An article from Max Martin, Brighton Rotary
Competitors travel from far and wide to participate in the Keiser Bayside Swim conducted each year by Brighton Rotary. But not all sail across Port Philip Bay to take part.In January 2026's swim, six members of the Willy Dolphins of the eight who participated in the swim travelled from Williamstown via boat to the other side of the Bay, leaving very early at 7:10 am and taking exactly an hour to reach Brighton where the boat captain (Tom Cannon) had booked a mooring at the Royal Brighton Yacht Club. Their sailing craft is usually moored at Blunts boatyard in Williamstown which has been operating since 1858 and is still run by one of the Blunt family.
Four of the Willy Dolphins won medals and all of them finished in the top ten. Six of them did both the 2.4. & 1.4 swims. As they were leaving Brighton, Tom asked someone who was fishing on the pier for a couple of blue baits and halfway back across the Bay, they dropped a line. Within 5 minutes they had caught a flathead! Well done guys: a very successful day out for all except perhaps for the flathead.
Left to Right: On the Jetty just before the 1.4K swim; Willy Dolphins Bob, Willis, Tom Cannon,
Warren May, Justin Almering and Chris Lynch
Warren May, Justin Almering and Chris Lynch
Left to Right: Leaving Hobsons Bay; four winning Willy Dolphins