Our Team
Patrick Smithson
Owner and Operator
Meet Patrick Smithson – a man whose story is one of transformation and discovery. Born and raised in rural NSW, Patrick initially began his career in the construction industry. But in his mid-20s, he found his true calling – the ocean. Starting as a cook in the Whitsundays, he quickly realized that his love for the ocean was much more than a passing fancy.
In 2005, Patrick acquired his dive instructor certification, and for years, he worked as an instructor, taking students on daily explorations of the Great Barrier Reef. His love for the ocean only grew stronger, and in 2010, Patrick moved to Cape Tribulation, where he continued to share his passion for the ocean with his students.
In 2015, Patrick established his own underwater photography business in Cairns, which he runs successfully to this day. This venture allowed him to capture the beauty of the ocean, sharing it with the world and further fueling his passion for the water.
But Patrick’s thirst for adventure and his desire to challenge himself led him to explore new horizons. In 2018, he decided to train as a freedive instructor, which changed his life forever. He fell in love with the breathwork and mind-body control that came with freediving, and this passion led him to become a freedive instructor trainer in 2022. Patrick now inspires his students to become more in tune with their bodies and strengthen their love for the water.
Patrick’s journey is a testament to the power of following your passions and discovering what truly makes you come alive. His love for the ocean has taken him on an incredible adventure, and he continues to inspire others to follow their hearts and pursue their dreams.
Kozel Carthew
General Manager
Meet Kozel Carthew, a passionate Photographer & Videographer. In 2015, Kozel discovered a passion for photography, a craft that would soon become the canvas for his creative expression. Eager to expand his skill set, he delved into videography, pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling. His work reflects not just technical proficiency but also the enthusiasm he brings to every project.
Kozel’s commitment to fitness led him to a fulfilling career as a fitness coach, where he inspired others to embrace a healthier lifestyle. For over three years, he dedicated himself to helping individuals achieve their fitness goals, leaving a lasting impact on those he coached.
Fueling his love for exploration, Kozel embarked on a journey that took him to various corners of the globe. During his travels, he lent his creative prowess to brands, resorts, and tour agencies, crafting compelling content that resonated with audiences worldwide. This period of globetrotting not only enriched Kozel’s portfolio but also broadened his perspective on the diversity of cultures and landscapes.
Kozel’s connection to the ocean runs deep. From a young age, he has been drawn to the sea, engaging in free diving as a means of connecting with the underwater world. In September 2022, he took the plunge into scuba diving and underwater photography with Scubabo. The experience was transformative, capturing his heart and igniting a passion for documenting the mesmerizing beauty beneath the surface.
Fast forward to the present, and Kozel is not just a participant but a leader within the Scubabo Cairns team. As a certified dive instructor and the photography training manager, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of underwater photographers and dive masters.
Our team
Feeling Creative?
UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHY INTERNSHIP
Unlock your potential as an underwater photographer with our diving internship program! Designed for those who already hold an open water certification, our program teaches you everything you need to know to become a professional underwater photographer.
But that’s not all – we also teach you the ins and outs of diving, so that you can acquire your dive master certification and take your skills to the next level. Don’t miss this opportunity to dive deep and explore the beauty of the underwater world while developing valuable photography and diving skills!