Aussie rides rare 'tidal race' wave in mesmerising footage

An Aussie jet skier has been filmed in King Sound, Western Australia, riding a rare phenomenon known as a 'tidal race'. 

The incredible event only happens a few times a year and produces standing waves up to 12 metres high and whirlpools up to 762 metres across. It's caused by water coming into the mouth of King Sound from the Indian Ocean. 

The footage is believed to be the first captured of someone riding the waves, and was taken by local Kevin Pearce. He filmed Tybias Smith, 26, riding the jet ski. 

In the footage, Smith can be seen riding on the crest of a wave, while being chased by a series of waves. From the sky it may look very serene, but tidal waves can be some of the most dangerous to ride and expert knowledge is needed to take advantage of one. 

King Sound is one of Australia's largest watercourses, about 120 kilometres long and 50 kilometres wide. It has the highest tides in Australia, and among the highest in the world.