Thursday, 12 January 2012

Bunker Group -- January 2012

by Lauren Nielsen


The Bunker Group Liveaboard - what an INCREDIBLE way to start 2012! Five glorious days spent cruising around the southern tip of The Great Barrier Reef with great company in tow, and of course, the diving! It was also a good excuse to get my Advanced Adventurer qualification as it provides you with plenty of experience to practice and perfect your skills underwater, all while surrounded by beautiful coral landscapes.

It all began in Bundaberg Port under a setting sun as the final few boarded Big Cat Reality ready for an adventure I’m sure none of us will forget. Some unwelcome visitors showed up in the form of Midges, which are hard to see but do pack a punch, as one of us in particular (Dennis) would discover later on in the trip. After a yummy dinner of fish & chips at the Marina, we set off into the night toward our destination: The Great Barrier Reef.

The diving was fabulous with near perfect conditions the whole trip. It was great to see the diversity of fish and coral all flourishing in healthy abundance. My two favourite dives of the trip were at The Blowhole and Hiro’s Cave both situated off Lady Elliott Island. Descending through the top of The Blowhole and into the cabin was an amazing experience. With 25m+ visibility, it was definitely a highlight! Hiro’s Cave also turned out to be just as amazing. After following the anchor chain to the reef below, it was hard to miss the MASSIVE Maori Wrasse that swam by, as well as the bubbles filtering up through the roof of the cave which looked like little jewels glistening in the sun.

A big thanks to the Captain and crew of Big Cat Reality for providing delicious meals and keeping us well fed, and for the tireless efforts they put into running the ship. An even bigger thanks to Snorkel Safari Brisbane for organizing and planning the trip and AA course, and to both Aaron and Colin
for keeping the team safe. You guys made everything so easy! Finally, a special mention to my dive buddy for the week, Kurt. I am so lucky to have shared this adventure with you, thanks for looking out for me. Hands down one of the most extraordinary experiences of my life…I can't wait to use my new qualification!!!

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