The fun of good-natured fines given out by fellow members of the Tuggerah Tuffs Winter Swimming Club has all added up over the years to more than $51,000 donated to the Guide Dogs NSW/ACT.
Club Secretary, Garry Hansford, says that every Sunday after their swim they have a “fine session” where club members are fined for things they have said or done.
“And we never let the truth get in the way of a good story at these fine sessions,” he said.
Last Sunday, August 7, the club members donated another $1,000 in their continuing support of the Guide Dogs.
Club President, John Sleeman, presented the cheque to Angela Allen who went along to the swim meet with guide dog Piper.
Tuggerah Tuffs was formed in 1967 by members of local surf clubs and has grown since then to a membership of about 70 from primary school aged boys to swimmers in their 80s.
They compete at the Grant McBride Ocean Baths in The Entrance every Sunday from 9am, starting on the first Sunday in May until the second Sunday in September.
“In many ways it’s like a men’s shed of swimming,” Hansford said.
“We compete in events including 100m, 30m and 50m and our races are handicapped so that aged and swimming ability are equalised by our handicappers.
“Every swimmer has the chance to win a race.
“Our aim is to promote positive health outcomes among our members,” Hansford said.
Sue Murray