Free Diver Tara Rawson Sets Female Australian Distance Record on Single Breath

Tara Rawson, a 31-year-old former Kimberley resident and now a yoga teacher and dietician, has made history by setting a new Australian female record in free diving. Recently, she dove to a staggering depth of 82 metres in a competition in Asia, all on a single breath. This achievement not only highlights her dedication but also showcases the mental and physical strength required for such an extreme sport.

Rawson's journey into free diving began when she was captivated by a free diver on a scuba diving trip to the Rowley Shoals, 260 kilometres west of Broome, off Western Australia's northern coast. The sight of a staff member gracefully moving through the water left her in awe, sparking her interest in the sport. Since then, she has trained rigorously, setting up a temporary base in Egypt and continuing to push her limits.

Free diving is not just a physical challenge; it also plays a significant role in improving mental health for many participants. Rawson explained that tension while diving can lead to increased oxygen usage and potential issues, emphasizing the need to relax and stay calm. Her recent dive lasted 2 minutes and 45 seconds, with the use of fins, and she noted that the ability to spend more time underwater has allowed her to connect deeply with the ocean.

Rawson is not only focused on her personal achievements but is also contributing to the community by co-founding the Kimberley Free Diving Club with Broome dive enthusiast Graham Makereth. The club, which has attracted around 140 members, aims to safely introduce people to free diving off Broome, taking into account local conditions and the presence of sharks. Makereth, a trained free-diving instructor, highlighted the importance of slow training techniques and acclimatization to ensure safety and success in the sport.

With three Australian national records in separate disciplines of free diving, Rawson continues to set the bar high. Her latest record in the Constant Weight with fins (CWT) category has solidified her position as a top performer. She plans to rest in Bali before returning to her base in Egypt, where she intends to continue her pursuit of new records. Her story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the transformative impact of extreme sports.