Surf cameraman John “Gordo” Gordon’s quick thinking and bravery saved a woman from drowning at Fingal Head in a daring rescue.

Gordo, a highly experienced surf cameraman, noticed the woman, Olivia, struggling in the water as she was caught in a rip near the rocks. In a split second, he jumped in to save her, navigating treacherous waves and backwash to bring her safely back to shore.

Interviewed by Ben Fordham, Gordo said “The only guy going to save her is me, and it’s the last place you want to go. But just being a good human, I didn’t have a choice, mate.”

Both Gordo and Olivia were thankful for the outcome, with Gordo saying the incident gave him a new lease on life after a challenging period. “Not only did I rescue Olivia, I think I’ve rescued myself. I’ve got a new lease on life, mate.”