I believe it was back on again this year! Would love to hear about your experience in the forum here.
I know not all the locals in Tasmania are great supporters and wondering if you mentioned to a local the purpose (nude swim) of travel and what their reaction was.
But also beyond this, what else did you experience, where did you stay, what else did you do in Tassie (any other nude experiences).
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- MEMemberJun 22, 2026
I did not do the swim this year, but have the last 2 years. It is a great experience to do with 3000 other people, many doing it the first time and for various reasons. My partner did not do it but talked with a few women who did and some did it for fun, some a dare, but many were recovering from serious illness, some with friends going through menopause. Was interesting that the women were very supportive of each other it seemed. The blokes I spoke to, were there for fun, some with mates to tick off a bucket list item, some who were nudists who just wanted to be part of what is marketed as a pagan ritual.
The locals who live nearby either come along for a laugh or stay away from the crowds. Not sure there is that much objection, but there will always be a few. The Dark Mofo event was pretty much finished last year when we arrived a day before the swim, the year before the overall event was going on before & after the swim. Not sure how they plan the event timing.
ReactReply - MEMemberOriginal PosterJun 22, 2026
I believe most locals do see the entire event for what it is, a whole lot of fun, entertaining and good for the local economy. Those objecting are truly a minority. I dont believe any turn out with signs and protests though. All up its a great lead and model for any other city (Brisbane thats you) to follow.
Im hoping in the next few years I can tie up a trip that includes the festival, the swim and a visit to the footy stadium!
ReactReply - MEMemberJun 23, 2026
There was a news article on ABC last night with very similar conditions to the last 2 years. Lots of bare bums, red smoke and people enjoying themselves. Plenty of pixelation of genitals and a few people interviewed. One guy has done the last 8 swims and said he loves the opportunity to be nude in public. I recall seeing him last year, a big guy, looked a bit like a bear, he kept walking around naked after everyone was out of the water and getting dressed, he enjoyed himself, a true nudist .....
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