It feels like just yesterday we were a small group of friends huddled together on a crisp June morning in 2013, hearts pounding with nervous excitement as we embarked on our first sunrise swim. Our founder, Alistair, had a vision to create a weekly ritual centered around the a soft sand run, a swim and coffee. He had missed the ocean during his time in the UK, and upon returning to Bondi, he made sure to reignite that connection. Every Friday at 6:15 am, rain, hail, or shine, we’d meet for a soft sand run followed by an ocean swim and coffee.
Fast forward to today, and our little group of five has blossomed into a vibrant community of over 1,000 ocean-obsessed enthusiasts. We’ve grown, but our core values remain the same: connection, community, and a shared love for the salty embrace of the ocean. We still meet every Friday at the North Bondi ramp at 6:15 am. We start with two laps of soft sand, then plunge into the ocean for a leisurely 1.6km swim. It’s not about speed or competition; it’s about savoring the experience, supporting each other, and celebrating those simple pleasures in life that we may often overlook.
For me, the Salties had always represented so much more than just a swim club. It’s my weekly reset button, a chance to slow down, breathe deeply and find solace in the rhythm of the waves. An ocean swim is a place where my worries fade and are replaced by a sense of calm, clarity and importantly gratefulness. It’s literally impossible to arrive back at the North Bondi shore post swim and not feel grateful.
Our philosophy is simple: “We love to get salty.” We believe that everyone deserves to experience the infamous post salt high.
As we look to the future, our vision remains steadfast: to preserve the essence of the Salties, to continue fostering a welcoming and inclusive community, and to share the magic of ocean swimming with generations to come.
Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just dipping your toes in the ocean for the first time, you’re welcome to join us! Experience the camaraderie, the challenge, and the pure joy of getting salty.
