History of the Eskimos

A suggestion by Clovelly SLSC Vice-Captain Owen Coulter towards the conclusion of the 1953/54 Surf Life Saving season, that Clovelly should have it's own winter swimming club, led to the formation of Clovelly Eskimo's, one of Australia's most successful winter swimming clubs. The suggestion was put forward to cater for surf club members who trained throughout the year. The idea was enthusiastically received and a meeting was convened in the back bar of the Clovelly Hotel before the conclusion of the surf club season. At this meeting the first officials were elected, and the foundations were laid for the future of Clovelly Eskimo Winter Swimming Club.

The Clovelly Eskimo's became the fourth 'official' winter swimming club behind the Bronte Splashers, Bondi Icebergs and Coogee Penguins.

The inaugural President of the newly formed Clovelly Eskimo Winter Swimming Club, was Reg Hodgkinson. Owen Coulter took on the role of Secretary/Treasurer. Terry Corbett was elected to the Captaincy with John MacDermott taking on the role of Handicapper and Bruce Waters that of Point Score Registrar. The members met every Sunday morning between May and September to swim in organised races across the Clovelly Bay at a section which is 33 yards in distance.

From the humble beginnings of 1954, The Eskimo's has grown to be a club steeped in success, particularly during the Golden eras of the late 1950's through to the 1980's. Affectionately known as The Eskies, the club was the first affiliated Winter Swimming Club to officially allow women swimmers and has since become a great family oriented club, catering for all ages. The Eskies pride themselves in having a fun social atmosphere, while at the same time being competitive when it counts.

Send mail to president@eskimos.com.au with questions or comments about this web site.