More than 200 people braved the chilly waters of Cunningham Arm for the now annual Winter Solstice Sunrise Swim last Saturday as part of the East Gippsland Winter Festival.
The fourth annual winter festival kicked off last Friday evening with an official opening at the Slipway Sheds, including pop-up food and drink options and art displays, but it was the first morning of the festival which had people embracing the winter chill.
Those taking part in the plunge ranged in age from school children to the elderly, a small group lasting almost an hour in water around the 14 degree mark, which was arguably warmer than the outside air temperature in the early hours of Saturday morning.
The event was organised by the team at Gippsland Jersey, with the message to promote mental health and wellbeing.
Cold plunging has also become ever popular in recent times with it believed to be linked to better physical health from enhanced immunity to improved blood circulation and better sleep.
Lakes Entrance Coastguard provided water safety for the event, helping treat one person for mild hyperthermia.
IMAGE: The first of the brave cold plungers floating in Cunningham Arm.
