Julie Hazelgrove

I completed my final dip paying respect and supporting National Book Week, dressing up as Wally to take the plunge. I had decided earlier on to complete my dips in my parents pool...where it all started. These dips were dedicated to Dad..however, I also had a few other souls in my thoughts as I completed each challenge. The water was warmer on this final dip..still very cold, but bearable. I guess we were only days out from the season turning into Spring. Hooray!As I completed the lap through the cold water on my final dip, I reflected on why this challenge was so important to me. I thought about my failures in what I set out to achieve, but I also felt proud of what I did achieve. It was extremely challenging this year, knowing how much I did not want to let my father down, those who had donated, or myself on my goals. Jumping in the water this year was extra difficult knowing I have been battling some health issues that have restricted a few of the dips. The Show had to go on though..I was determined to complete what I had set out to achieve. And that I did. Next year, I hope to do an extra dip....and set my target at 6 dips (maybe more). I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported this challenge, and donated to the Cancer Council. It takes a village to succeed at making changes to outcomes...may we find better treatments that have better outcomes  for those diagnosed with cancer in the future. Dad, I completed the 5 dips. I will always appreciate how much you encouraged me to keep going and get on with it....and that is what I intend to keep doing for you. xx

I had intended on doing a Daffodil Dip Day Tour whilst exploring the East Coast of Tasmania on Holidays, however, I had not factored in how the conditions of the ocean change in Winter on the East Coast, and how difficult entering the water on that side of Tasmania can be at this time of the year. Sadly, the Daffodil Day tour idea did not eventuate due to tide times, weather conditions and other commitments whilst on holidays!I did want to make up for the fact I had not participated in a dip for over a week, so today I purchased a bag of ice, and decided whilst the conditions in the ocean were not ideal, I would create my own icy challenge at home.I ran a cold water bath, placed some ice in a bucket, and proceeded to take a dip in the cold water, before raising a bucket of ice over my head and pouring it over my already cold body from the cold bath water. Surely this effort can be included in my dip challenge? :P 

On my 50th Birthday, my son and I went on a walk exploring Anniversary Bay at Sisters Beach in the Rocky Cape National Park. We also enjoyed investigating the Wet Cave on this walk also. Before we left the area, it seemed fitting to end our road trip doing another Dip for the Cancer Council at Sisters Beach. Donning on my Gold cap, and Daffodil Day tee, I ran into the icy cold water at the beach, and completed Dip #3. A fitting way to celebrate my 50th Birthday before lunch! 

Whilst visiting Bridport for the Tassie Scallop Fiesta on Sunday 2nd August, I decided that the location would be a perfect opportunity to take my second Dip. We headed down to Mermaids Pool, which is situated near the old Pier, as the sun was setting, to make a little splash in the icy cold water.There were a few obstacles as I ventured into the water. Lots of rocks hidden underneath the water, as well as the water feeling like it was coming in at different directions. However, I discovered, whilst out in the water, the temperature was no where NEAR as cold as my pool plunge the day before! Hooray! It was a magical place to complete my second dip, and it was just as magical to have two of my favourite people cheering me on from the shore line as I took a wee little dip. Thankyou Caro and Kate!

Also a big thankyou to Jill, Christie, Liana and Erin for kindly supporting and donating to the Cancer Council overnight. 

It was important to dive right into this Daffodil Day Winter Dip challenge on the very first day of August, and it seemed appropriate to commence dipping at my parent's place, due to the fact that for the month of August, my very loved Papa Bear will be in my mind each and every dip.Dad fought the fight until his very final moments. Through his year long battle, he taught me to get on with it, and make each day count. He showed his girls so much courage and determination before he passed. I am ever so grateful to have had such a strong, loyal, and determined man raising me, and supporting us through all the successes and challenges over the years.Today, it took me 2 minutes staring down the length of the pool before I braved the splash. I think I needed that 2 minutes to reflect on why this event is so important to do. For a small amount of discomfort, we are supporting those who are experiencing the discomfort that this illness brings each day. The moment my Mum called out my Dad's name to give me strength in this dive today, I was overcome with the responsibility to complete what I set out to achieve for my father, and for all my loved ones who have been slapped around  and punched by this illness. I dived in, and I completed the first dip in the solar heated pool, which was not really heated due to it being a Tassie winter! When I exited the pool, I felt the morning winter sun on my back, providing a touch of warmth back into my body, and I felt a sense of accomplishment in completing the first dip. I will be attempting to complete at least 5 for the month of August.

Thankyou to Sally, Carolyn and Lynn for your donations.