The Tony Ryan Memorial Swim is one of those swims that feels good from the moment you arrive. Set in beautiful Lady Bay in Warrnambool, it blends calm ocean swimming with big heart and genuine country hospitality. It’s part of the much-loved Shipwreck Coast Swim Series and has earned its place as a favourite on the south-west Victorian calendar.

This swim honours local ocean swimming legend Tony Ryan and the values he stood for, community, encouragement, and a love of the water. That spirit carries through the whole morning. You’ll find a relaxed, welcoming vibe, familiar faces from the series, and plenty of first-timers dipping their toes into ocean swimming in a supportive environment.

With two distances on offer, the event suits a wide range of swimmers. If you’re new to ocean swimming, the shorter course is approachable and confidence-boosting. If you’re chasing a solid hit-out, the longer course delivers a satisfying swim in scenic conditions without feeling overwhelming.

What really sets this event apart is what happens out of the water. Locals line the shore, volunteers cheer loudly, and the surf club fires up a classic post-swim BBQ. It’s the kind of morning where the swim is just the start and the conversations afterwards are half the reason you come back year after year.