More than 110 people, including senior police, will brave icy waters at Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie this weekend to raise money for Special Olympics Australia.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run’s Polar Plunge will be held at Jetty Beach, Coffs Harbour, at 9am Saturday, 8 August, before moving to Westport Jetty, Port Macquarie, at 10am on Sunday, 9 August.
Participants from the NSW Police Force, emergency services, community and justice agencies, Special Olympics clubs, businesses and the wider community have already raised more than $26,000.
Both events will begin with a short torch run and opening ceremony before participants take the plunge.
Coffs-Clarence Police District Commander Acting Superintendent Mitch Dubojski will be among those entering the water at Coffs Harbour.
“The Polar Plunge is a great reminder of what can be achieved when people come together behind a common cause,” A/Supt Dubojski said.
“Special Olympics Australia provides athletes with opportunities to develop skills, achieve personal goals and be part of a supportive sporting community, and we are proud to contribute to that mission.”
“Events like this are about much more than jumping into cold water. They are about raising awareness and demonstrating the strong connection between police and the communities we serve.”
Mid North Coast Police District Commander Superintendent Shane Cribb APM will take part in the Port Macquarie event on Sunday.
“The Polar Plunge is one of those events that brings out the very best in our community, with people from all walks of life coming together to support Special Olympics Australia and its athletes,” Supt Cribb said.
“It takes a bit of courage to jump into cold water, but the challenges faced by many athletes every day are far greater. Taking part is a simple way to show our support and help make a real difference.”
“We are proud to stand alongside our emergency service partners, local organisations and community members to raise awareness and funds for such an important cause.”
The Polar Plunge is being held at 26 locations across Australia from Saturday, 4 July to Sunday, 30 August 2026.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run brings together members of the NSW Police Force and other law enforcement agencies to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics Australia and its athletes.
Law Enforcement Torch Run President Scott Whyte APM said support from communities across the Mid North and Coffs coasts had again been strong.
“The enthusiasm and generosity shown by communities continues to amaze us, with strong support for this year’s Polar Plunge events,” Mr Whyte said.
“Every registration and donation helps Special Olympics Australia provide sporting opportunities, training and support for athletes with intellectual disability and autism.”
“With the Special Olympics Australia National Games set to take place in Melbourne this October, fundraising events like these play an important role in helping athletes prepare for and participate in this milestone event.”
“Whether people are taking the plunge, volunteering their time or cheering from the shoreline, they are helping create a more inclusive community where everyone has the chance to succeed through sport.”
Registrations and donations can be made at https://include.specialolympics.com.au/polar-plunge.
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