Senior police will plunge into icy ocean water this weekend at Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie to raise money for a good cause.
The Polar Plunge, organised by the Law Enforcement Torch Run, sees participants plunge, leap and jump into icy water at 26 locations across Australia between Saturday 4 July 2026 and Sunday 30 August 2026.
Law Enforcement Torch Run is a charity made up of members of the NSW Police Force and other law enforcement agencies. Through events such as the Polar Plunge, it raises funds and awareness for Special Olympics Australia and its athletes.
At 9am tomorrow (Saturday 8 August 2026), a plunge will be held at Jetty Beach in Coffs Harbour, followed by a plunge at Westport Jetty in Port Macquarie at 10am on Sunday (9 August 2026).
Both events will begin with a brief torch run and opening ceremony, followed by the plunge.
Participants from the NSW Police Force, emergency services, community and justice agencies, Special Olympics clubs, individuals and corporate partners will take part in the plunge.
Coffs-Clarence Police District Commander, Acting Superintendent Mitch Dubojski, will be among those braving the cold water in Coffs Harbour.
"The Polar Plunge is a great reminder of what can be achieved when people come together behind a common cause," A/Supt Dubojski said.
"Special Olympics Australia provides athletes with opportunities to develop skills, achieve personal goals and be part of a supportive sporting community, and we are proud to contribute to that mission."
"Events like this are about much more than jumping into cold water. They are about raising awareness and demonstrating the strong connection between police and the communities we serve."
Mid North Coast Police District Commander, Superintendent Shane Cribb APM, will be taking the plunge in Port Macquarie on Sunday.
"The Polar Plunge is one of those events that brings out the very best in our community, with people from all walks of life coming together to support Special Olympics Australia and its athletes," Supt Cribb said.
"It takes a bit of courage to jump into cold water, but the challenges faced by many athletes every day are far greater. Taking part is a simple way to show our support and help make a real difference."
"We are proud to stand alongside our emergency service partners, local organisations and community members to raise awareness and funds for such an important cause."
Law Enforcement Torch Run President, Scott Whyte APM, said community support along the Mid North and Coffs Coasts had once again been outstanding.
"The enthusiasm and generosity shown by communities continues to amaze us, with strong support for this year's Polar Plunge events," Mr Whyte said.
"Every registration and donation helps Special Olympics Australia provide sporting opportunities, training and support for athletes with intellectual disability and autism."
"With the Special Olympics Australia National Games set to take place in Melbourne this October, fundraising events like these play an important role in helping athletes prepare for and participate in this milestone event."
"Whether people are taking the plunge, volunteering their time or cheering from the shoreline, they are helping create a more inclusive community where everyone has the chance to succeed through sport."
More than 110 people have registered to take the plunge this weekend, raising more than $26,000 for Special Olympics athletes.
Register or donate online at: https://include.specialolympics.com.au/polar-plunge
