I established ‘Saltwater Rosie’ with the aim of making the ocean accessible by reducing barriers to the ocean through my photography and books.

I have always loved saltwater and sharing my passion of the ocean with others. I grew up free-diving and scuba-diving from a young age, exploring the reefs of Papua New Guinea and Australia. I have more recently been active in ocean-swimming, taking on the challenge of swimming with my camera in my hand so as not to miss a moment of intrigue in the saltwater. To date, the furthest I’ve swum with my camera is 20km around Great Keppel Island, Qld.

Outside of saltwater and photography pursuits, I work as a paediatric physiotherapist for children with brain and spinal cord injuries. I am inspired everyday as I witness how children and families challenge barriers in order to live a life that is meaningful.

I am proud to be a swim guide for completely blind athlete & adventurer, Gerrard Gosens. I participated in his English Channel crossing attempt, as depicted in the 2024 documentary Changing Channels.

Taking Gerrard through the surf zone has it’s challenges. I am required to understand what the waves are doing and communicate that to Gerrard effectively under time pressure.

Through my photography I have extensively studied surf waves above and under the waterline. I use that knowledge to shape the experience I have on my ocean swims - with Gerrard and other ocean swimmers.

More recently I have combined my photography with my skills as surf guide swimmer to write WAVE LIFE.

It is my hope that WAVE LIFE increases your access to surf beaches, connecting you with the ocean regardless of where you live or your previous saltwater experiences.

See you in the waves!

Rosie Ning