Wye River

We're about 160 km south west of Melbourne, parked up on the ocean-side of the Great Ocean Road just south of the newly built bridge over the Wye River. It's late in the afternoon, maybe even early evening, and while there are quite a few people walking on the beach, there is only one person in the water. He's coaxing his dog, trying to convince it to join him in the small swell.

The dog bolts.

Wading in to the water, we discussed which is colder, bracing or brisk, as I started to feel that all-over rope burn feeling of the cold water. Feet going slightly numb, as I take some calming breaths before diving under a wave.

The water is crystal clear, and it feels like I can see all the way to the horizon under water.

The sun is starting to set over the hills overlooking the beach, and while we've yet to decide it's bracing or brisk it's definitely cold and time to get out of the water. I take a couple of big freestyle strokes in an attempt to ride one of the small waves to the beach. To my surprise, and initially alarm, a seal joins me in the wave.

Elated from the encounter with the wildlife, and from the cold water swim, we dry off on the beach, ready to go back to the house for some dinner.