If you want to welcome the 'new sun' in true adventurous spirit, pop down to the Hastings River at McInherney Park, Port Macquarie on Sunday, June 20 for the winter solstice swim.

The winter solstice occurs on June 20-21 and is the longest night of the year in the southern hemisphere.

It is the night when the sun appears to "stand still" and heralds the advent of warmer days and more daylight hours.

PMAA invites all adventurous souls to take the plunge into the icy winter waters at 6.15am with a warm breakfast and hot coffee afterwards the reward.

Cost is $5 per person.

This will be followed by a special fundraising waterside event on June 26.

A celebration will be held at 6.30pm at Waters Edge, Port Macquarie with tickets including a food, drinks and entertainment.

All funds raised will go towards PMAA's new astronomical science centre. Tickets are $65.

To book go to www.trybooking.com/BRGTC

If you would like to know more about the Port Macquarie Astronomical Association visit their website www.portastronomy.com.au or follow them on Instagram @portobservatory and on Facebook www.facebook.com/portobservatory.

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