Clontarf Baths

"Don't grow up too quickly, lest you forget how much you love the beach." - Michelle Held

A Splosh Tale - Part Two

The splosh hurried over their hill in a convoy of vehicles and in what looked like a scene from keystone cops. They reversed, squeezed, u turned, (nothing illegal of course) changed cars three times and eventually arrived at their destination, in a very large ticketed car park.

By this stage, the temperature had arisen to a "Bombayesque 30c" Ghandi noted, through a foggy haze in her mind and clearly in an altered state (well she had removed her now familiar stripey towel and shed a few kilos).

Cousteau mindful of this sudden transformation in size, pointed to not only a kiosk, a restaurant and o heaven, a floating Mr Whippy!!! "Could this be true are we in paradise?' fantasised Ghandi as she disappeared off to survey the gastronomic options.

Meanwhile Cousteau considered all before her. The water at Clontarf was clear with a sandy bottom and a small sandy beach. At high tide the water spilt over the top of the wooden surrounds in a cleansing fashion. Surrounded by closely moored yachts on three sides and glorious parklands on the other, this pool was delightful. This is a pool for families to enjoy, made clear by the squeals of delight
( that was just Obi-Wan) as children played with every water craft imaginable.

The splosh was in awe, as they took in everything around them. It was truly a page from "Alice in Wonderland" as they marvelled at the spit bridge opening majestically to wave a parade of super boats and yachts through. The big oak trees decorated in extraordinary colour for family parties and picnics. Balloons darting in every direction farting their way to the sky and then descending as psychedelic snow and the piece de resistance, gigantic whippy ice creams the size of mount Everest!!!!

Obi-Wan and Cousteau ambled aimlessly through the magical park, where they spied Ghandi, perched like the 'mad hatter' at a silver service service tea party, resplendent in her usual uniform of stripey towel and cozzies. Clonnies Restaurant was situated smack in the middle of the action, surveying all before it. The view was magnificent, the service excellent and the food unbelievable good value. It appears that despite all the finery at the table there was no designated dress code and all were welcome to partake the ambiance. It was brilliant to be able to relax and absorb the fantastical atmosphere that was Clontarf Baths.

Obi-Wan thought, "What a top morning! What is the name of that bird, singing?"
Cousteau and Ghandi thought, "Really??? she is besotted by birds!!!"

Ghandi thought, "What a top morning! I can't eat anymore!"
Cousteau and Obi-Wan thought, "Really???? Thats not possible."

Cousteau thought, "What a top morning! What a brilliant idea!"
Obi-Wan and Ghandi thought, "Really???? Yeh ok she is a very good LEADER."

An enchanting experience was had by all and so they reluctantly took their leave of wonderland and the blogger smiled inwardly to herself!

Splosh Rating a fantastical ****

Cousteau grinning like a Cheshire cat at the Madhatter's breakfast!

Forty Baskets Rock Pool

"How inappropriate to call this planet Earth when it is quite clearly Ocean." - Arthur C. Clarke

A Splosh Tale - Part One.

Sunday started like any other for the splosh, but it was to become a day of great contemplation. It was a confronting day of sorts, as it was the day that the splosh had read their blog biographies. Obi-Wan awoke and thought, "I don't talk about birds at the pool, I have absolutely no interest in them....I just love the Ocean." Strangely, Ghandi arose to a nagging feeling, "I do not think about food 24/7, I'm far to concerned with health and fitness, the blogger has entirely the wrong impression of me, I just love the Ocean." While, Cousteau thought humbly, "Yes, I AM THE LEADER, I am omnipotent and I will select the excursion today! Oh and I love the Ocean too (coz thats what all Oceanophiliacs love!)" And so it came to pass that the splosh headed off, somewhat reluctantly, to two different destinations without breakfast.

Forty Baskets is an extremely pretty local secret situated in North Harbour looking out towards Fairlight and Manly. The access is a little tricky and the trio parked their car in a residential street above the pool, where a steep footpath of approx 50-60 steps meanders down to the pool. A highly invigorated Cousteau bounded down to the pool with ease, while Obi-Wan and Ghandi wandered about the condition of their hip and knees respectively. Obi-Wan thought, "How the hell am I going to get back up these stairs, in one piece?"..... "I'm bloody starving," Ghandi responded telepathically, of course, because they were breathless. In her wise manner Obi-Wan nodded agreement and they tumbled down the path trying to catch Cousteau...their LEADER.

Forty baskets was a treat with the water temp approx 20c and clear. The splosh encountered large fish, a very small amount of debris, which is fairly predictable considering its location and 1 'sea snake'. Wait a minute, what did you say? Well it wasn't actually a snake, on reflection it appears that Ghandi was hallucinating and it was in fact a reed. This was confirmed by Obi-Wan, who, eager to try her new super dooper anti-fog googles, duck dived to the bottom and retrieved for all to see. "I could really fancy a bit of roast duck right know" dreamt Ghandi.

"I hope that Ghandi hasn't got so hungry that she has resorted to drinking her pee, 'coz that causes hallucinations you know, thought Obi-Wan so powerfully that Cousteau responded "Roger that!" from the depths of the 50m square pool.

With that thought firmly in her mind Cousteau declared it was time to move to the next pool, as only a leader would do:) The open air shower sat quaintly on the boardwalk that meanders back to Balgowlah and the water was totally refreshing in the 26c early morning heat.

As Obi-Wan looked up the 'stairway to heaven' she pondered the distinct lack of birds around the water, but was relieved to find them nesting in the beautiful old Norfolk pines lining the boardwalk. Relieved she turned her mind to the arduous task ahead. Cousteau, took charge and led the way.....(you know the drill) as a leader does. It occurred to Obi-Wan that, if she didn't drop dead, that this excercise was a good heart stress test and far less expensive than going to the doctor.  While Ghandi thought "would it really be so bad if, hypothetically speaking, someone was hungry they could eat their fellow sploshes and if so, what would they taste like?'

.....to be continued.........

Splosh Rating ***1/2

"Stairway to heaven"

Add caption

Obi's Mantra

Sea Fever by John Masefield

• 

I must go down to the seas again, to the lonely sea and the sky,

And all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by,

And the wheel's kick and the wind's song and the white sail's shaking,

And a grey mist on the sea's face, and a grey dawn breaking.

I must go down to the seas again, for the call of the running tide

Is a wild call and a clear call that may not be denied;

And all I ask is a windy day with the white clouds flying,

And the flung spray and the blown spume, and the sea-gulls crying.

I must go down to the seas again, to the vagrant gypsy life,

To the gull's way and the whale's way, where the wind's like a whetted knife;

And all I ask is a merry yarn from a laughing fellow-rover,

And quiet sleep and a sweet dream when the long trick's over.

Bilgola Beach Rock Pool

“Hark, now hear the sailors cry / smell the sea, and feel the sky / let your soul & spirit fly, into the mystic.” -Van Morrison

14-12-2012, 12.30pm - this time Cousteu went AWOL and Obi-Wan and Ghandi were left with the very difficult task of appraising one of their local haunts. Armed with local knowledge we can tell you that Bilgola Beach is a secluded area which is only affected by residential traffic. It is a beautiful spot and on this day, like so many others, it reminded the splosh a little of Positano, Italy as we gazed up from the rock pool to the houses nestled in the cliffs above. The Pool and its surrounding environment work to serve each other architecturally, which establishes an overall aesthetic that is pleasing to the eye and which sets a specific tone for the area.

On this day the water was 21c and the outside temperature a balmy 26c. The water was crystal and the pool in well maintained condition with some weed from the high tide. There is a seating area running alongside the pool, however most of the congregating occurs at the only cafe/kiosk that serves the beach. The little enclave has a beautifully manicured SLSC, which has open air showers and more recently the change facilities have been refurbished to a standard that quite frankly Obi-Wan and Ghandi would like to reside in (without their off spring preferably). The change rooms are found in a timber and sandstone building, which again blends into the environment.

Transport access to the beach is by car only where there is ticketed parking. The nearest bus service stops at either Newport or Avalon situated high on the hill, north and south of Bilgola Beach...so it would be a slow camel ride from there! The limited access probably accounts for the fact that most of the week this rock pool is frequented by locals and would attribute to the very relaxed, friendly atmosphere generally. Disabled access.

Splosh Rating ****


Link for Bilgola Beach virtual tour.
http://panedia.com/virtualtour/content/5424

The swish new amenities block.

Obi-Wan ordering coffee from Sants

Cafe proprietor, Anthony preparing for xmas at the beach.

Collaroy Rock Pool

  “The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.” – Jacques Yves Cousteau

For some unknown reason Ghandi arose early (a very rare occurrence) and cajoled Cousteau and Obi-Wan to race off to the pool. What an omen this turned out to be, the splosh were greeted with a magnificent high tide (their fav) crashing over the pools edge. While Cousteau and Obi-Wan went into the 50m lap pool, Ghandi discovered a 25 m wade pool which sloped towards the ocean directly in the path of the breaking waves. This was a day when we could swim, exercise and surf it was tremendous. The pool hugs the rock shelf and winds around from Collaroy where there is access to Fisherman's Beach. Facing eastwards out towards the ocean it feels as if you are a world away from everything. There was a cold current running that day of 18c but the original pool was very well maintained and the water, crystal clear (Dee Why take note). The same views as Narrabeen are mirrored back up from Collaroy to Narrabeen and equally picturesque.

There are disabled facilities, child's equipment area, small park, totally refurbished changing facilities in the SLSC building and open showers poolside. Although this beach is very close to the main road it feels well away from the hustle and bustle. It is a lovely surprise.

Many eating establishments serve the area but we chose a beachfront cafe which sadly didn't live up to expectation. That said nothing could ruin our enthusiasm for a really eye opening excursion!

Splosh Rating ****

Dee Why Rock Pool

“The sea will grant each man new hope, and sleep will bring dreams of home.” Christopher Columbus

Dee Why Rock Pool was a bit of a disappointment to the Splosh when they visited on 6-12-2012. The Dee Why Pool and surrounding beach has recently undergone a massive transformation, which frankly left the splosh cold. While the surrounding area includes a well equipped child's play area, the rest of the improvements seem to be mainly concrete. Architecturally it is a disappointment, massive concrete blocks in the form of steps run the length of the beach and pool areas, which detract aesthetically from the environment. As if to compensate for the unnavigable, overly wide steps, there is an overkill in ramps and steel handrails to accommodate prams, disabled and the elderly. The materials appear totally incongruous with the natural environment and may I say, hot! In amongst their flurry of activity to make this area hip and upmarket they have forgotten the main element for sunseekers....shade, ahhhh yes! In this day and age an unthinkable faux pas by the council.

Anyway the review of the pool actual is not much better. There is a 50m pool and a 15m shallow pool. The pool floor was covered in algae and the old artificial concrete floor uneven (easy to stub ones toe). The water quality was relatively clear although weedy, with a water temperature of 19c.  The council clearly avoided any relevant maintenance for the rock pool in their refurbishment budget which in this case is a shame. The change amenities were average although there were plenty of open air showers. Despite the day only being a mild 23c with a southerly blow, the pool deck surround of grandstand style concrete steps, felt very hot and unnatural. The splosh felt as uncomfortable as a penguin in a microwave!

It has to be said that the view was spectacular and the main street is a hubbub of activity with a multitude of food outlets, cafes and restaurants to choose from. There is a local bus service and car parking is ticketed. Your best bet is to park in the Surf Life Saving Car Park behind the surf club but this is also ticketed.

Splosh Rating **1/2

Balmoral Baths at Balmoral Beach

“My soul is full of longing for the secrets of the sea, and the heart of the great ocean sends a thrilling pulse through me.” – Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

On the 5-12-2012, a gorgeous sunny 29c with gentle wind from the west prevailed and Cousteau headed off on another lone adventure, this time to the Balmoral Baths. Although this is a popular spot for sun seekers, the Baths were relatively quiet. Balmoral is a large netted pool with a sandy bottom, 8 lanes for lappers and serviced with a large sand beach area. Architecturally there is an attractive board walk around the netted area of the pool. It was high tide and 19c with very clean water. The change rooms showers and toilets were very clean and well maintained.

Numerous cafes and restaurants service the area with a convenient kiosk at the pool. The pool environment is aesthetically pleasing surrounded by reserve, beach promenade and extensive beach front, which is astonishingly beautiful. This is a fairly sedate beach which is quite sheltered and faces the middle harbour. But is particularly popular during weekends and school holidays.

There is a bus service and also limited ticketed car parking beside the beachfront. There is also pram and disabled access available. A popular spot for family picnics and lazy days at the beach:)

Splosh Rating ****

 

Mermaids Pool at Fairy Bower

“We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch – we are going back from whence we came…” – John F. Kennedy

OOOO what a day, what a day we had!! The 4-12-2012 was greeted with a sunny 28c, as the Splosh arose early and migrated towards the sights and sounds of that growing metropolis - Manly. The mermaid pool is a little treasure tucked halfway between Manly and Shelley Beaches. There is a spectacular ocean walkway that runs between the two beaches and the mermaid pool can be accessed from either end. There are several bus and ferry services to Manly but for the car enthusiasts there is 2hr parking at Manly and Shelley beach has a ticketed car park. There is limited parking in the small streets of residential Fairy Bower running behind the pool.

The water temperature was 20c on an incoming, mid tide. This is a boutique pool which is in authentic condition, carved from the immediate natural rock shelf. It is an irregular shape pool which is 25m at its longest point but had plenty of room for the splosh to wallow. The water was crystal clear with a natural growth of light moss on the floor of the shallow end. Locals advised that this is a consequence of the tidal flow across the rock shelf and that it is cleaned away regularly. The pool has received a beautification in the form of 2 mermaid sculptures and a shower built into the rock ledge. Change amenities are available at both Manly and Shelley beach with a small convenience next to the pool. The pool itself is secluded, protected and picturesque, surrounded by 'Mediterranean' water. The views to Manly, Shelley and all the way up the coast to Curly beaches are breathtaking.

A shipping lane of surf boards, paddle boards, snorkelers and swimmers moved in a constant flow to and from Manly Beach. Cousteau wanted more exercise so she jumped into the sea and swam off to Shelley beach, while Obi-Wan was enticed into the ocean after lunch to cool down (see why below).

As the day wore on there were increasing tourists mingled with locals enjoying the walking track.
We adjourned for breakfast to The Fairy Bower Restaurant situated beside the pool. The white and blue buildings echoed long lost memories of the Greek islands and the mirage was complete when the ridiculously beautiful waiters attended to our every need. The splosh sighed collectively and definately needed to cool off!!! Excellent food, excellent service.

I wouldn't be at all surprised if the pool contained an elixir of youth, as beautiful people were commonplace and celebrity spotting became a game. It has to be said that the ambiance of the environment was sooo inviting that the splosh didn't even wake from their revery, as a statuesque Jen Hawkins, immaculately attired in crisp linen suit, sat on the table beside them (by contrast the splosh looked like three very colourful comfy sofas, wrapped in their stripey towels covering their overly generous bodies). It is true she may have challenged for the waiters attention for but a second....but on this day, on this beach, in this weather, with this food and this view we could afford to be charitable and spread the love around!!!!! Ghandi, who has a way with words, eloquently voiced their pleasure when she said and I quote "aaahhhhhh lets do that again, sometime!".


Splosh Rating ****1/2

Clifton Gardens

“Every time we walk along a beach some ancient urge disturbs us so that we find ourselves shedding shoes and garments or scavenging among seaweed and whitened timbers like the homesick refugees of a long war.” – Loren Eiseley

A scorching hot and sunny Sunday witnessed Cousteau on a lone and very sedate adventure to Clifton Gardens. Unfortunately she reports that the day proceeded to go downhill from there. The area is accessed by a bus service from Wynyard or by car, however the parking is very tight and on a popular Sunday, such as this, it was a nightmare. The popularity of the area is more due to the fabulous child play equipment area and it's surrounding park, than for the pool facilities. The parkland is ideal for a picnic, serviced by a Mr Whippy (yay), a coffee shop and Ripples Restaurant located up the steps at the northern end of the park.

On this day there was a receding tide and the water temperature was 19c. The pool was poorly maintained and a sign advised that there was no protection from sharks due to the holes in the shark netting. The water was muddy and weedy with visible pollution at the waters edge. There was a very small swell from the local boats and large fish in the water, however rubbish, weed, oysters and the like, congregated around the wooden support poles and the very jaded netting:(
The pool faces out towards the harbour and there is a pleasant city outlook. There are no change facilities except for a small toilet block in the park.

Cousteau noted that this would suit a snorkel more than a swim and maybe a brief dip after a family picnic. The highlight was definitely the play equipment!!

Splosh Rating * :(

North Narrabeen Rock Pool

 “To me the sea is a continual miracle; The fishes that swim–the rocks–the motion of the waves–the ships, with men in them, What stranger miracles are there?” – Walt Whitman

On the 24-11-2012 at 3PM the day was fine but overcast. Narrabeen has a large ticketed car park which generally copes with the amount of visitors and is also accessed by a 155 bus service running to Manly. On this day the water temperature was a brisk 19c on a medium tide, which was unusually murky. In defence of our regular haunt and dear old friend, later that day the rockpool was hit with a tide of red algae on its annual march southwards from the tropics. So we have to say that our local knowledge of the venue is that the water is generally clear with a beautiful view southwards towards Long Reef.

The pool structure consists of two 50m areas for lapping and leisure swimmers respectively. It faces eastwards to the ocean and has timber boardwalks around and through the centre of the pool. The changing amenities are clean and well maintained.

North Narrabeen has recently undergone a refurbishment and there is a new designated BBQ area (free gas) with shaded tables, which overlooks the Narrabeen Lagoon. The lagoon is an added bonus for a family day out, where fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding and a plethora of water sports including aligatoring, of course, take place. The caravan park across the road ensures a magic holiday spot!

This pool is also a very popular spot amongst the animal kingdom, which adds to the unique ambiance of the environment. The migratory whales, dolphins and the odd shark (no need to be alarmed) visit frequently on a sojourn from their trip up the coast and back. They play in the very popular, world famous Narrabeen right-hand surf break, which runs alongside the rocks surrounding the pool. The area is a domain for surfers and rock fisherman alike.

The pool is lit by a tall set of night lights and in previous years its generated warmth has attracted our compatriots in arms, a squadron of pelicans headed up by squadron leader Geoffrey (Rush). The significance of this highly-prized habitat is that it not only provides fabulous sleeping quarters but it is a tremendous vantage point, up and down the coastline, for food. Good enough reason for Ghandi to have a great affinity towards the pelicans! So it was with great concern that the Splosh found that the pelicans had been deposed this season and their kingdom has been subjected to a take over bid by the Gannets. It is true that Obi-Wan has been somewhat distracted by the magnificent plumage that the Gannets display during their drying ritual, but nothing can surpass the majestic fly past of the massive pelican hercules' of the sky. We salute you and your men Geoffrey and wish you Godspeed in the territorial war to regain your kingdom!

There is a cafe/restaurant beside the car park or alternatively a short walk to warriewood.

In the interests of fairness we have to rate the pool as we found it on the set excursion date and we reluctantly score lower than we would like.

Splosh Rating *** and 1/2

 * A note to fellow sploshee's Ghandi would like a lilo for Christmas to ride the incoming tide!You never know your luck in a big city, no harm in asking!

Gannet Kingdom

South Curl Curl Rock Pool

 “The sea! the sea! the open sea!, The blue, the fresh, the ever free!” – Bryan W. Procter

The Splosh migrated to South Curly on the 31-10-2012 at around 11AM. A light noreasterly accompanied a gloriously sunny 24c,  and our Oceanophiliacs were excited and in fine fettle! Their mood was ably assisted by the more than ample ticketed and Warringah Residents parking, located a short walk from the pool. Bus transport also services this beach area.
The pool was located at the south end of the beach in a beautifully protected sun trap with a scenic view running up the beach to North Curly. This is an ideal family spot as there is a toddlers pool and a large 50m pool, which is divided into both leisure and a lapping areas. It was high tide and the surf ran adjacent to the pool which momentarily enticed Cousteau, but the water temperature was a brisk 18c and so it was left for another day, when the cold current had disappeared.The pool was well maintained and the water was superbly clear with a magnificent aqua blue tinge. There was disabled access and the amenities were also in good condition.

Ghandi took us off to the beach kiosk, which was situated on the beachfront a few steps away from the rock pool for a gentle repast. It was here that the Splosh discovered a 'diamond in the rough' for housed in the old surf building was a Kiosk/Cafe, which had a distinctly laid back Californian vibe.  There was both indoor and outdoor casual seating and the near perfect view of the crystal clear, light blue water in the large picture windows echoed a David Hockney sensibility. A well priced extensive menu of toasted sandwiches and the like, rounded off a beautiful swim. All that we needed was for the Beach Boys to serenade us and all would have been right in our world!

The Splosh were overwhelmed with their discovery on this excursion.

Splosh Rating ****and 1/2 stars.

North Sydney Olympic Pool

“[Jellyfish] are 97% water or something, so how much are they doing? Just give them another 3% and make them water. It's more useful.”
― Karl Pilkington

The splosh were unusually sighted in a pairing as Ghandi went AWOL on this excursion! On the 6-10-2012 at 1PM, the weather was overcast with drizzle, however this didn't affect our experience as the pool was artificially heated to 25c. The pool was salt water and the water quality excellent on that day. The pool was virtually empty probably due to the inclement weather conditions, which gave Cousteau and Obi-Wan plenty of room to exercise and move around the lanes. The amenities were dated but well maintained. Transport access to the pool was exceptionally good. It is serviced by regular bus and ferry services, although the car parking is metered but given the location this is to be expected.


The surrounding architecture of the pool is art deco and the environment has a glorious old school ambiance about it. The kiosk offered the super thick hot chips and steaming coffee that warmed the soul and opened the heart, as Cousteau and Obi-Wan marvelled at the wonderfully iconic skyline; Luna Park, Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. Both had frequented this pool in their youth and they could feel the ghosts of the past, as it conjured many historic memories of world records in times gone by!

The splosh reports a marvellous day and an excursion that should be placed on everyone's 'must do' list at least once. Plenty of life guard attendance and friendly staff.



Splosh Rating a healthy *** and 1/2 stars :)

Link to History of North Sydney Pool.
http://www.northsydney.nsw.gov.au/www/html/2833-introduction.asp?intSiteID=1

Blog Concept

“Because there's nothing more beautiful than the way the ocean refuses to stop kissing the shoreline, no matter how many times it's sent away.”
― Sarah Kay

Inspired and motivated by Sandra's adventures on the high seas, the three Bathing Belles decided to seek out the rock pools beyond the Narrabeen bridge! The 3 Bathing Belles blog endeavours
to report their review of all the rock pools from Sydney Harbour to Palm Beach. This blog is of recorded rock pool visits this 2012/2013 summer swimming season and brought to you in our sense of humour, which we hope will bring a smile. If you see us on our journeys please come over and have a chat we love as much local input as possible!

We have attempted to apply a 5***** rating system which not only acknowledges the overall pool experience for the Bathing Belles but also includes the general ambiance of the related environment. Our intention is to be of some assistance to fellow rock puddlians who may wish to try a new venue in the course of their summer season.

It goes without saying that no matter the ranking each pool receives from us, we always feel entirely privileged to be able to enjoy such a wonderful concept as Sydney's rock pools year after year. There really is no other place we would rather be!

Deb Mitchell

 “You must not lose faith in humanity. Humanity is like an ocean; if a few drops of the ocean are dirty, the ocean does not become dirty.”
― Mahatma Gandhi

Deb "Ghandi" Mitchell is somewhat the Zenmaster, spiritual guide and visionary of the splosh. She fancies herself as a freedom fighter (i find that there's always one in every splosh) but on the whole this is contained to her own personal space! While, she is the splosh's resident poet and philosopher and has a knack for the superlative, she is rather more contemplative than active in the water. Appropriately her ability (or rather lack of) ensures that she is the weakest link in the swimming ranks and will act as a barometer for those potential Oceanophiliacs and I include general rock puddlians in this, who are more laconic in attitude.

The baby of the splosh, she has been spoiled and despite the other sploshee's numerous attempts to enrol her in weight loss programs, she has managed to defy the laws of starvation and now puts on more kilos per fewer calories consumed. Her extensive knowledge in this arena qualifies her for the position of splosh nutritionist. Oceanophilia enthusiasts may be interested to note that this member of the splosh uses exceptional floating technique (mainly on her back) to keep an eye out for promising local sustenance venues, a characteristic which is peculiar to her. To this extent she is the pride of the splosh who always 'LOVE A PIECE OF CAKE!'

Deb provides insight into all things atmospheric, aesthetic and makes sure the splosh is well fed!

Mandy Morton

"Who's the more foolish, the fool or the fool who follows him?" - Obi-Wan Knobe

Mandy "Obi-Wan Kenobi" Morton is a colourful local identity and somewhat of a medical ingenue. A trivia wizz, there isn't anything or anyone that she doesn't know. Mmmmm Obi-Wan is indeed all knowing and all seeing. Anywho, while her mind is still razor sharp sadly, her body has faced the ravages of time and while she still displays the accumulated skills of a competitive swimmer, the fitness level has dropped a little below par. Therefore Mandy is the intermediate swimmer of the splosh.

However, determined not to rest on her laurels, she displays great fortitude in the face of adversity and is on a constant mission to 'lift her game' in order to wrestle for the title of leader of the splosh. At this point it must be noted however, that Mandy's mind does tend to wander and she loves nothing more than to discuss bird plumage (the splosh is often accompanied by a variety of pelican, ducks, gannets, seagulls). Sadly, I contend that because of her frequent lack of focus, Mandy may never fully realise her ambition:(

However, affectionately known as 'the negotiator' of the splosh because of her ability 'to keep a cool head in the thick of combat', Mandy is deserved of her title. Her enthusiasm knows no bounds and so it will come as no surprise that with all these skills the wise one is in charge of virtually everything the other two forget! This includes; health and safety, logistics, stationery, water and weather temps, transport, change facilities and common sense!

Sandra Colquhoun

“For most of history, man has had to fight nature to survive; in this century he is beginning to realize that, in order to survive, he must protect it.”
― Jacques-Yves Cousteau

Sandra "Cousteau" Colquhoun is the leader of the splosh because she is its most experienced swimmer and she is the ultimate personification of the word courage. She is appropriately named after Jaques Cousteau, the famous ocean explorer because she most recently went off her normal migratory pattern to  sail around the world in a ridiculously small vessel! If that evidence doesn't convince you of her supreme courage in the face of adversity, Sandra took her husband with her! I rest my case.

Sandra contributes to the splosh by encouraging extreme rock pool activities such as; swimming in difficult conditions, exercise and fitness management and indeed generally encouraging the splosh to lift its game, so to speak and think outside their rock pool. To this end, Sandra can often be spotted moving out and around the pool environment in order to pit her skills against the conditions of the surrounding local ocean. Sandra exhibits tireless commitment to the ongoing challenge of extending the combined swimming skills of the splosh. Surely, nothing screams LEADER louder than this.

The 3 Bathing Belles.

“We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch – we are going back from whence we came…” – John F. Kennedy

The Bathing Belles are 3 severe Oceanophilia sufferers from the beautiful region of Sydney's Northern Beaches. They are life long friends who are united by their terminal love of all things ocean! Every summer season they awake from their land bound state of hibernation, dust of their winter coats and commence their migration to the coast, where regular sightings are recorded of them at their happiest, languishing in the Narrabeen or Bilgola rock pools. Oceanophilia spotters have noted that they are a resplendent sight whether they are basking, frolicking or exercising (i use this term loosely) and on occasion have been mistaken for the migratory Whale species. As the sun sets they return to the domesticity of their land bound families but remain very silent about the days activities. At sunrise and as the family departs into the wider world, the towels are unfurled from where they have been hidden and the coastal migratory ritual is repeated again.

When they appear en mass they tend to stay together and are collectively referred to as a "splosh" of Oceanophiliacs. The name was created by ardent Oceanophilia enthusiasts and is self explanatory once they have been viewed in full flight!