Club to Club

In 1872, the schooner Cito was driven onto the sands of the mid-north coast during a ferocious gale, a reminder of the raw power that sailors—and now swimmers—have long navigated along this stretch of New South Wales. Today, the coastline remains as untamed as ever, but the challenge has shifted from shipwreck to sporting achievement with the annual Club to Club swim. Connecting the surf lifesaving strongholds of Forster and Cape Hawke, this event transforms the rugged transit between two headlands into a 3.8km marathon of endurance. Swimmers depart from the base of the dramatic cliffs, pushing through open water before navigating the final stretch toward the sheltered sands of the main beach.

The conditions and the coast

The 3.8km route is a true point-to-point test, tracing the shoreline where deep-water swells often meet the shallower, shifting sandbars of the bay. While the course benefits from the natural protection of the headland, the open-sea sections require a steady rhythm to manage the coastal drift. It is not uncommon for local marine life, including pods of dolphins, to make appearances, adding a wild element to the swim. For those stepping up from shorter distances, the event offers a 500m and a 250m loop, both set in the calmer, north-facing waters directly in front of the Forster SLSC. These shorter races provide a controlled introduction to the ocean, allowing beginners to experience the same environment while staying within the well-monitored perimeter of the club’s patrol zone.

Race day logistics

Organized by the Cape Hawke SLSC, the event is scheduled for March 29, 2026, taking advantage of the late-summer water temperatures that remain favorable for long-distance efforts. The logistics are designed to emphasize the point-to-point nature of the swim, with the start line situated far enough from the finish to offer a genuine sense of expedition. Registration remains flexible, with on-the-day entries accepted for those who decide to test their endurance at the last minute. This accessibility, combined with the strong community atmosphere of the surf clubs, makes it a staple for swimmers who value a straightforward, no-nonsense race over a highly commercialized spectacle. Whether you are a local or traveling from out of state, the atmosphere on the sand is defined by the camaraderie of the surf lifesaving movement, where seasoned competitors and juniors share the same start line.