Senior police will plunge into icy ocean water in Newcastle today 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.
One of the plunges will be held at Merewether Ocean Baths this morning (Sunday 2 August 2026). The event starts with a brief torch run and opening ceremony at 9.15am, followed by the plunge at 10am.
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.
Northern Region Commander, Assistant Commissioner David Waddell APM, will be among those braving the cold water.
"The Polar Plunge is a fantastic opportunity for police and our community partners to come together and support the incredible athletes of Special Olympics Australia," Assistant Commissioner Waddell said.
"Every dollar raised helps provide opportunities for people with intellectual disability and autism to participate in sport, build confidence and create lifelong friendships."
"While the water might be cold, the community spirit behind this event is incredibly strong, and we are proud to once again get behind such an important cause."
The Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley said the Special Olympics showcased policing at its very best.
"Policing is about more than enforcing the law – it's about earning trust, building relationships and showing up for your community which is what today is all about," Minister Catley said.
"Nowhere is the Australian spirit more alive than on days like today, when people from every walk of life come together in support of an important cause.
"Our police are trained to approach people living with intellectual disability or autism with compassion and understanding. Those skills matter every day on the job and they're also what make events like the Special Olympics so special.
"I'm incredibly proud of the officers who give their time to support this event because it shows the kind of police force we have in the Hunter."
Law Enforcement Torch Run President, Scott Whyte APM, said community support in Newcastle had once again been outstanding.
"We've had more than 150 people register to take the plunge today, and thanks to the generosity of the Newcastle community we've already raised more than $37,000 for Special Olympics athletes," Mr Whyte said.
"The Newcastle event is organised by the local Special Olympics club, with funds raised helping support local programs and athletes throughout the region."
"This year is especially significant, with the Special Olympics Australia National Games being held in Melbourne in October. Many of the athletes selected to represent New South Wales will benefit from the funds raised through today's Polar Plunge."
"Seeing so many people step up, brave the cold and support inclusion through sport is what makes this event so special."
People are encouraged to register or donate online at: https://include.specialolympics.com.au/polar-plunge
