Community Spirit Shines at World Oceans Day 2025

On June 8, over 450 ocean lovers came together at Mona Vale Beach to celebrate World Oceans Day and take part in the Janice Mason Memorial Swim. It was a heartwarming morning of connection, courage, and care for our coast.

Hosted by Friends of Bongin Bongin Bay alongside Ocean Swims and Mona Vale SLSC, the event began with a powerful Welcome to Country by Uncle Neil Evers and didgeridoo by Matt James. Local MP Jacqui Scruby officially started the race, with MCs Pia Dorer and the Ocean Swims team guiding the morning.

Registered swimmers travelled from across Sydney to embrace the winter water and experience the magic of Bongin Bongin Bay. With calm conditions and water temps around 19–20°C, many reported seeing fish, stingrays, and other marine life — a beautiful reminder of what we’re working to protect.

Rowan Mason, daughter of beloved Dawn Busters swimmer Janice Mason, presented the awards in her mother’s honour — a touching tribute to a life lived in and for the ocean.

Across the sand, our education and advocacy tent, beach tunes, and kids’ activities kept spirits high. It was a true celebration of community, biodiversity, and the power of coming together for something bigger than ourselves.

Later that day, some of our attendees continued the ocean celebration at Collaroy Cinema with a screening of David Attenborough’s Ocean, aligning passion with purpose and leaving everyone feeling inspired.

We plan to continue this annual event and draw even more visitors next year — to swim, connect, and celebrate the beauty of Bongin Bongin Bay.

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