Warrnambool residents braving the cold sea to help fight coronavirus blues

Koroit's John Sheely should have been in Switzerland's Zurich on Sunday competing in his first 26-kilometre open water swim, which was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

But Mr Sheely's unwavering commitment has seen him clock up more than 130 consecutive ocean swims in Warrnambool since March.

"When the pool closed (due to coronavirus restrictions), I started going for a dip here at lunch times and told myself I'd do over two kilometres each time," he said.

"The first 100 were about 2.7kms (each)."

Each day, Mr Sheely has a bacon sandwich and coffee from Warrnambool's Fishtales Cafe before heading to the breakwater for a swim at lunch time.

He doesn't wear a wetsuit, instead donning a pair of Budgy Smugglers and a swimming cap.

"I like a challenge and it's good for your mental health and well-being to stay active," Mr Sheely said.

"I'd like to tick over 150 (swims) and then maybe 200, and then I reckon I'll have a few beers in the sun."

Mr Sheely is often joined by Fishtales Cafe owner Tamara Mahoney and her daughter Bella, 21.

The pair have clocked up more than 100 consecutive ocean swims since April.

Bella's European gap year was postponed just three days before international borders were shut due to COVID-19 back in March.

She said she was disappointed but swimming everyday kept the blues away.

"When you jump in the water, you just wash off all the negative thoughts," Bella said.

Her mum said she was "forever grateful" for the time spent with her daughter during the pandemic.

"Four months ago there was no way I'd have thought I'd be swimming in the ocean every day with my daughter," Mrs Mahoney said.

"She has been a shining light for me and that is something I will forever be grateful for."

Mrs Mahoney said there were dozens of Warrnambool residents who braved the cold waters everyday.

"It really takes your breath away," she said.

"But it's so good to dive in, especially on those days where you might be feeling really black. It's great for the mental health."

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