The Ducktober Diaries: Participants Making Waves Across the Pond
Mother and daughter team, Donna and Blaise during Ducktober
Words: Fred Murray
As our annual cold water challenge, Ducktober, comes to an end we would like to highlight that none of what WOW does would be possible without you amazing Ducks!
During this year’s cold water challenge a few participants caught the eye of the WOW family, making us go “duck yeah” on more than one occasion. We just had to share some of these awesome stories….
The Boaty Boys
From ice baths to iced coffees, Tamma and the Boaty Boys are taking Ducktober to a whole new level. It wasn't enough to just take on Ducktober, The Boaty Boys have decided to cut out any hot liquids!
“We decided to take the challenge to another level and made the call that any liquid inside your body or around your body must be cold for the whole of October”.
Tamma and the Boaty Boys in Lennox Head
After seeing the WOW crew doing regular surf therapy sessions from the Lennox Head boat channel, Tamma and his mates decided to get on board and take on the Ducktober challenge. Just like that the Boaty Boys were born. But submerging themselves in cold water wasn't enough. Being long time surfers and swimmers Tamma made the decision to push the team even further by incorporating a never before seen variable. Tamma made the decision that any liquid ingested by the team had to be cold and this was the case for the entire month of October.
“Achieving your goals, as little as they may seem is a personal triumph”
The Boaty Boys team of over 15 members have been going strong this month and have been reaping the rewards of cold water mindfulness. Committing to Ducktober is already a challenge in itself however by pushing the limits further Tamma believes it creates a stronger sense of commitment and self confidence.
The Vinnies ED Team
Working tirelessly during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Vinnies ED team (at Sydney’s St Vincent’s Hospital) have definitely faced serious challenges, but they are here to take Ducktober by the horns. Laura Burt’s team are one of the leading fundraisers in this year's Ducktober challenge and it turns out they are benefiting just as much as WOW.
“It’s had such a positive effect on my own mental health. It wakes me up and gives me a sense of accomplishment for the day”
Laura Burt with a member of the Vinnies ED Team at Bondi
After participating in last year's Ducktober, Laura made the decision to call upon her Vinnies ED team. Whilst working in the emergency department during COVID-19, Laura's team saw first-hand what the pressures of mental health can have on those struggling. Finding a way to raise money for mental health was something the Vinnies ED team were already passionate about. Being ocean and nature lovers they wanted to be immersed in Sydney’s coastline - and Ducktober allowed them to do both.
“I can’t explain it I’m sure there is a qualified person who can... but it makes you feel so energetic and really kick-starts your day”
Whilst participating in Ducktober, Laura and her team have used the opportunity to focus on their own mindfulness. During the challenge they have taken the time to reflect on the powers of not only cold water, but the ocean as a whole to better understand themselves. We couldn't be more happy, proud and honoured to be supported by such an amazing team!
The Donna and Blaise Team
Participating in just a team of two, Donna and Blaise amazingly hold the third highest rank of donations. From plunging into freezing pools to diving into Middle Harbour in Port Jackson (Sydney) during peak La Niña. This incredible mother and daughter effort took WOW by storm and we couldn't be more inspired to share their amazing story.
“A few years ago I was lucky enough to participate in one of WOW’s Sand‘n’ Surf programs and it had a profound impact on my mental health.”
After experiencing the benefits of WOW’s programs Blaise felt the need to provide the same opportunity to those struggling with mental health challenges. While dealing with her own struggles of bipolar, anxiety and eating disorders, Blaise needed to find a way to live life in a balanced and fruitful way. Plunging into freezing cold water granted Blaise with the mental resilience to take on further stress and challenges in her day to day life. What's better is the opportunity for Blaise and her mother Donna to further build their relationship by taking on Ducktober together.
“The most rewarding part of this challenge is doing it with mum. It has bonded us in a way I have never experienced.”
Blaise and Donna are just what Ducktober is all about, actively showing an interest in our own mental wellbeing regardless of whether we are struggling or not.
Blaise and Donna at the Ducktober launch event in Sydney
“My mind has never been clearer, my perseverance stronger, my sleep better and if you can sign up with someone you will create unforgettable memories”
We can’t thank everyone enough for their support and we are already looking forward to getting ducking next year! You can donate to Ducktober 2022 here.