Tucked away on the Northern Beaches of Sydney is Bilgola Beach -one of the smallest and most picturesque beaches in the Sydney area -and home to one of the more challenging swims of the Pittwater Ocean Swim Series.

Despite its bucolic setting, the swell is tricky, reflected in the Guringai Aboriginal meaning for the original place name ‘Belgoula’ of ‘swirling waters’. But fear not -alongside this reputation, another reputation is the water safety offered by Bilgola SLSC for the 500M and 1500M swims on the day which is second to none.

The Blackmores Billy Swim, affectionately known as the ‘Billy’, has two different swims starting an hour apart, 500m and 1.5km and the more daring of swimmers can certainly try to complete both.

The event is a major fundraiser for Bilgola Surf Life Saving Club, supporting patrol activities and equipment acquisition throughout the season. Your entry fees help keep Bilgola Beach safe.

Blackmores is once again the major sponsor, with Harris Farm supplying fruit for after swim replenishment.

While you’re in Bilgola, make a day of it and explore the northern tip of the beaches.