While they're used to doing tough things, jumping into the Merewether Baths in the middle of winter is going to be a shock to the system for the 12 Port Stephens-Hunter Police officers taking part in the polar plunge.
The challenge, which will see police officers and community members from across the Hunter take the plunge into the chilly baths on Sunday, August 2, is raising money for Special Olympics Australia.
It will be the first time taking the polar plunge, run by the Law Enforcement Torch Run, for Sergeant Sally Hatch.
"It'll be exciting, I don't think any of our team have done it before so we're looking forward to it, but we're not looking forward to it," she said.
"They've promised us there's some warm showers there afterwards.
"It's for a worthy cause so we don't mind."
Sergeant Hatch said the Port Stephens-Hunter officers showed huge interest in doing the plunge, and if they didn't choose to cap it at 12 places the district could easily send 50 officers.
Port Stephens-Hunter Police District Commander Superintendent Wayne Humphrey, who will also be taking the plunge for the first time, said it's typical of this police command that so many would want to be a part of the fundraiser.
"They work really, really hard, it's a tough area to work," he said.
"It's no secret about how much DV and other crime we have, but they're just a really connected bunch of people and actually enjoy each other's company."
So far, the Port Stephens-Hunter team is topping the Newcastle plunge leaderboard with more than $8000 raised.
"It has been just such a great result, it shows not just our PD and our policing community, but our wider community between Port Stephens and Maitland LGAS and what they've done to contribute as well," Sergeant Hatch said.
"I'm really proud of this PD and really proud of the community as well for getting behind us to support it without any hesitation."
Money raised for Special Olympics Australia will help create more opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities or autism to train, compete and build lifelong friendships through sport.
Donations can be made at www.polarplunge.sydney/Regional_Plunges/Newcastle.
