Project aims to educate recreational divers

A new project is under way to develop best-practice guidelines for zero-impact diving, particularly in protected marine environments.

The project, led by researchers from Southern Cross University’s National Marine Science Centre, is being supported by the Northern Rivers Catchment Management Authority (NRCMA) and Jetty Dive, a Coffs Harbour dive operator.

During the past two months Dr Steve Dalton and Dr Andrew Carroll have been monitoring the interactions between divers and the marine life they encounter, in particular incidental contact with the bottom that may lead to accidental damage of marine life.

“Many divers are attracted to dive sites that are within sanctuary zones, which afford maximum protection, and are often the most diverse in terms of corals and fish life. This project raises awareness of the unique marine environment found within the Solitary Islands Marine Park and encourages divers to take photos and only leave bubbles,” Dr Dalton said.

“The feedback from divers who have participated in this project has been very positive. They have a reasonable level of awareness about the importance of marine conservation and are very keen to learn more about marine parks and passive diving techniques that can improve diver experience and mitigate incidental interactions with local marine life,” Dr Carroll said.

Mark Asquith, from the NRCMA, said: “Key to NRCMA’s strategic approach towards implementing sustainable marine resource use is to support and fund projects like this; projects that develop, raise awareness and facilitate the use of current best practices by user groups, with great positive outcomes.”

The project is also supported by Zan Hammerton, a Southern Cross University PhD student who has been undertaking similar research with the assistance from Byron Bay Dive Centre and the Cape Byron Marine Park.

Using information gathered from Coffs Harbour and Byron Bay, the researchers are developing specific guidelines for diver activities and other educational tools, which will help inform the recreational diving community about the significance of this unique region and promote passive diving techniques.

Mike Davey, owner operator of Jetty Dive, said the project raised awareness within the recreational diving community.

“It encourages greater appreciation and respect of the unique marine environment found at our doorstep,” Mr Davey said.

For information about the project contact Steve Dalton at steve.dalton@nmsc.edu.au

Photo: Southern Cross University researchers are developing best-practice guidelines for recreational divers.