Rip Swim Event Confirmed for Saturday
The Rip Swim, a 3.5-kilometre open-water crossing from Point Nepean to Point Lonsdale, is scheduled to proceed this Saturday with over 70 participants. The event received a permit from Parks Victoria following a significant incident in April of the previous year that prompted a thorough safety review.
Previous Incident Spurs Safety Review
Last April, a training camp for The Rip Swim saw 17 swimmers swept into Bass Strait. Swimmer Sarah Hingston was rescued over three kilometres from land, while Jane Betts and Carrie Thomas were also among those rescued by surf life savers and a helicopter.
Participants involved described the experience as traumatic and highlighted the dangers of the water.
An investigation into the incident was conducted by Safe Transport Victoria (STV). Event organizer Grant Siedle stated that the investigation closed with a caution and that all recommendations to strengthen safety systems have been implemented. STV subsequently published clear guidelines for events at Port Phillip Heads and confirmed the organizer met the conditions for a permit, based on improved safety measures independently reviewed by an accredited risk consultant.
Enhanced Safety Protocols Implemented
Grant Siedle reported implementing a "most robust safety operation to date" for the upcoming swim. This comprehensive plan includes:
- 11 rescue boats
- Several jet-skis
- Nine kayakers
- A large emergency-management vessel equipped with a paramedic
Siedle emphasized that his company has complied with new safety protocols imposed by various government agencies and engaged an independent risk expert to ensure participant safety.
Concerns and Calls for Public Transparency
Despite the confirmed event, some individuals involved in last year's incident expressed reservations. Sarah Hingston noted mixed emotions, acknowledging past positive experiences but stressing the need to take the dangers seriously. Jane Betts indicated she would be unlikely to swim The Rip again without significant evidence of improved safety protocols.
Borough of Queenscliffe Deputy Mayor Di Rule called for the Safe Transport Victoria report to be made public, stating that the council has been denied access to its findings.
Rule observed the mass rescue last year and cited other instances of swimmers being swept off course or suffering hypothermia, expressing anxiety about the event proceeding.
The Rip: A Treacherous Challenge
The Rip, located at the entrance to Port Phillip Bay, is renowned for its strong tides and is one of the world's busiest shipping channels. Historically, it has claimed lives, including three army commandos in 1960, and is noted for having sunk over 30 vessels in the past two centuries. All participants in The Rip Swim are required to be experienced ocean swimmers capable of completing three kilometres in under 54 minutes individually.