The ceremony, performed by Orthodox Greeks across the world, blesses the sea when a silver cross is hurled into the water and young men swim to retrieve it.

Held on the Sunday closest to January 6, the day of Epiphany, the one who claims the cross ensures a happy and healthy year ahead for him and his loved ones.

Mr Cheros said his wife Marilen, and five-month-old daughter Adriana, had cheered him on and would benefit from the good fortune.

"We've just had a baby girl so we are really excited," he said.

Greek Orthodox Parish of Newcastle rector Father Nicholas Scordilis said the ceremony stems from the Mediterranean where Greeks would pray for calm waters and good weather, but Australian summers are more suited to the ritual than Greek winters.

"In this country it is no problem, rather a joy, to go out in the water," he said.

"We pray for the safety of our leaders of our country and the safety and progress of the Australian people."