The first crossing of Lake Macquarie took place in 1960 when a group of Swansea Belmont SLSC members took up the challenge to be the first to swim across Lake Macquarie, They included John Regan, Bill Cambridge, Cliff Marsh, Jim Corkett, Kevin Aspley, John Davies, Ray Breckenbridge, Peter Lee and a young lass named Anne.

The Across the Lake swim has been run every year since 1960 and is the longest running Open Water Swim in Australia with competitors of all ages taking part in the 3.8km event. It is also believed to be the longest straight swim in Australia.

Whilst the first crossing was done simply to complete the swim the 1961 Across the Lake Swim became a race, won by Graham Sargent of Newcastle S.L.S.C.

The finish line was originally Belmont Baths then Belmont South Caravan Park and finally a permanent Finish at Belmont 16' Sailing Club our Major Sponsor of the swim.

The traditional Start Point is Coal Point on the western side of Lake Macquarie and the race record is held by Olympic swimmer Glen Houseman at 39min.+

The largest Field has been 380 and many of the swimmers have enjoyed multiple crossings.

The Across the Lake Swim in a major fund raiser for the Swansea Belmont Surf Life Saving Club.

Further any further information please contact Paul Tapley on 0416287596 or email to This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it

Map of Swim Course- Click here

Entry form - Click here

RESULTS NOW AVAILABLE

2008 Results - Please go to the Forms section of the website and select Across the Lake Swim