The Swimming NSW 2.5km Classic heads to Speers Point Jetty, Lake Macquarie, offering swimmers the opportunity to race in the calm waters of one of the state’s premier open water destinations. Whether you’re taking on your first open water event or building towards bigger goals, this welcoming event provides the perfect opportunity to test yourself in a safe and enjoyable environment.
Designed for swimmers of all abilities, the accurately measured 2.5km course allows experienced competitors to chase a personal best, while newcomers can enjoy a supportive introduction to open water swimming in a stunning natural setting.
Friends, family and supporters can soak up the atmosphere from the open parklands surrounding the course, with excellent viewing opportunities to cheer swimmers on throughout the event. Combined with the vibrant community feel and picturesque lakeside location, it’s an event that offers just as much enjoyment onshore as it does in the water.
Whether you’re racing, supporting or simply looking for a great day out by the lake, the Swimming NSW 2.5km Classic promises an unforgettable open water experience.
Speers Point Jetty, Lake Macquarie, provides a stunning setting for open water swimming, with the course taking place in the calm waters of Lake Macquarie. The lake is a popular destination for swimming and a range of water-based activities, offering a scenic and welcoming environment for swimmers of all abilities.
Lake Macquarie offers calm, sheltered conditions around Speers Point, with generally light winds and minimal swell. Late November water temperatures typically sit around 20–21°C, providing cool but comfortable conditions for an open water swim. Whether you’re taking on your first open water swim or chasing your next personal best, Speers Point offers a fantastic setting to get in the water and enjoy the challenge.
2.5km Classic – Event Cut-Off Times
For the safety of all participants, the following cut-off times apply to the 2.5km Classic:
Any swimmer who does not pass the 1.25km point within 30 minutes will be withdrawn from the event and escorted from the water by the Water Safety Team. The swimmer must then report to the Clerk of the Course.
Any swimmer who does not complete the 2.5km course within 60 minutes will also be withdrawn from the event and escorted from the water by the Water Safety Team, before reporting to the Clerk of the Course.
By entering the event, all participants agree to comply with the published event cut-off times and directions from event officials and the Water Safety Team.
2.5km Classic – Event Cut-Off Times
For the safety of all participants, the following cut-off times apply to the 2.5km Classic:
Any swimmer who does not pass the 1.25km point within 30 minutes will be withdrawn from the event and escorted from the water by the Water Safety Team. The swimmer must then report to the Clerk of the Course.
Any swimmer who does not complete the 2.5km course within 60 minutes will also be withdrawn from the event and escorted from the water by the Water Safety Team, before reporting to the Clerk of the Course.
By entering the event, all participants agree to comply with the published event cut-off times and directions from event officials and the Water Safety Team.
10:15-11:15 am – Registration (Men)
10:15-11:30 am – Registration (Women)
11:45 am – Swim start (Men)
12:00 pm – Swim start (Women)
Up The Ante: 2km Training Program
Step up in distance with this training program designed to build you up & guide you all the way to the finish. Learn more
Learn online with the OceanFit Academy or join a hands-on ocean clinic to improve your surf and open water skills.
Speers Point Jetty, Lake Macquarie, is located approximately 20 minutes from Newcastle CBD and around 2 hours from Sydney, making it an accessible destination for swimmers travelling from across the region. Driving is the most convenient option, with parking available in the surrounding Speers Point Park precinct.
The event precinct provides easy access to the lake and plenty of open space for swimmers and supporters. Speers Point Park offers a range of amenities nearby, including toilets, picnic areas, playgrounds and pathways, while the lakeside setting provides a relaxed environment for family and friends to enjoy the event.
Make the most of your day at Speers Point Jetty and soak up the atmosphere at our event hub. Between swims, check out the event merchandise, grab a bite from the local club BBQ, and visit the Dr Hydrate pop-up for a refreshing hydration boost.
Set among the open spaces of Speers Point Park, the event hub will give swimmers, families and supporters plenty of room to relax, refuel and enjoy the lakeside atmosphere throughout the day. Whether you’re racing, cheering from the sidelines or enjoying the day with family and friends, there’s plenty to see and do between swims.
Pre-event: Use the event support contact form for all event queries.
Event day: For support on the day of the event, talk to an event official. Urgent event updates will be communicated via SMS. If you don’t hear from us, the event is on as and where scheduled.
Transfers: You can transfer yourself to a different distance or transfer your entry to another person via your Race Roster dashboard up until 12 pm the day prior to the event. Fees may apply. Visit your dashboard
Refunds: View the event’s withdrawl and cancellation policies.
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