‘Incredibly disappointed’: Strong winds, currents force Rottnest Channel Swim to be cancelled

The Rottnest Channel Swim has been cancelled, with organisers choosing to pull the pin late on Friday as they faced a forecast of strong winds, swell and currents.

Organisers said in an email to swimmers they were incredibly disappointed to have to make the decision.

“Current predictions indicate persistent strong southerly winds, a powerful south-to-north surface current, and significant afternoon swell,” the statement said.

“These conditions are not expected to improve and present an unacceptable level of risk for swimmers, skippers and support crews.

“We know how much this event means to so many in our community.

“Months, and in many cases years, of training, preparation and travel plans have gone into this swim. As always, the safety of every participant and volunteer is our absolute priority.”

Organisers thanked all swimmers, skippers, paddlers and volunteers for their time, and advised there would be no refunds. However, everyone who entered would be guaranteed entry next year.

“Finally, thank you for your patience this week while our small but dedicated team worked right up until the final possible moment to explore every option,” the statement said.

The organisers confirmed the event would not be rescheduled due to the cost and effort of closing the channel.

The swim was due to be held on Saturday morning, with the first wave of swimmers entering the water at Cottesloe Beach bound for Thomson Bay by 5.45am.

On Friday, the weather had already begun to turn despite clear skies and warm weather, with choppy, windy conditions recorded seen off WA beaches.

The Bureau of Meteorology said the weather would continue throughout the weekend and forecast strong nautical winds of 30 knots, or about 55 kilometres per hour, on Saturday morning, with a strong south-westerly wind due to actively work against swimmers as they cross the channel.

According to BoM, weather was also set to worsen throughout the duration of the swim.

Organisers agreed conditions made the event too dangerous to go ahead, noting they were similar to those that forced the swim to be abandoned in 2024.

Competitors previously expressed their frustration after receiving the news by a text sent just after 4am on the morning of the race.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development also announced it had cancelled abalone hour on Saturday due to safety concerns.

“The main priority is ensuring fishers’ safety when accessing abalone. Based on the modelling it was determined it would not be safe to proceed with fishing this Saturday,” management officer Aidan Walsh said.

“Compliance officers will be attending beaches within the Western Zone to ensure that abalone fishing is not taking place.”