Heavy rain in Melbourne, Victoria did not deter a dedicated crowd from attending the Blessing of the Waters ceremony at Frankston Pier on Monday, January 6.
Despite the smaller-than-usual turnout due to the weather, a significant number of faithful gathered, with the rain easing just in time for the event around 1pm.
Twelve participants braved the cold waters to retrieve the ceremonial cross. Ultimately, it was first-time diver Billi “Vasilli” Mitsou who succeeded.
Mitsou, from Clayton, had been at the pier since 11.30am and expressed his intention to participate in future ceremonies.
