Orange Winter Solstice Plunge 2026

The Orange Winter Solstice Plunge is a low-key community gathering for anyone keen to do something a little cold and uncomfortable together.

Possibly Australia’s highest solstice plunge* and almost certainly one of the coldest.

(*Probably. We haven’t checked.)

And yes - swimmers, wetsuits and clothes are absolutely encouraged.

On Sunday 21 June, we’ll meet at Gosling Creek Reserve (patch of sand) for a quick cold-water plunge, followed by hot soup, bread rolls, and good company.

The plunge itself usually lasts somewhere between 30 seconds and 2 minutes (5 minutes if you’re trying to prove something).

This event is free to attend, with optional donations supporting Lifeline Central West’s mental health and suicide prevention work across regional communities.

Why do it?

Because sometimes getting uncomfortable together can actually be good for you.

Cold water, fresh air, mates, laughter, and showing up, sometimes that’s exactly what mental health looks like.

WHAT TO EXPECT:
• A quick winter plunge at Gosling Creek Dam
• Hot soup and bread rolls provided afterwards
• A relaxed, welcoming atmosphere
• A bunch of locals voluntarily making questionable decisions together

EVENT DETAILS:

• Gosling Creek Dam (meet at patch of sand)

• Sunday 21 June 2026

• Meet from 12:30pm

• Plunge at 1:00pm

Please note:
Gosling Creek Reserve has reopened as the water quality monitoring has found algae levels are now safe.

If organisers determine that Gosling Creek is unsuitable for the plunge, the event location will move to Lake Canobolas and all registered attendees will be notified in due course via email and event updates.

Bring:
• Swimmers or an outfit
• Water shoes and a towel
• Warm clothes for afterwards
• Dry shoes
• Your mates

Please note:
Participation in the plunge is entirely voluntary and at your own risk. This is a community event and conditions on the day may vary.