That's a Wrap 2026 - But the Polar Bears are just getting started!

What an incredible day!

On Sunday at Merewether Baths, Newcastle truly turned it on for the Polar Plunge. With the sun shining, mild temperatures and a stunning coastline as our backdrop, there was a real sense of joy, generosity and community spirit in the air from start to finish.

Firstly, on behalf of the entire PSH Polar Bears team, thank you to every single person who donated, attended, cheered from the sidelines, purchased raffle tickets or supported us in any way throughout our fundraising journey. Your generosity has exceeded anything we could have imagined.

While the Polar Plunge itself was certainly memorable, the highlight of the day was marching alongside athletes representing Australia at the Special Olympics in Melbourne, together with police and supporters from across the Newcastle and Hunter regions. Seeing the excitement, pride and gratitude on the faces of these incredible athletes was truly inspiring. Their enthusiasm reminded all of us exactly why events like this matter and made every plunge participant even more eager to dive into the icy waters.

A special thank you must go to the wonderful team at Budgy Smuggler, who ensured the Polar Bears looked the part with our custom-designed smugglers and smugglettes. We were proud to wear them on the day and greatly appreciate your support.

We would also like to thank the Newcastle Knights for their generous donation of a signed 2026 jersey, which was raffled off following the plunge. The raffle was a huge success and helped push our fundraising efforts beyond an incredible $10,000 milestone.

And the best part? You amazing people are still donating!

At the time of writing, we're already closing in on $11,000 raised, a testament to the generosity of our community and the support behind this fantastic cause.

This was our first year being involved in the Polar Plunge and supporting such a worthy cause. To say it has lit a fire in us would be an understatement. The experience has been inspiring, rewarding and genuinely humbling.

The PSH Polar Bears are already recruiting for next year's plunge, and we can promise one thing: we're going bigger and better.

Once again, thank you to everyone who helped make this year's Polar Plunge such a tremendous success. Port Stephens-Hunter PD has shown once again what can be achieved when a community comes together behind a great cause.

See you in 2027.

The PSH Polar Bears 🐻‍❄️

A Polar Plunge fit for The Bear!

Every great team has a great leader. At Port Stephens-Hunter Police District, we're fortunate enough to have one affectionately known as "The Bear."

Some would say Detective Superintendent Wayne Humphrey was born for this moment - The Bear leading the PSH Polar Bears in the Polar Plunge! The script couldn't have been written better!

As Commander of the Port Stephens-Hunter Police District, Detective Superintendent Humphrey is a respected leader, trusted mentor and unwavering supporter of the people who proudly serve our communities. But his policing story started long before he found himself preparing to plunge into freezing water for charity.

How long ago was that exactly? Let's just say some questions are better left unanswered and we'd dare not share! Although if you hit Polar Bear Cooky up, she may just tell you… 🙊 There may be some old scrolls stored somewhere that have his start date recorded… Did someone say museum?

Over the course of a distinguished career, Superintendent Humphrey has worked across a variety of policing roles, including special operations and tactical policing, emergency management and criminal investigations. While those days may have involved tactical equipment and high-risk operations, these days his tools of choice are a green pen, a sharp mind and an unwavering focus on supporting the people around him.

And that's what truly defines him.

At first glance, The Bear can appear every bit the experienced police commander. And he is. But those who know him best know there's far more beneath the surface. Behind the tough exterior is a compassionate leader who genuinely cares about his staff, his community and the wellbeing of those around him.

He is dependable, approachable and fiercely protective of his people. The sort of leader who expects high standards, but never asks others to give more than he is prepared to give himself. Ask those who work alongside him who they'd want standing beside them during a challenging incident, a difficult day or a major crisis, and you'll hear one name repeated time and time again.

The Bear.

Not because he has all the answers (although he'd probably challenge that point). Not because he seeks recognition. But because people know he will be there. Just like he'll be there Sunday with his people. Because for The Bear, leadership has never been about standing above the team. It's about standing with them.

That's the kind of trust that cannot be demanded. It's earned.

Perhaps that's why the Port Stephens-Hunter Police District has built such a strong reputation throughout the North Region. While success is always a team effort, culture starts at the top. Superintendent Humphrey has invested heavily in creating a district where people feel supported, valued and empowered to do their best work.

The result is a workplace filled with people who genuinely care about each other, their profession and the communities they serve.

It's also no coincidence that the Port Stephens-Hunter Polar Bears have rallied together to raise such significant funds for Special Olympics Australia.

As we prepare for plunge day, we'd like to thank Detective Superintendent Humphrey not only for taking the plunge, but for helping create a culture that inspires others to do the same.

The communities of Port Stephens and Maitland are better for it. Our Police District is better for it.

And whether he's wielding a green pen, mentoring a young officer or preparing to take an icy dip for charity, one thing remains certain:

The Bear is still leading from the front 🐻‍❄️💙

Polar Bear Sergeant Anderson - A Lifetime of Service

Some people make a career out of helping others. For Polar Bear Sergeant Anderson, helping others is simply a way of life.

Having joined the NSW Police Force 37 years ago, Sergeant Anderson has dedicated almost four decades to serving the community, with 30 of those years spent policing the Port Stephens and Maitland Local Government Areas. Throughout that time, he has become a familiar face, a trusted leader and a respected mentor to countless police officers who have had the privilege of working alongside him.

Ask his colleagues about Sergeant Anderson and you'll hear the same themes repeated time and time again: dependable, humble, hardworking and selfless.

The qualities that make a great police officer aren't measured by rank or years of service. They are measured by character. By the willingness to help others, often without recognition. By showing up when people need support. By putting the needs of the community ahead of your own.

Sergeant Anderson has spent a lifetime doing exactly that.

Throughout his career, he has helped countless members of the public during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Yet despite the significant impact he has had on the communities of Port Stephens and Maitland, he has never sought praise or accolades. In fact, those who know him best would tell you he is happiest working quietly behind the scenes, simply getting on with the job.

His commitment to helping others doesn't end when he takes off the uniform.

Sergeant Anderson is a proud Lifeblood Champion who regularly rolls up his sleeve to donate blood, helping save lives in a different way. It's another example of the selfless service that has become synonymous with his character. While many people talk about making a difference, Sergeant Anderson consistently finds ways to do it.

Perhaps his proudest achievement, however, has nothing to do with policing.

He is the proud father of three beautiful daughters, who share his passion for helping others and making a positive contribution to their community. Family has always been at the heart of who he is, and those values of compassion, kindness and service have clearly been passed on to the next generation.

Now, after 37 years of serving others, Sergeant Anderson is once again stepping forward to help a worthy cause.

When the opportunity arose to participate in the Polar Plunge in support of Special Olympics Australia, it came as no surprise that he was willing to get involved. The icy waters may be a challenge, but supporting people and strengthening communities is something Sergeant Anderson has been doing his entire life.

As he prepares to take the plunge, we'd like to take a moment to celebrate a man who has spent nearly four decades serving his community with humility, integrity and heart.

Whether it's protecting the public, mentoring younger officers, donating blood, supporting his family or fundraising for a worthy cause, Sergeant Anderson continues to demonstrate what service truly looks like.

We're incredibly proud to have Polar Bear Sergeant Anderson representing our district in this year's Polar Plunge.

Good luck, Sergeant Anderson, and thank you for once again stepping up to help others. 🐻‍❄️💙

Polar Bear Sergeant Annie - Running Towards Every Opportunity to Help Others

We've all met people who have a remarkable ability to make life better for those around them.

Sergeant Annie is one of those people.

Having joined the NSW Police Force 23 years ago, Annie has spent the majority of her career serving communities throughout the Newcastle-Hunter Region. During that time, she has built a reputation as a dedicated police officer, trusted colleague and loyal friend whose kindness extends far beyond the workplace.

Those who know Annie know she doesn't do things by halves.

Whether it's her commitment to policing or her passion for long-distance running, she approaches every challenge with determination and heart. In fact, she recently achieved a major personal milestone by completing her very first marathon, proving that persistence, resilience and a positive mindset can carry you a very long way.

Fortunately for her fellow officers, Annie's dedication doesn't end there.

She's also well known for keeping the troops fuelled, regularly spending her own time baking treats for colleagues. Whether it's a busy shift, a challenging day or simply an opportunity to brighten someone's mood, Annie is often the person bringing people together through her thoughtfulness and generosity.

When she's not running kilometres or baking for the team, Annie's compassion is just as evident through her love of animals. A devoted dog lover and passionate advocate for animal welfare, she genuinely cares about the wellbeing of all creatures great and small. It's yet another example of the caring nature that makes her so valued by those around her.

But perhaps Annie's greatest quality is her enormous heart.

She is the type of person who consistently puts the needs of others before her own. Loyal, creative and endlessly thoughtful, she is often found making handmade gifts for friends, supporting colleagues and finding ways to make someone else's day a little brighter.

It's these qualities that made her an obvious choice when it came to the Polar Plunge.

In reality, we didn't have to ask twice.

When the opportunity arose to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics Australia, we knew Annie would be on board. Supporting others is simply part of who she is.

On Sunday 2 August, Annie will join her fellow Polar Bears as they brave the freezing waters in support of a cause that creates opportunities, promotes inclusion and changes lives for athletes with intellectual disabilities.

It won't be easy. But if completing a marathon has taught Annie anything, it's how to embrace a challenge and keep moving forward.

We're incredibly proud to have Polar Bear Sergeant Annie representing the Port Stephens-Hunter Police District.

Whether she's serving the community, supporting her colleagues, caring for animals, baking for the team or plunging into icy water for charity, Annie continues to demonstrate what it means to lead with compassion.

Good luck, Annie, and thank you for once again stepping up to help others. 🐻‍❄️💙

Polar Bear Detective Sergeant Matt - A Lifetime of Looking After Others

Polar Bear Constable Mia: Making Waves On and Off Duty

Polar Bear Sergeant Cook - Bringing the Fun, Taking the Plunge

Ever met a person that lights up a room the moment they walk into it?

For those fortunate enough to know Sergeant Cook, affectionately known as "Cooky", that's exactly the effect she has.

While her official role sees her working within the intelligence space, you'd be forgiven for wondering whether she missed her true calling as a stand-up comedian. Armed with a quick wit, impeccable timing and a personality larger than life, Cooky has an uncanny ability to bring laughter and positivity wherever she goes.

In fact, if there was an award for boosting workplace morale, she'd have it wrapped up.

Whether it's a perfectly timed joke, a humorous observation or one of her legendary practical jokes, Cooky has a talent for making people smile. Her infectious laugh has become something of a trademark within the Port Stephens-Hunter Police District, and it's safe to say many difficult days have been made easier thanks to her ability to find joy in the moment.

But behind the humour is someone with an enormous heart.

Long before agreeing to become one of our Polar Bears, Cooky had built a reputation for giving back to her community. Fundraisers, charity events, community initiatives, team activities, if there's an opportunity to help others, chances are Cooky has already put her hand up. She's the sort of person who rarely needs convincing when it comes to supporting a good cause. In fact, she's usually first in line.

That's exactly why it came as no surprise when she agreed to take part in this year's Polar Plunge in support of Special Olympics Australia.

And of course, anyone who knows Cooky also knows she isn't afraid of a challenge.

Thankfully, all those kilometres spent pounding the pavement as a keen long-distance runner should have her in peak condition for plunge day. Because while the icy water will be challenge enough, there are rumours circulating around the district that The Boss may be looking for a little light-hearted payback.

After years of being on the receiving end of Cooky's good-natured jokes and cheeky sense of humour, some suspect the Boss may be keeping a close eye on the 2 of August.

Will Cooky confidently stride into the water?

Will she be distracted by one last joke?

Or will she find herself unexpectedly taking an early plunge before she sees it coming?

No one knows for sure. What we do know is that whatever happens on the day, there will be plenty of laughter, plenty of smiles and, most importantly, support for an incredibly worthy cause.

While we love Cooky for the fun and energy she brings to our workplace, we're equally grateful for her generosity, compassion and willingness to help others. The same qualities that make her such a valued colleague are the qualities that make her such a passionate supporter of community fundraising initiatives.

So as Cooky prepares to take on the freezing waters, we'd love your support.

Please join us in wishing Polar Bear Sergeant Cook all the very best for her plunge and consider making a donation to help support Special Olympics Australia.

After all, it's not every day you get the chance to support a great cause and watch one of the district's biggest personalities take an icy dip for charity.

Good luck, Cooky. We'll be cheering you on... and keeping an eye on the Boss. 🐻‍❄️💙

Polar Bear Constable Ryan Formosa: Proudly Serving the Community That Raised Him

Some people are drawn to policing. For Polar Bear Constable Ryan, it seems he was born for it.

Having joined the NSW Police Force just two years ago, Ryan has quickly built a reputation as an officer who embodies everything the profession stands for. Diligent, trustworthy, kind and caring, he approaches every interaction with genuine compassion and an unwavering commitment to serving others.

As a proud local of the Port Stephens community, Ryan understands the importance of giving back. Growing up in the Port Stephens LGA, he always wanted to serve the community that had supported him throughout his life. They say it takes a village to raise a child, and Port Stephens certainly played its part in helping shape the outstanding young man and police officer Ryan has become.

Despite his relatively short time in the job, Ryan's maturity, professionalism and dedication have already left a lasting impression on both his colleagues and supervisors. Earlier this year, he was recognised with the Port Stephens-Hunter Protect Serve & Honour Award, having been nominated by his peers for demonstrating the values and beliefs of the district. While Ryan would likely shy away from the spotlight, the recognition serves as just one example of the respect he has earned from those who work alongside him every day.

What truly defines Ryan, however, is his willingness to step forward whenever an opportunity arises to help others.

When he was approached about participating in the Polar Plunge to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics Australia, there was no hesitation. Ryan immediately put his hand up, eager to support a cause that changes lives for athletes with intellectual disabilities and promotes inclusion, opportunity and community spirit.

From the Soccer Field to the Streets of Maitland: Meet Polar Bear Constable Reece!

🔥 The PSH Polar Bears Are On Fire — Meet Polar Bear Senior Constable Alison Stewart

If you’ve spent any time in the Port Stephens–Hunter Police District, you already know the name Senior Constable Alison Stewart. And if you don’t — you’re about to meet one of the most dedicated, community‑driven, and downright legendary officers in NSW.

Alison has been serving the Maitland and Port Stephens–Hunter communities for what feels like forever — the kind of “since the beginning of time” dedication that only comes from someone who truly lives and breathes policing. She’s the officer who shows up, stands up, and never gives up. The kind of officer who makes you proud to say, “She’s one of ours.”

And the community agrees.

In 2024, Alison was awarded the prestigious Police Officer of the Year, recognising her exceptional service, leadership, and impact. Then, this year, Port Stephens Council honoured her as 'Woman of the Year', celebrating her tireless work supporting vulnerable people, strengthening community safety, and mentoring the next generation of women and officers alike.

To say she’s an icon is an understatement. To say she’s an idol barely scratches the surface.

Alison is the kind of officer who makes policing look like a calling, not a job.

And now? She’s taking the Polar Plunge.

Because of course she is.

When there’s a chance to help people, Alison doesn’t hesitate — even when it involves diving into icy water in the middle of winter.

For Alison, it’s simple: If jumping into freezing water helps someone else feel supported, included, and empowered — she’s in.

Her selflessness, generosity, and willingness to go above and beyond are exactly why she’s loved across this district. The Polar Plunge is just the latest example of her heart for the community.

Why Alison’s Plunge Matters

Every dollar raised helps Special Olympics athletes:

• Build confidence

• Find belonging

• Access life‑changing sporting opportunities

• Experience independence and pride

These athletes show courage every day. Alison is plunging to honour that courage — and to help fuel it.

Let’s Back Alison Like She Backs Us

The PSH Polar Bears are already making waves, but Alison’s involvement is a chance for our community to rally behind someone who has given so much of herself for so many years.

If Alison has ever:

• Helped you

• Supported your family

• Protected your community

• Inspired you

• Or simply made you proud to live in this district…

Now is the moment to show your support.

Donate. Share. Spread the word. Help Alison make a splash that truly changes lives.

Because when a woman like Alison Stewart takes the plunge, the least we can do is help make the landing a little softer — and the impact a whole lot bigger.

Courage in the Cold - Honour in the Cause

This year, we’re taking the plunge - literally. We’re jumping into icy water as part of the Law Enforcement Torch Run’s Polar Plunge, raising funds for Special Olympics in Australia.

Why? Because every Australian deserves the opportunity to experience the joy, confidence and connection that sport brings.

Special Olympics Australia provides year-round sports training and competition for people with intellectual disability and/or autism. Through sport, athletes build skills, friendships, independence and belief in themselves - and that impact extends far beyond the playing field.

By supporting our Polar Plunge, you’re helping:

• Fund inclusive sports programs across Australia
• Provide coaching, equipment and competition opportunities
• Create communities where everyone belongs
• Break down barriers and build a more inclusive Australia

Yes, it will be cold … very cold. But it’ll be worth it!

If you can, please donate and help our team reach our fundraising goal. Every dollar makes a difference.

Together, we’re freezin’ for a reason. Thanks for your support!