The swimmers travelled from North Cairns, Beijing, Newcastle, Sydney and the Central Coast as well as a large group of local Scone swimmers to take part in one of the three swims – the 1km, 3km or 5km swim.

Although the water was just 21 degrees, compared to last year’s 28 degrees all competitors launched into the 100 per cent capacity dam.

The annual open water swim was held on the Eastern Foreshore of Glenbawn Dam and the race was officially opened by Scone’s Australia Day ambassador Jill Bruce.

The swim was organised by Scone Amateur Swimming Club and the 5km swim was a national title qualifying swim under the NSW Swimming Open Water Marathon series.

One swimmer – Tanya Wood qualified for the marathon series.

Local talent Thomas Heaton kept part of the winnings at home taking out the 3km swim with a time of 50.29 minutes.

The 5km swim was won by Patrick Day with a time of 1.18.32 hours and John Langley from Muswellbrook won the 1km swim with a time of 16.22 minutes.

Scone Swimming Club secretary Kath Meier said swimmers ranged from nine-year-olds through to one swimmer who was 75.

She said the early entry numbers increased this year which was good to see, however due to the weather the entries on the day were down a little.

“Spirits were still really high and although times were a little slower due to poor visibility, everyone had a great swim,” she said.

“We had a good mix of returned swimmers and newcomers, which was great to see.”

Meier said the amount raised for the club was yet to be finalised, but the club would now start preparing for its major fundraiser – the Business House Relay - in March.

She reminded people to start organising their teams and start training for the fun event.