Saltwater Cure

Beyond its reputation as a place of fond summer memories, the ocean offers significant physical benefits—reducing blood pressure, lowering cholesterol, boosting immunity, and even slowing signs of ageing. Yet, its impact extends far deeper than the physical.

Gripper highlights how the ocean serves as a balm for mental health, a source of connection for those feeling isolated, and a catalyst for building community and environmental stewardship. Through powerful personal accounts, the book introduces individuals whose lives have been profoundly transformed by the ocean. These include author Tim Winton, surfer and blue-health advocate Layne Beachley, conservationist and underwater cinematographer Valerie Taylor, and blind swimmer James Pittar. Other voices, such as First Nations scientist Chels Marshall, Swim Sisters founder Yusra Metwally, and solo sailor Jessica Watson, share their unique perspectives on how the ocean has provided solace, strength, and purpose.

Each story underscores the ocean’s ability to restore well-being, inspire resilience, and connect people with nature. For some, it has become a refuge during challenging times; for others, a lifelong passion for conservation has been ignited. Through these accounts, Gripper emphasises the importance of safeguarding this natural treasure, not just for its ecological significance but for its vital role in the lives of countless individuals.

Saltwater Cure is both a celebration of the ocean's transformative power and a call to action to protect it for future generations. It reminds us of the deep connections between nature and human well-being, inspiring readers to cherish and preserve the beauty of our seas.

About the author

Ali Gripper is an accomplished journalist who has contributed to some of Australia's most prominent newspapers and magazines, including The Sydney Morning Herald, Good Weekend, The Australian, Daily Telegraph, and Country Style, over a career spanning two decades. Her debut book, The Barefoot Surgeon (2018), published by Allen & Unwin, tells the inspiring story of Dr Sanduk Ruit, a Nepalese eye surgeon trained by the renowned Professor Fred Hollows. Dr Ruit has restored sight to over 130,000 people and is dedicated to eradicating avoidable blindness worldwide. A passionate ocean swimmer, Ali resides in Sydney with her son, an avid surfer.