Before Dr Elsa even takes her freezing winter dip tomorrow, the incredible warmth and generosity of the community have already carried the Cluny Animal Trust past its fundraising goal to build and equip a life-saving new isolation ward for animals in need!
Eastern Free State, South Africa (03 July 2026) – There are just a few more hours to go before Dr Elsa van Biljon, the Cluny Animal Trust’s principal veterinarian, takes a plunge into the iciest water in support of vulnerable animals desperately in need.
The Polar Bear Plunge is the biggest annual fundraiser for the Cluny Animal Trust, and Dr Elsa is famous for braving the freezing winter elements herself to champion the cause that gives so many four-legged friends the veterinary care, food and support they need in the communities of the eastern Free State.
And thanks to the generosity and support of South Africans, this year’s cold adventure will all be worth it!
Thanks to every single person who has sponsored Dr Elsa’s swim happening tomorrow, the Cluny Trust has already surpassed its fundraising target, raising a staggering R54,300 so far!
“This means we can build our isolation ward and start kitting it out, bringing us one step closer to providing the care that so many vulnerable animals desperately need,” the Trust excitedly shared online.
The fundraiser brings the community together to watch daredevils plunge into an ice-cold dam to raise money for a great cause. Because Cluny receives no government or lottery funding, they rely entirely on events like this to keep their mobile clinics running, sterilise and vaccinate thousands of pets, and provide veterinary care to impoverished communities.
The Cluny team sent out a special thank you to Dr Ockert Botha from VetsBrands Pty Ltd and VetScripts, whose phenomenal R10,000 sponsorship helped the charity cross the fundraising target line.
“Your kindness and belief in our mission mean more than words can express. To every person, business and supporter who donated, shared, encouraged, and who is cheering us on – THANK YOU! Together, you’re helping us create something truly life-changing for animals of the eastern Free State. Now let’s all get behind Dr Elsa as she takes on her epic Polar Bear Plunge tomorrow!”
The 2026 Polar Bear Plunge takes place at the Arpa Adventure Farm in Fouriesburg, featuring live music, food, and plenty of frozen, shivering participants all doing it for the animals!
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Sources: Cluny Animal Trust
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