For the truly dedicated open water swimmer, Tasmania's "Wild West Series" offers an extraordinary and challenging 9-day adventure. This meticulously organised and all-inclusive experience promises a deep dive into Tasmania's most remote and breathtaking aquatic landscapes.
The series comprises three epic swims, each with its unique character and a history of pioneering achievements:
The Gordon River presents a 24.5km odyssey from St. Johns Falls to Heritage Landing. This pristine waterway, flowing through ancient World Heritage-listed rainforest, offers an unparalleled immersion in raw wilderness. The water is often cold and dark, reflecting the towering Huon pines that line its banks. This challenging swim has seen only one recorded finisher: Val Kalmikovs, who completed it on February 23, 2024.
Next, the 21km swim on Lake Pedder invites swimmers to navigate its "Scotland-like" expanses, weaving through islands amidst rugged ranges. While Lake Pedder is now a vast impoundment, it retains a wild and serene beauty. This specific 21km course, designed to truly capture the lake's unique features, remains an untamed frontier in open water swimming – no one has yet officially completed it.
Finally, the 22.5km journey from the Tasman Bridge to the Iron Pot Lighthouse offers a dynamic course from urban fringes to the wild Southern Ocean. This iconic swim has been successfully completed by at least five individuals, including Rod Watkins who was the first recorded solo swimmer on February 12, 2022.
This "Wild West Series" is more than just a swim; it's an intimate connection with Tasmania's untamed heart, designed for those who seek the ultimate challenge in open water amidst unparalleled natural beauty.