The world’s biggest annual cliff diving event will arrive on Australian shores for the first time, with the grand finale of the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series taking place at the Royal Botanic Garden in Sydney this Saturday, 15 October.

Since kicking off 4 June in Boston, the 13th season of the extreme sports event has so far visited Paris, Copenhagen, Oslo, Mostar, Sisikon, and Polignano a Mare in southern Italy, and will now conclude with a first-ever visit to Australia.

Representing 18 nations, 24 of the world’s best cliff divers will compete for the coveted King Kahekili Trophy at this Saturday’s finale. These 12 men and 12 women will dive from a purpose-built 27-metre platform which has been constructed just off Bennelong Point, with a spectacular backdrop featuring the Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House. It is the first time the event has used an entirely artificial ‘cliff’ and spectators will be able to see all the action from the Fleet Steps at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair or via boat.

Currently in first place is Australia’s own cliff diving superstar, Rhiannan Iffland. Conquering oceans, rivers, lakes and harbours, the five-time winner will compete on her home turf to defend her title and claim an incredible sixth win in the tournament.

Athletic, daring and graceful, cliff diving is deemed to be the oldest extreme sport in the world with the freefall being the equivalent of eight storeys, combining acrobatics and exceptional skill and concentration without any protection. The Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series has been running since 2009 with a world series for women introduced in 2014.

To celebrate the event’s first time in Australia, event partner Mad Mex will be running a pop-up with special promotions on the day including a hidden ‘Golden Burrito’ treasure hunt in the Royal Botanic Garden. Hints will be dropped on Mad Mex’s facebook and Instagram with a year’s worth of free Mad Mex up for grabs.