We had a very civilized meeting time of 10AM for an ‘experienced divers’ trip to Nine Mile Reef off the Tweed Coast, where there had been lots of grey nurse sharks hanging around. There were rumours from other boats in the area that the current was rather brisk that morning, but when we arrived at the site it had calmed down significantly.

We kitted up, entered the water en-masse and decended while drifting towards the edge of the reef. There were lots of large ripples in the sand but no sharks. Uh-oh. Then out of the distance trundled a very sharky shape. As we headed along the reef wall we found more sharks, then more, and then even more. There must have been over 20 all hanging with their noses into the slight current. We continued along a small gully and then worked our way along the back of the reef, spotting some eagle rays and other critters before surfacing. During the surface interval we had hot soup to warm up and were entertained by several groups of whales that cruised past.

The second dive was a repeat of the first, followed by more whales on the trip back to shore. The day was finished off with hot chips and taste testing of homemade cider at the dive centre.

Thanks to Donna for organising her second trip in June, and to all of the crew at Tweed Sea Sports who looked after us so well.

Laura Bellis