Making Waves: One Swimmer’s Quest to Transform Lake Burley Griffin into a Beloved Swim Destination

Lake Burley Griffin is often linked with unfavorable news about water quality and algal outbursts, making it not the typical choice for Canberrans wanting to swim.

However, for 24-year-old Joseph Pascall, that’s not the reality; he tries to dive into the lake around two to three times weekly.

Typically, Mr Pascall enters the water at West Basin, close to Scrivener Dam, aiming to swim approximately three kilometers each session.

Prior to entering, Mr Pascall gears up in a wetsuit which not only assists with buoyancy but also offers sun protection.

Like many others, he started his swimming adventure in a pool, but notes that swimming in open water like the lake is quite a “bit different.”

“Every day presents slightly different conditions,” he clarifies.

‘You just need to get accustomed to it’

Regarding those who claim they would never enter the lake, Mr Pascall motivates them to give it a shot.

He also regularly swims in Lake Ginninderra and Lake Tuggeranong.

He claims he has never felt ill after swimming in those lakes or participating in any events.

“You simply need to acclimate … you might have some reservations about it seeming unclear, but it’s perfectly fine,” he states.

“It’s a completely different experience compared to any busyness you might face in the pool, or when it’s more populated. It’s serene.”

One aspect Mr Pascall does need to remain vigilant about is the windsurfers and rowers, which he describes as “more hazardous than anything else in the lake.”

To keep his mind engaged, he stays focused on his surroundings and his intended direction.

Occasionally, it also involves keeping a melody in his mind.

Frequently, Mr Pascall is accompanied by his father, Steven Pascall.

Both indicate they do ensure…signage at the lake prior to swimming, and be vigilant for algal blooms. 

Steven mentions that throughout the years, he has developed a different technique to determine when the water quality is subpar.

“Usually you can tell …