Rip Current Heroes
The Documentary That Started a Movement
Rip Current Heroes was the spark that ignited our global rip current safety mission—a one-hour television special that captured the hearts of millions and set a new standard for beach safety storytelling. Years in the making and produced in partnership with National Geographic, this pioneering documentary aired on the National Geographic Channel in Australia on December 20, 2017.
As the first television documentary in the world to focus solely on rip current safety, the program delivered a powerful mix of science, emotion, and human courage. At its core is the groundbreaking research of Professor Rob Brander—known as “Dr. Rip”—whose engaging demonstrations and clear explanations gave audiences a whole new way of understanding the ocean.
But this isn’t just a story about science—it’s a story of sacrifice, survival, and everyday heroes. The documentary follows Australians who risked their lives to save strangers caught in deadly rips, and it shines a spotlight on the Fingal community in Northern New South Wales, whose grassroots safety initiative became a beacon of hope for small coastal towns.
Backed by National Geographic’s digital reach and an innovative media campaign, Rip Current Heroes reached over 645,000 people in its first six months—and continued to spread its message through Qantas and Jetstar’s in-flight entertainment. From lounge rooms to airplane cabins, it helped launch a national conversation and laid the foundation for a global movement.
