The swimmers at last year’s event
Brave – or foolhardy – swimmers (depending on your point of view) are preparing to take the plunge when the Walrus Swim returns to the OceanaGold Waihi Polishing Ponds on 30 July, promising a mid-winter test of nerve and humour. The swim is a rare opportunity for participants to experience a familiar part of the mine from a very different perspective.
The annual event, known for its cold water, good-natured rivalry and distinctly local flavour, will see staff and contractor competitors tackle the pond in what has become one of the Waihi gold mine’s more unusual activities. While the 110-metre distance may be modest, the temperature is expected to provide the real challenge. Past events have featured plenty of encouragement from spectating staff, light-hearted prizes and the awarding of the coveted Walrus Trophy.
Held rain or fine, organisers say the event is as much about fun as it is about competition. The Polishing Ponds are part of the site’s water-treatment system, where treated water is held and monitored and a final check completed before controlled release into the Ohinemuri River.
The Great Walrus Race Trophy
This year is special as the Water Treatment Plant is undergoing a significant upgrade and capacity increase as part of the Waihi North Project. Staff and contractors working on that project have been encouraged to swap their overalls for swimming togs and check out the ‘downstream aspects’ of their work.
Bring a sense of humour, a towel and a strong tolerance for chilly water. Supporting staff have been encouraged to line the pond, cheer on the swimmers, and add to the atmosphere as the latest group of ‘walruses’ takes to the pond.
