Perth's iconic Rottnest Channel Swim has been cancelled just 14 hours before its scheduled start due to forecast bad weather, leaving 2,500 swimmers and support crew disappointed. Race director Rob Herkes said the decision was tough but necessary for safety, with strong winds of 18-20 knots expected inshore and increasing in deeper water.
Organiser Will Rollo told ABC Radio Perth that dozens of swimmers had already decided not to participate before the official cancellation. He noted that delaying the decision was part of their risk management plan, learning from 2024 when the race was abandoned mid-way and several swimmers required hospital assessment.
Participants were notified via text message late Friday afternoon. The Rottnest Channel Swim Association acknowledged the disappointment but stated that no refunds would be given, as per event terms and conditions. The event cannot be rescheduled due to logistical challenges, including managing the shipping lane.
Despite the cancellation, nearly $300,000 raised will go to charities, and food prepared for volunteers will be donated to a homeless service. Herkes expressed understanding for the efforts of swimmers and skippers, emphasizing that safety was the top priority.
The swim has been cancelled once before in 2007 and abandoned in 2024 due to dangerous weather.
