Stockton Surf Life Saving Club cancelled the event because of increased shark activity off the coast of Newcastle and changed water conditions in the harbour. 

Stockton Surf Life Saving Club president Callan Nickerson said the club needed to be cautious. 

‘‘As a lifesaving club, we are committed to maintaining a safe environment for the public,’’ he said.

‘‘It is unfortunate that the swim has to be cancelled as it has become the key event for Newcastle on Australia Day, but safety for competitors and water safety personnel is the most important factor.’’ 

The Newcastle Harbour Swim is Stockton Surf Life Saving Club’s major fund-raiser for the year. 

Money raised from the swim is used to buy safety equipment to be used by club’s patrol volunteers. 

Mr Nickerson said the harbour swim would return in 2016.