Ballarat residents are being invited to swap warm winter layers for icy water as Special Olympics Ballarat prepares to host its first Polar Plunge fundraiser at Bridgeswade.
The community event will challenge participants to jump into the cold water while raising money to support local athletes with an intellectual disability and/or autism.
Organisers say every dollar raised will remain in Ballarat, helping fund inclusive sporting opportunities, future regional competitions and travel support for athletes representing the region at the Special Olympics National Games.
The fundraiser is open to anyone aged 12 and over, with participants gathering from 9am before the first plunge at 9.30am. Registration costs $30 per person.
Special Olympics Australia uses sport to provide year-round training and competition for people with intellectual disability, with local clubs relying on fundraising and community support to deliver programs and events.
While the Polar Plunge is expected to test participants’ willingness to face Ballarat’s winter temperatures, organisers hope the event will also bring the community together in support of local athletes and the volunteers who help make inclusive sport possible.
People who would rather stay dry are encouraged to support the event by cheering on participants or making a donation, with organisers saying every contribution helps expand opportunities for athletes to train, compete and build confidence through sport.
The inaugural fundraiser will take place at Bridgeswade in Ballarat, with organisers wishing all participants well and thanking the volunteers, supporters and sponsors helping bring the event to life.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
