You don’t need to wend your way down to the coast to cool off. Winding its way through the bush capital, the mighty Murrumbidgee River offers an abundant array of charming possibilities for a cool dip.  

On the doorsteps of suburbia you’ll find Kambah Pool, a perennial favourite, inviting you in for a refreshing plunge. Venture further south and you’ll discover the charm of Pine Island. 

Historically, the magnificent Cotter precinct is the place to go on a hot summer’s day. With large shady trees, manicured lawns and fantastic swimming holes, what more could you need? If taking your canine companion for a dip, head to the dog-friendly Uriarra Crossing for a splash and play. 

In showing our waterways the respect they deserve, we can all make this a safe summer. Never dive into water, keep an eye out for submerged logs, watch the flow—flowing water is stronger than you think—and importantly, never mix alcohol with swimming. The only time water and alcohol should be mixed is in a glass. 

When visiting any swimming spot it’s important to be aware of the potential risks. Signs along the banks of popular waterways will help you understand the risks associated with swimming in rivers, make informed decisions and stay safe. 

To celebrate our warmest months we’re holding a Summer Snaps photo and video competition to inspire and encourage people to get out and about and explore our magnificent waterways. 

As the days heat up, slip on a hat, slop on sunscreen and snap a great pic so you can share your water adventure with us. 

Not only are our waterways a great place to cool off, they offer magnificent experiences around the absolute wonders of nature. The competition’s theme of ‘water’ can be interpreted in a broad sense, representing any image, any story that captures the cultural, recreational or environmental role that water plays in our daily lives. 

First prize includes two nights’ accommodation at either Ready Cut Cottage or Nils Desperandum. To sweeten the deal, our prize winner will have a personalised, behind the scenes tour to my favourite little part of Namadgi National Park—an exclusive insight. Second prize includes two tickets to Jerrabomberra Wetlands’ Birds and Brew event.

I’m keen to show you a couple of cool spots, so get snapping by going to Summer Snaps photo competition - Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate - Environment. It closes January 31.