On Sunday March 13, plunge yourself into the most stunning harbour in the world and raise money for Sydney’s endangered Little Penguin population. The Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House and the Royal Botanic gardens will be the backdrop to a swim to remember.

This year, the Ord Minnett Sydney Harbour Swim Classic has chosen the Foundation for National Parks & Wildlife as one of its featured charities.

Not only is the Foundation a charity of choice for the event, but there is a Charity Sprint race bringing together Australia’s past and present elite athletes to support their chosen charities. Swimming for the Foundation is Louise Stephenson, Suanne Hunt and Shelley against the likes of Michael Klim and Geoff Huegill.

Sydneysiders are lucky enough to have a population of Little Penguins living right on their doorstep. The population, in a secluded cove in Sydney's North Harbour, is the only breeding colony on the New South Wales mainland.

Little penguins, which stand at only 30cm tall and weigh only 1kg when fully grown, are the world's smallest penguins. Living around Australia and New Zealand, they prefer cooler waters where there are plenty of fish. They are the only penguin species found on mainland Australia.

“Over the past 6 years, the Foundation for National Parks & Wildlife has funded the monitoring of Manly’s endangered Little Penguin colony and the installation of artificial nest boxes. These boxes help increase the birds' breeding success and make the captive-bred arrivals feel right at home.” said Ms Gale, CEO of the Foundation for National Parks & Wildlife.

“The nest boxes have proven a higher than average breeding success since. “ Ms Gale added.

“The Foundation is committed to ensuring that Little Penguins persist in Sydney’s Harbour by monitoring and protecting Manly’s penguin population,” said Ms Gale.

“The Foundation would like to thank the organising team at the Ord Minnett Sydney Harbour Swim Classic for assisting us in raising much needed funds for one of Australia’s most treasured animals.” Ms Gale said.

The Foundation for National Parks & Wildlife has partnered with Everyday Hero to provide an online fundraising web page for each participant. Participants who raise funds for the Foundation have the chance to win a major prize including a trip to Lion Island for a chance to see Little Penguins in the wild.

Visit www.sydneyharbourswim.com before March 11 to register.

Be part of history in the once a year Sydney swim opportunity and celebrate the Classic’s 10^th Anniversary. With the city skyline behind you, the world famous harbour before you, and our Little Penguins counting on you, you’ll be glad you swam for such a great cause.    

In the Media

• Manly Daily, 3rd March 2011