My rookie era: I’m learning to swim in the ocean, braving the waves and marine life

The guardian | 14:00 05-01-2026 | Lifestyle

I’ve swum and squealed alongside enormous blue gropers, tiny stingrays, silver and striped fish and even a Port Jackson shark

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I’ve wanted to be an ocean swimmer ever since I moved to Sydney. The idea of getting out past the waves and braving the elements excited me. I would tell anyone who would listen: “Once I live closer to the beach, I’m going to be out there. Just you wait.”

I’ve lived walking distance to the beach for more than a year now. During this time, I’ve read a lot about ocean swimming: how swimmers overcame challenges or life-altering moments. I even listened to a podcast on how to face your fears in the ocean.