|
To top this off there were 10 eagle rays swimming over the wreck as well. The Gneering Shoals didn't miss out on the good conditions either. Crystal clear water and the sighting of a manta ray topped off the diving for the week.
The wind has destroyed things this weekend with 20+knots blowing. We managed to squeeze in a dive on Saturday morning but cancelled all other diving for the weekend....again!!!
The visibility has been on 20 metres all this week as it was on Saturday. 8 huge Queensland Grouper were spotted on the ship on this dive, what a sight!!!!
The down side of the flat seas is that there has been heaps of new fishing tackle found all over the ex HMAS BRISBANE. One sweetlip was hooked up and had wound the fishing line around one of the rails. He obviously couldn't free himself so died at his post. Kingfish have been spotted struggling as the try to swim carrying large metal lures around after being hooked up and breaking free, only to eventually exhaust themselves and/or starve to death. There have been some stirrings in high places and the promise of some very strict policing and heavy prosecutions for illegal linefishing and spearfishing the conservation park are on the way.
On a lighter note, thanks to Ron and Keith at South West Rocks Dive Centre for looking after the 18 divers who ventured down that way last weekend. All positive feedback. Heaps of Grey Nurse Sharks were spotted and photographed. The cave dive is a fantastic experience and all were on a high after venturing through it being careful not to kneel or bump a Wobbygong or frighten the heaps of crayfish in the cave.
The trip to Santo to dive the President Coolidge in May is now full with 16 divers waiting for "D" day. The trip to PNG in September is a goer. All spots on this one are full but we may be able to secure a couple more seats if anyone is still thinking about this trip. The trip to Tonga also in September has 6 spots filled already with another 4 places still available. Swimming with the whales is an experience not to be missed. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for the overseas trip next May. We are looking at options now.
Dive Safe!!! |
