Our Story

‘My Great Aunt Meryl was an inspiration. Growing up, she left me awestruck with her unwavering commitment to swimming, "whatever the weather." When she finally hung up her iconic pale-blue, floral cap in her late nineties, I knew I had to honour her legacy. That's how the Aunty Meryl Appreciation Society was born – a group dedicated to embracing the invigorating power of year-round swimming.

Soon, it evolved into "All Weather Swimming with Aunty Meryl," or A.W.S.W.A.M for short (a playful nod to “awesome") and a single word summing up the powerful sensations felt by all-weather swimmers. I hope someday that ‘A.W.S.W.A.M’ becomes the rallying cry for all who dare to dive headfirst into the elements; it’s short and sharp (and easy to say betwen chattering teeth 🥶).

My sister suggests dropping the dots between the letters, but I see them as a symbol of the grit and determination that defines an all-weather swimmer. They stay.

Matt Plumbridge - Great Nephew and Founder

Aunty Meryl second from left (circa 1925) amongst my ancestors, including my grandfather (sat on the pedestal) who also features on the front page encouraging his cousin as she launches into her epic dive. 

Our Mission:

A.W.S.W.A.M celebrates the vibrant community of all-weather swimmers. We are champions of those who embrace the elements, chasing the endorphin rush and euphoria that comes from pushing past perceived limits and swimming "whatever the weather."

We are your allies in staying warm, dry, and looking good both in and out of the water. We stand shoulder-to-shoulder as you champion this transformative movement, breath-by-breath, stroke-by-stroke.

From beaches and pools to rivers and lakes, we honor your commitment, whether you're a wild swimmer, body surfer, channel crosser, island hopper, triathlon trainee, or simply taking your morning dip. We celebrate your discomfort, your resilience, and your pursuit of a truly limitless life.

Together, we are A.W.S.W.A.M. Together, we can all "Live Forever."’