The LifeSaving Energy Big swim series for 2008 was a huge success. Four swims were held, each of 7km, and a total of $60000 was made. With the support of Bega Valley and Eurobodalla councils (dollar for dollar funding with community money for renewable energy for surf clubs) we will have 6 surf clubs set up with renewable energy, and wind turbines on 2 schools. Whilst this may not do a huge amount to reduce emissions on its own, it is certainly changing attitudes. The communities of SE NSW have strongly supported this campaign, and people have enjoyed doing something so positive about climate change.
The LifeSaving Energy Big Swim series will run again next year. We again plan to hold the Jindabyne, Narooma, Moruya River and Bega River Big Swims. The money made in next years swims will probably be directed towards our community owned solar farms.
We plan a couple of extra swims, depending on enthusiasm. There will be a 7km swim in the Brogo Dam to raise money for the Anglican Church in Bega. We also plan a swim from Merimbula wharf to the Pambula surf club to raise money for a wind turbine for the Pambula surf club.
All going well, we might finish off the 2009 season with a swim in Lake Burley Griffin to raise money for solar panels for The Lodge. That event will depend on generating some enthusiasm in Canberra.
Matthew Nott
Photos of all the 2008 swims can be seen in the Gallery section.