'Crazy' Christmas party act on Sydney Harbour sparks warning to Aussies
The seemingly simple act of fun could come with a $1,100 fine.
A simple act of fun at a work Christmas party last week has been condemned by authorities who've warned of the various health and safety risks associated with swimming in Sydney Harbour.
The NSW Department of Planning and Environment issued a warning to visitors that swimming is "not permitted" after a video showing three women jumping into the water was shared on social media before reportedly being taken down.
The clip, which was originally shared on TikTok, shows three women standing by the water at Cockle Bay in central Sydney while enjoying work drinks. They thought a "quick dip" in the harbour was a "good idea" as they launched themselves off the wharf while fully clothed and holding hands.
The video then cuts to the women climbing back out of the water laughing, wringing excess water from their clothes.
$1,100 fine for swimming in Sydney Harbour
Swimming in the harbour is off-limits for several reasons, the department warned — and comes with a maximum penalty of $1,100. It's not known if the three women were fined.
"Swimming is not permitted at Darling Harbour or Cockle Bay as there is a large amount of boat traffic. There are also no distinct swimming areas with shark nets," a Placemaking NSW spokesperson told Yahoo News Australia. Sydney Harbour is notorious for bull sharks, especially as the weather heats up. The water also "has not been tested" for contaminants including waste, dirt, debris and sewage overflow.
Man's warning after 'incredibly dangerous' stunt at Aussie beach
Fishermen shocked to reel in bull shark at Sydney swimming spot
'Crazy' stunt slammed on social media
The video garnered over 300,000 views on the social media platform before it was taken down after concerned Aussies criticised the "crazy" stunt, according to news.com.au.
"Nup, not a chance, the harbour is full of sharks and jellyfish," one person reportedly commented. "It’s not safe to swim in Sydney Habour," another lamented. Others said they were "scared" watching the "crazy" antic.
Safe swimming spot around Sydney Harbour
Although swimmers are banned from Darling Harbour or Cockle Bay, some nearby swimming spots are deemed safe.
"Sydneysiders and visitors can swim at nearby Harbour swimming spot, Marrinawi Cove which is safe and netted," the Placemaking NSW spokesperson said. "Marrinawi Cove is located at the northern end of Barangaroo Reserve where there is safety netting to enclose the swimming area, signage and shower facilities.
"Water quality has been tested at Marrinawi Cove and it is safe for swimming," they added. "Swimmers must take care at all times, follow safety signage and use suitable footwear."
Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.
You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
