Tales of a Diver: Profundus Obscurus Sordidus

by Luke McCulloch, Maddison Moutia (Illustrator)

This gripping memoir takes you behind the scenes of the experiences as a Police Diver, offering a real insight into the challenges and triumphs of this unique role.

Follow Luke “Macca” McCulloch and the Western Australian Water Police Dive Squad through a series of dive jobs over a 10-day period. The team travels from Perth to Geraldton, Esperance and Denmark to assist with search and rescue jobs, locating missing evidence and even come in contact with a Great White or two.

Dive into the profound impact that policing and underwater operations can have on personal lives and mental health. It’s a heartfelt exploration of resilience, camaraderie, and the often-unseen toll of serving on the front lines.

Genres: Biography

203 pages, Paperback

Published April 15, 2025

Reviews

[Scott Todd · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great read giving a great insight into the world of a police diver and the world and environment in which they work. “Macca” has an easy to read style that is authentic and natural. It’s a tough job, but we are thankful for people like Macca and his team.

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting read on a topic we hear little about - Tales of a (Police) Diver. Luke talks about the process of becoming a Police Diver in Perth, Western Australia…and goes on to share his insider’s knowledge of a hectic 10 day period in his career. It’s written in a blokey style, is definitely not literature - he’d be the first to confess that….. it could use some good editing and proof reading…..but there’ll be plenty of people who will love this tale. Good on you Luke for starting and finishing this project.

[Bennie]

Good account of the lives of first responder rescue divers in Australia and their responsibilities as recovery personnel when swimmers/divers are attacked in the water or have life threatening/fatal accidents. The author follows his dive team on efforts to find a missing diver from an accident where he falls off a cliff and another diver who is attacked by a shark. This shows perspectives from the divers, missing individuals family members and others.

[Amie Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic. Had me hooked and read it in one sitting.

From the training days to get into dive squad through to what I can only imagine being the most horrendous two weeks in the job. Thanks Luke for sharing your story!

[Niamh Hegney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can’t wait for the second book (hint hint). I could not stop reading this I did not put it down. Best book I’ve read in a while.

[Ilan Joffe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full disclosure: I know Macca however he's awesome, this book is awesome, and you should read it

[Megan Leckey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Had the privilege of meeting Luke through work and his book is fantastic. An easy read and really opens up to an area of the force many wouldn’t think about. Great work!