THERE’s the immersion by stealth method or dive straight in and hope for the best.
Whatever method you chose the result is always the same, a refreshing start to your weekend and the opportunity for a coffee afterwards with like-minded individuals.
If you enjoy a bracing wake-me-up as dawn breaks over the ocean, whatever the temperature the Invy Dip Club could be just the thing for you.
Gathering on the sand at 6.30am most Saturday mornings outside the South Gippsland Yacht Club the Invy Dip Club regularly attracts 15 to 20 dippers of all ages.
Yes, it is cold but only until you catch your breath.
The water temperature in Anderson Inlet can vary from a chilly 12 or 13 degrees in the middle of winter to a relatively balmy 18 or 19 degrees in summer.
Over Autumn this year the water at Inverloch remains around 17 degrees.
Everyone is welcome according to convenor Chloe Yates no matter what your age, experience or fitness level.
“It is not a swim, more a gentle dip in the ocean,” said Chloe.
“Come as you are, embrace the morning and start your weekend feeling alive.”
Dipping their toes into the water for the first time during the Inverloch Equinox Festival the Invy Dip Club has since attracted a strong squad of ocean dippers keen to start their weekend with others who also enjoy an early morning catch-up on the beach.
Connection, community and cold water therapy is what it’s all about.
Lowering themselves into the clear waters of Anderson Inlet with the sun starting to appear over the horizon the Invy Dippers willingly allow the coldness to engulf them.
The short immersion of between three and ten minutes is followed by a towel-down, quick change into warm clothes then a leisurely coffee and chat at Bev’s Coffee afterwards, next to the Inverloch library in A’Beckett Street.
Chloe Yates says the Invy Dip Club brings together a community of like-minded people.
Recently relocated from Melbourne’s eastern suburbs Chloe is a keen surfer and swimmer, and loves the ocean.
A dip club member for many years at Warrandyte on the Yarra River Chloe says the icy coldness can still be a challenge, particularly in winter.
“Wetsuits are not required, that would defeat the purpose,” said Chloe.
Just bring your bathers, a warm towel and a change of clothes.
“No pressure, no expectations just good vibes, cold water and a beautiful way to start the day for free.”
The Invy Dip Club can be found on the sand at the bottom of the ramp to the South Gippsland Yacht Club on The Esplanade, Inverloch.
Search for the Invy Dip Club on Instagram @InvyDipClub.