Blackhead - 20th October 2012

We set out from Forster marina at 8am through rolling seas, enjoying the company of whales and their calves all the way to Snapper Reef, about 45 minutes north of Forster. The morning was warm and sunny, with a blustery Nor-wester blowing strongly by the time we entered the water at 9:30am. Although we passed wracks of red-weed on our journey, the water was pleasantly clear, with around 10-15m visibility. Anchoring in barren reef at 16m, we proceeded with our marine debris surveys, finding a reel directly next to the anchor. Our search also turned up two complete fishing rods, only one of which was recovered. We finished our transects and exited the water, loot in hand. John then jumped in and found another couple of rods. The highlight were the large and inquisitive blue gropers, occasional corals and pretty seastars.

Left:Rachel and Heather set out the transect line. The wind had strengthened during our dive, now whipping the sea into white-caps. We headed south and surveyed a reef off Redhead, known as The Ridge. Slightly shallower, this undulating reef had more interesting benthic life, with gorgonian corals, sea tulips, zooanthids and large sponges. No debris to be had (always a good sign!), and not much fish-life to mention, but the whales were peeping and the underwater colours were beautiful. A bit chillier than the first dive, at 17deg, and enjoyed by all, except Zack, who was not feeling too good by this stage. Our trip back to Forster was the highlight of the day, with a spectacular aerial display by a baby humpback while his mum cruised by, less than 100m from the boat. The hot westerly wind had the mercury pushing 40deg by 1pm, our second heat wave day this spring! Thanks to John and Zack, from Action Divers, for a very enjoyable morning.