tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40799357265609852702024-03-13T17:00:47.693+08:00Scuba JunkieScuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.comBlogger62125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-29843801064882920442020-02-15T12:06:00.000+08:002020-02-15T12:06:59.833+08:00Amazing macro diving off Kota Kinabalu<div style="text-align: left;">
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<u><span style="color: blue;"><b>Macro Mania! </b></span></u></div>
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Here in Kota Kinabalu we have a wide range of dive sites & among them you can also find lots of macro. The term macro means large in scale & is a term used in relation to small creatures because photographers use macro lenses to allow them to take big close up images of the minuscule animals. Marco is now used widly in the diving community for dives that do not focus on the big stuff.<br />
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Experienced photographers come seeking smaller inhabitants of the reefs around Kota Kinabalu.<br />
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The underwater world really got into the festive spirit this year, providing us with a wealth of gifts in small and colourful packages. Our staff and guests have spotted some incredible critters in the past month.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeEaxiBJkhv8027CZvQ4VTce6FH6DH06uR8xrdm7BEKUeUSvWwdasaK-t7sNdnlC28O5cGGRQ0H_XO5aKtyOp5iLA-ahEyKkjoBTRWjRvc60B8jQKi3pNPDDl7ReV2uXl8KfC4lBpt70oO/s1600/20200111_102924.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1035" data-original-width="1600" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeEaxiBJkhv8027CZvQ4VTce6FH6DH06uR8xrdm7BEKUeUSvWwdasaK-t7sNdnlC28O5cGGRQ0H_XO5aKtyOp5iLA-ahEyKkjoBTRWjRvc60B8jQKi3pNPDDl7ReV2uXl8KfC4lBpt70oO/s320/20200111_102924.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anna's chromodoris nudibranch </td></tr>
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A patient search & the help of our eagle eyed dive guides and you will find some amazing reef dwellers! Among them could be Nudibranchs, shrimps, crabs, pipefish, frogfish, stonefish & so much more!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxSJsCEN5MPHIksSFcNU9DrI2PJv2spkVggWQZeMpoH0-kShzPMGbAzeQ6SdTCGEurmuUSYM8ZM1e_ZVUJ96_kzNZk357lGkIoigMgK5L03rmS2ck89sF-WaW7zNg44bd7NJdneWtRZOtM/s1600/20200111_102955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1026" data-original-width="1600" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxSJsCEN5MPHIksSFcNU9DrI2PJv2spkVggWQZeMpoH0-kShzPMGbAzeQ6SdTCGEurmuUSYM8ZM1e_ZVUJ96_kzNZk357lGkIoigMgK5L03rmS2ck89sF-WaW7zNg44bd7NJdneWtRZOtM/s320/20200111_102955.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #191919; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Slow moving marine life has a huge attraction for photographers, allowing for plenty of time to perfect that shot! </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #191919; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> Nudibranchs hold a special appeal due to the large number of different species, colours, patterns and their inability to go anywhere in a hurry! </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Magnificent Anemone Shrimp<br />
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Waiting for the perfect shot of these cute anemone shrimp while they are cleaning away!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spotted Porcelain crab</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scorpion Fish<br />
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You will often find scorpion fish hiding away in tube coral, or just camouflaged against a rocky wall!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lovely headsheild slug</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bubble coral shrimp</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Qa6ZV2_LXDAdBHy62NXOmGuiB0WLd57hM-yHTc-Xv9TIbqpYSUZN6PbUvxuxKmnwSrU6iUZJTYUrD994oLO5SbuNA208DqBIc-HGnLWQqP2-dmP3CFwq4j2vciLCPqGv1FchLR0bQdiH/s1600/P8310043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Qa6ZV2_LXDAdBHy62NXOmGuiB0WLd57hM-yHTc-Xv9TIbqpYSUZN6PbUvxuxKmnwSrU6iUZJTYUrD994oLO5SbuNA208DqBIc-HGnLWQqP2-dmP3CFwq4j2vciLCPqGv1FchLR0bQdiH/s320/P8310043.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orangutan crab</td></tr>
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One of my favourites & apt for Borneo, these tiny cute Orangutan crabs are often found on bubble coral, there carapace is so small & has extra long arms compared to its body. It has red/orange fluffy hair, the crab just chills around waiting for plankton to get stuck in its luscious locks & then uses its claws to groom & pick it out for a snack for the day. </div>
Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-27122892225708025042019-12-14T13:30:00.001+08:002019-12-14T13:30:31.089+08:00Paradise Islands off Kota Kinabalu<br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park (TARP) also nick named the KK Marine Park features 5 beautiful islands Gaya, Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik and Sulug. This famous marine park has been a marine park for more then 40 years and its marine life is carefully monitored and protected by Sabah Parks. As a result this area is home to thousands of schooling fish, pristine coral reefs, cool creepy critters such as Frogfish, Octopus, Sea horses, Orangutan crabs and much more! We also have some of the larger marine life such as Turtles, Black Tip Reef Sharks, Eagle rays, Cowtail Rays and even during Spring season the Whale Sharks sometimes come and visit.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">All types of divers are welcome here, it is a great place for beginners and also fantastic for experienced divers who want to do a bit of photography. We often have snorkelers too who enjoy the sites of the outer reef rather then the beach seeing much more and get a bit of island time between intervals.<span style="background-color: white;">There is something here to meet every divers and snorkelers tastes</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAOhry-q09Lh8TWbmYY2ikAOodJP1fLgAaRJpPrgmuUqtyigYIkVxqGpG2dZUBLnBdtb2Ngelpn0hw3aigV5yAwhTc902_7zz1uQMfUCb54wEcWawPXOEcSw44EY0egtm-mc1swdRgNwWP/s1600/WhatsApp+Image+2019-12-09+at+11.48.21+AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="464" data-original-width="1000" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAOhry-q09Lh8TWbmYY2ikAOodJP1fLgAaRJpPrgmuUqtyigYIkVxqGpG2dZUBLnBdtb2Ngelpn0hw3aigV5yAwhTc902_7zz1uQMfUCb54wEcWawPXOEcSw44EY0egtm-mc1swdRgNwWP/s320/WhatsApp+Image+2019-12-09+at+11.48.21+AM.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><u>Gaya Island</u></b><br />
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The largest island within the marine park and the closest to Kota Kinabalu. The name Gaya came from a Bajau word "Gayo"which means big. <span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The island is 3,700 acres in size and has an elevation of up to 300 meters. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> The island is covered in </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">dense tropical forest which is a forest reserve. On the island, there is a 20km long hiking path . There is great wildlife to be seen such as monitor lizards, bearded pigs and the beautiful hornbill birds. One of the popular sites of Gaya island is the legendary beach at Police Bay. There is a long stretch of white sand which slopes out gradually to the sea and make its a perfect spot for swimming and snorkelling in the crystal blue waters. The reefs around Gaya are still in great condition, making it a fantastic spot for diving. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "frutiger" , "univers" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">A mixture of shallow macro diving and shallow sloping walls full of coral reefs! Dive sites around this Island range from 5m-30m and offers some amazing macro life such as Frog Fish, Scorpion Fish, Lion Fish, Seahorses, Nudibranchʼs as well as larger marine life such as Turtles, Barracuda, Tuna and even Reef Sharks can be seen.</span><br />
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Sapi Island</span></u></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">Sapi means 'cow' and the </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">island</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"> is said to be shaped like a cow's head.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Known to be the most beautiful island within the KK marine park. Connected to Gaya via Zip line (a.k.a Flying Fox) which is 235 Meter-long 771 (feet), this is open to thrill seekers who want to fly across the ocean at a vast speed between the two islands, known as the Coral Flyer. This is the world's longest island to island zip line. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Sapi island is only 25 acres and the second smallest island of TARP. There is not only a wide variety of marine life, but on the island there are also Bearded pigs and monitor lizards. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Sapi offers some amazing white pristine beaches with fantastic reefs for diving. <span style="background-color: white;">Diving ranges from 8-25m and divers can expect to see Stingrays, Fusiliers, Crocodile Fish, Cuttlefish, Octopus, Moray Eels, lots of nudibranchs, Stone Fish and Anemone Fish plus much more</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #001245; font-family: frutiger, univers, "helvetica neue", helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: center;"> Photo of Gaya & Sapi island</span><br />
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<span style="color: #001245; font-family: frutiger, univers, "helvetica neue", helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><b><u>Manukan Island</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #001245; font-family: frutiger, univers, "helvetica neue", helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">This is the second largest island in TARP quite a popular island for our residents as it has long stretched of beautiful beach for relaxing on and snorkelling around. It is also covered with dense vegetation and has great hiking trails. </span><span style="font-family: Frutiger, Univers, "Helvetica Neue", helvetica, arial, sans-serif; text-align: center;">This Island has very healthy coral reefs teaming with many reef fish and you can even see the very rare and valuable Black Coral diving at this Island. Dive sites vary from 7-25m which makes this island ideal for all levels of divers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Frutiger, Univers, "Helvetica Neue", helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: center;"> Photo of Manukan, Mamutik & Sulug</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl9wnTg1g24BlO8pO7aspn9iDnUwqC6HM8X6nZBmGEj6NqM6fNvHmRZ7A9NGuWjkHf08hNvFPjko4SllWgOvIMwSm5A-_5Xhode7dnJWUHeXfXr3GDwdUCGUEOXDbsx7Sg3iZahu6znu4B/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-12-14+at+12.27.25+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="606" data-original-width="1063" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl9wnTg1g24BlO8pO7aspn9iDnUwqC6HM8X6nZBmGEj6NqM6fNvHmRZ7A9NGuWjkHf08hNvFPjko4SllWgOvIMwSm5A-_5Xhode7dnJWUHeXfXr3GDwdUCGUEOXDbsx7Sg3iZahu6znu4B/s320/Screen+Shot+2019-12-14+at+12.27.25+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Frutiger, Univers, "Helvetica Neue", helvetica, arial, sans-serif; text-align: center;"><b><u>Mamutik Island </u></b></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Frutiger, Univers, Helvetica Neue, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">This is the smallest island in the clusters of TARP at about 15 acres in size. However this island goes to show that size is not always everything! A peaceful and mesmerising island with a quiet beach to laze around on. The rich coral reefs are diverse in marine life.</span></span><span style="font-family: Frutiger, Univers, "Helvetica Neue", helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> Mamutik Island offers divers and snorkelers very healthy coral reefs teaming with a large variety of large and small reef fish. There are also lots of rare macro life such as Frog fish, Lion Fish, Leaf Fish, plus many more. This island is also home to a giant underwater statue of a Seahorse! The Island itself is like an Island post card with pristine white sandy beaches-most of our divers never want to leave</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Frutiger, Univers, "Helvetica Neue", helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><b><u>Sulug Island</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Frutiger, Univers, "Helvetica Neue", helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Located on the most southern tip of KK marine park Sulug is the most remote and least visited by tourists. It is around 20 acres. The island has no amenities, thus this island offers nature at its best! A long sand spit extending outwards into the ocean. </span><span style="font-family: Frutiger, Univers, "Helvetica Neue", helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The diving here is ranked among the best in the marine park with common sightings of sea snakes, turtles, rays, frog fish, morays, lots of nudibranchs, and the coral is pristine with an abundance of marine life-truly a divers haven. We highly recommend you dive here for your 2nd or 3rd day diving within the park.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Frutiger, Univers, Helvetica Neue, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">Our rich coral reefs in TARP </span></div>
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Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-43871393815581869332019-11-25T13:38:00.002+08:002019-11-25T13:38:49.969+08:00Why dive at Kota Kinabalu?<br />
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<span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Kota Kinabalu - the capital of Sabah - is a very unique city in Southeast Asia.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Being the main tourist hub for travellers flying into or out of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu (or simply KK as we like to call it) has a lot to offer that other cities across Southeast Asia don't. For example: the stunning Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park for diving & snorkelling just 15 minutes from the city centre; the mountainous 'Crocker Range' for trekking just 30 minutes away, including the famous 4095m high Mount Kinabalu 2 hours from KK; as well as white-water rafting, waterfalls, rainforests & beautiful beaches just 30 minutes away. Also, for being a fairly small city, KK conveniently has a large international airport just 10 minutes from the city centre.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Many divers & snorkellers visiting Sabah will fly into KK and visit our amazing sites in the </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> (TARP) for day trips.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">TARP consists of 5 beautiful islands (Gaya, Sapi, Mamutik, Manukan & Sulug) with picturesque white sandy beaches, just 15 minutes by speedboat from Jesselton Point jetty in KK's city centre.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">The above photo is of Islands Gaya & Sapi which are connected by a zip line if you are feeling </span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">adventurous</span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">! </span></span></span></div>
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The TARP has mixture of shallow macro diving & shallow sloping walls with beautiful coral reefs. Dive sites range from 5m-30m, you can see some fantastic marco life such as Shrimps, Crabs, Pipefish, Seahorses, Nudibranch's as well as larger marine life such as Turtles, Barracuda, Tuna, Eagle Rays & Black Tip Reef Sharks. </div>
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The Marine Park is ideal for all types of divers from beginners to the most experienced of Instructors. Around every corner is a hidden gem waiting for divers to discover! The outer reef's are also great for Non Divers to have a snorkel around seeing schools of reef fish & much much more, they can also be dropped off on the islands to explore the white sand surroundings. </div>
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Hope to see you soon for a fun filled trip in the Kota Kinabalu Marine Park!</div>
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Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-15514476367746152932017-09-12T15:46:00.002+08:002017-09-12T15:46:37.399+08:00The Semporna region - a photographer's paradise!The Semporna region has some of the best dive sites in the world so it is hardly surprising that many divers arrive with GoPro, point and shoot or full camera set up in hand! What exactly are these photography aficionados hoping to spot?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHe7xGZISXA8oGPjBywXIqFo70mp1mSXQ8EjSR3pWaTmd4hpjPEyGQ1wK2ZmPZAlRTzuHldNbmrMeGFDJdUhd5RVbQ6GNEfe9I-574O0QS5WGzmH28Sk2KMe3zsWAjGUfwanETqw_Q22ic/s1600/Turtle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="544" data-original-width="821" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHe7xGZISXA8oGPjBywXIqFo70mp1mSXQ8EjSR3pWaTmd4hpjPEyGQ1wK2ZmPZAlRTzuHldNbmrMeGFDJdUhd5RVbQ6GNEfe9I-574O0QS5WGzmH28Sk2KMe3zsWAjGUfwanETqw_Q22ic/s200/Turtle.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhDWZtrf-Jx7eLWLkGnWv0_nKiUtF8UJkkgdocnaF-M3KgN3mYp9lTCPCdubRF-D_qrbf9vAr7aFTruTPWzzq2_MUOOPBB1ft6fPKPSRO40mA6mj_44Q9o34fFvHurfBszG6WHydNn7Y4A/s1600/TH1_0837.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1061" data-original-width="1600" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhDWZtrf-Jx7eLWLkGnWv0_nKiUtF8UJkkgdocnaF-M3KgN3mYp9lTCPCdubRF-D_qrbf9vAr7aFTruTPWzzq2_MUOOPBB1ft6fPKPSRO40mA6mj_44Q9o34fFvHurfBszG6WHydNn7Y4A/s200/TH1_0837.jpg" width="200" /></a><b><u>The "big stuff" </u></b><br />
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For many divers, the main goal of their dives will be the "big stuff", they will come seeking sharks, turtles, rays and schooling barracudas and will not be disappointed! The turtles around Mabul are plentiful and not shy! They will usually be happy to pose whilst you snap away and you may even be rewarded with a smile! Sharks can be trickier due to their lack of interest in staying still! White tip sharks and leopard sharks are amongst the easier sharks to photograph as they are able to rest immobile on the bottom for periods of time and with some patience you will be rewarded with some great shots! Glimpses of hammerheads can often be fleeting and by the time you realise what you're lucky enough to be seeing they are gone, every so often someone will get that elusive schooling hammerhead shot though!<br />
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<b><u>"Macro mania"</u></b><br />
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Most experienced photographers come seeking the smaller more cryptic inhabitants of the reefs around Mabul & Kapalai as well as the Tun Sakaran Marine Park. A patient search and the eagle eyes of one of dive guides will usually help to show up all kinds of reef dwellers such as nudibranchs, shrimps, crabs, pipefish, frogfish, stonefish and much much more. Slow moving marine life has a huge attraction for photographers, allowing for plenty of time to perfect that shot! The more photography a diver does, the more they find themselves getting into the smaller inhabitants of the reef, often to the extent that they will move 50m or less in one dive! Nudibranchs hold a special appeal due to the large number of different species, colours, patterns and their inability to go anywhere in a hurry! Divers will often find themselves staring at a frogfish, camera at the ready waiting for the elusive "frogfish yawning" shot!<br />
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<b><u>"After dark"</u></b><br />
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Once you feel as though you have mastered both wide angle & macro shots you may start to wonder what else there is and that is where a whole new world opens up - the night dive! Venture onto the reef after hours and you will find an array of critters waiting for their turn to be the star of your show as well as challenging you with new shooting conditions. Night dives are a great time for a slow paced dive, exploring the reef one circle of torchlight at a time producing as many if not more macro sightings than day dives! Parrotfish sleeping in bubbles in the reef, spanish dancers and all sorts of cuttlefish, squid, eels and seahorses make for fantastic subjects and will keep you occupied for hours (or until you get cold or low on air!!).<br />
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Whatever your level of experience and camera set-up, the Semporna region will have something for you to photograph - ask your guide for tips & tricks, chances are they're an avid photographer themselves!!<br />
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<br />Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-8984058769466910142017-07-21T17:07:00.000+08:002017-07-21T17:07:18.190+08:00Sipadan Barracuda Point - Why we love it!Barracuda Point is a world-famous dive site, and it's often top of the wish list for our divers when they make their trip to Sipadan… It's a favourite of our dive staff too - you'll be hard pushed to find a staff member who doesn't rate this amazing place in their top three, if not their number one!<br />
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Barracuda Point is in between Drop Off (Turtle Tomb) and Coral Garden, located close to the island. There is a sloping coral reef, which drops down into a channel, with another (smaller) reef rising and then sloping off again before that 600m drop. As the reef takes a sharp corner we get some super fun currents there… There is also a plateau at the end of the channel, which is often where our friends the barracuda can be seen.<br />
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We start the dive in the shallows with the jackfish (bigeye trevally) - there are some keyholes (crevices in the reef) where we can see schools of batfish or pickhandle barracudas, a wonderful greeting as you descend after your back roll off the boat! As we cruise in the shallows with the the enormous school of jackfish, very often bluefin trevally and GT's (giant trevally) are around too, looking for prey. We also keep an eye out for the bumphead parrotfish in the shallows – decreased visibility in the shallows is often an indicator that they are there, as they poop out sand – it can get quite murky!<br />
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Before we even drop to our max depth, or get to the barracuda tornado it's an awesome dive! We go over the wall and make our way down to our max depth, often passing some white tip reef sharks and huge grey reef sharks on the way. When descending - ALWAYS keep your eye on the blue – as the barracuda sometimes hang out there in a wall of fishy-ness, or sometimes cruise past like a high speed train (we call this getting "buzzed" by the barracuda!).<br />
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The wall itself is awesome - with crags and crevices (where we sometimes shelter from the currents to watch the sharks!), but don't forget to look beneath you as we often see turtles resting on the ledges of the wall if they're not swimming overhead. But we don’t stay there, we make our way round to the sloping coral reef on the corner – there’s a beautifully coloured school of red tooth trigger fish and longfin bannerfish mixed together. Watch out for big grey reefs, white tip reef sharks, the barracuda (again) – but also for dogtooth tuna zipping past hunting, or giant groupers hanging out. Watch out for behaviour too – if you see smaller fish schools zipping into the shelter of the reef – look and see what’s chasing and hunting them!<br />
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From the outside reef, we make our way back into the channel – sometimes there’s no current, and we get to explore this at our leisure. Spotted garden eels, great barracuda getting cleaned. White tip reef sharks hanging out under corals, or day octopus going about their business. We pass by Turtle Rock – a world-famous cleaning site for turtles (sometimes they fight over who gets cleaned next!) – making our way down the channel nice and easy. If there’s no current, the barracuda form the mesmerising world-famous tornado – almost hypnotic! There's an enormous boulder about halfway down the channel which can have some cool macro finds if you can tear your eyes away from the rest of the action.<br />
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But if the current is pumping you can cruise down the channel like Superman! Sometimes we wait it out and fin gently into the current here as the barracuda tornado becomes a wall – no less spectacular, a wall of barracuda as far as you can see! Sighting the tornado or wall of barracuda is top of every diver’s wish list – and the amazing spectacle is what gave this dive site its name.<br />
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After we've had enough of the barracuda (as if that is possible!) we can cruise down the channel making our way shallower (keeping an eye out for napolean wrasse) until it's time to make the safety stop… Sometimes the current stops abruptly at the end of the channel, throwing us back where we came from - but that just means you get to see it all over again! And sometimes we cruise on in to the next dive site, Coral Garden. But that's a story for another time…<br />
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Safety as always is Scuba Junkie's top priority - so regardless of your experience we'll give you a fantastic dive at Barracuda Point! We know the tides and the conditions really well, and all of our DM's have hundreds (if not thousands) of dives there. Hope to see you soon at Sipadan!!Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-49022503337754004042016-05-09T13:10:00.003+08:002016-05-09T13:10:56.234+08:00STRESS TEST<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">April 28</span><span class="s2"><sup>th</sup></span><span class="s1"> was D Day. Online dictionaries define D Day as “the day on which an important operation is to begin or a change to take effect.” D Day for the DMTs means the equipment exchange and stress test. It’s the last day of the course and a good way to end on a high note. I thoroughly enjoy it for many reasons, but mainly because (i) I am in charge and (ii) I am really good at giving orders…..</span></div>
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<span class="s1">After consulting the Instructor Manual for the rules and grading criteria for completing the equipment exchange, I gave the group a few minutes to powwow aka create an action plan (see the photo below). PADI lists the equipment exchange as:</span></div>
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<span class="s1">“In confined water, demonstrate the ability to effectively respond to an unusual circumstance underwater by exchanging all scuba equipment (except exposure suits and weights) with a buddy while sharing a single regulator second stage...”</span></div>
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<span class="s1">We even had paparazzi underwater. One of our guests volunteered to take photos of us throughout the morning. After a fun morning underwater, we took apart our equipment and rinsed the sand out of our hair, bodies, and kit.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">The snorkel test took place on the 30</span><span class="s2"><sup>th</sup></span><span class="s1"> where Scuba Junkie proudly welcomed 6 new divemasters to the professional world. Sadly, both Daniel and Peter left us the next day. The girls (Katrine, Moa, Sara, and Shantha) signed up for the 6 week Eco course. They are currently working on the finishing the Reef Check course, shadowing divemasters, and going on boats.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Pssst, whalesharks have been sighted recently! If you have any questions about our DMT program, please do not hesitate to contact us!</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Congratulations to Daniel, Moa, Shantha, Sara, Katrine, and Peter! We hope to see y’all underwater soon!</span></div>
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Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-65895216411806343752016-05-09T13:07:00.001+08:002016-05-22T12:25:22.890+08:00DMT CONDUCTED PROGRAMS<div class="p1">
Toward the end of the month, we focused on the DM conducted programs. These programs include:</div>
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<span class="s1"> *ReActivate, which is a program designed to refresh water skills and scuba knowledge when a person hasn’t dived in a while;</span></div>
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<span class="s1"> *DSD diving, which is a program designed for people who want to experience diving without completing the open water course;</span></div>
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<span class="s1"> *Discover Local Diving, which is a program designed to introduce people to a new diving area; </span></div>
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*Skin Diving/Snorkeling</div>
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<span class="s1">I divided the candidates into two groups of three again. While I was working with one group, the other group shadowed different instructors on a variety of scuba courses and divemasters leading fun dives. After five days, we switched.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">The first five days I had Daniel, Shantha, and Sara practicing their briefings and guiding. Below is a photo of the team taking a break on the jetty.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Here is a silly photo of Daniel, Sara, and Katrine practicing their buddy checks.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">The last five days of the course, I worked with Peter, Moa, and Katrine. Here’s a photo of them right before a debrief.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">It was great fun working with so many different personalities on the course. As with anything, each person has his or her own strengths and weaknesses. For instance, some people are stronger at briefings while others have stronger underwater skills. What made this month really special was how everybody helped each other out. It was awesome watching my scuba babies grow as divers!</span></div>
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Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-84108364452558035552016-05-09T12:56:00.001+08:002016-05-09T12:56:28.694+08:00MAPPING PROJECT<div class="p1">
After a week of paperwork and lectures and just being INSIDE the classroom, the divemaster candidates finally made it to the water to tackle the mapping project. The group split up into two teams of three people. They practiced skin diving techniques, measuring distances with fin kicks, navigating around Awas and the House Reef with a compass and using natural features, and learning how to plan and work together as a team. Take a look at the photos below. </div>
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<span class="s1">Daniel, Shantha, and Sara drew a map complete with very colorful pictures of each of the structures. Peter, Moa, and Katrine produced a PIRATE’s treasure map. Both groups displayed such creativity in their efforts. It’s been really amazing to see them grow as divers and as friends!</span></div>
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Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-19250508932669568672016-05-09T12:49:00.001+08:002016-05-09T12:49:42.504+08:00DMT BLOG<div class="p1">
It’s the time of the month. Without further ado, I would like to introduce the April divemaster candidates:</div>
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<span class="s2">KATRINE</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Hi, I am Katrine, a Belgian girl living in Malaysia, who loves diving! I love it so much that almost every “long time off”, I come to this amazing island to dive with Scuba Junkie. I can never get enough of it! The combination of always wanting to be under the surface and my curiosity to learn made doing my DMT the next logical step. I did all my other courses here at Scuba Junkie, so I signed up for the 6 week Eco DMT program.</span></div>
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<span class="s2">DANIEL</span></div>
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<span class="s1">My name is Daniel, and I am from Spain. As a child, I always loved snorkeling in the Mediterranean Sea. In 2011, while I was studying biology at university, I decided to go deeper by taking my OW [open water] course. Since then, I cannot stop diving, and I have fallen even more in love with the underwater world. Completing my DMT course while enjoying the beauty of the Coral Triangle’s biodiversity is a dream come true.</span></div>
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<span class="s2">MOA</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Becoming a divemaster has always been a dream of mine. When I came to Scuba Junkie six weeks ago, I realised that enrolling in the course was something I could actually do. So now I am back in Semporna and Mabul fulfilling my dream. I can’t wait until I am able to guide divers in this awesome underwater world.</span></div>
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<span class="s2">PETER</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Why do I want to be a divemaster? Why NOT?</span></div>
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<span class="s1">We’er only here once.<br />
Live what you love doing.<br />
Soak up the sun while it shines.<br />
Drink a beer while it’s cold.<br />
Escape the concrete greys.<br />
Walk amongst the tall greens.<br />
Swim in the deep blue.</span></div>
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<span class="s2">SHANTHA</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Although I was first certified as a scuba diver 20 years ago, I didn’t find many diving opportunities in Colorado, USA, where I grew up. When I quit my job as a surgical technician 2 years ago and began traveling the world, I realised that I had the chance to start diving again. I fell in love with diving all over again and have been diving and traveling ever since. I am hoping that I will be able to travel to many more countries as a divemaster, which will enable me to see even more of the world – both above and below the surface of the sea!</span></div>
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<span class="s2">SARA</span></div>
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<span class="s1">I am Sara, a Swede living in Melbourne, Australia. I have been fascinated by the underwater world for many years. More recently, I have started to enjoy capturing macro shots with my camera, so that I can show my non-diver friends how amazing this underwater world is! I am doing the DMT course because I want to learn more, challenge myself, and see if this industry could be for me. I miss my coffees, aerial yoga, and being able to make cakes whenever I want, but Mabul, diving, and the DMT course is making it all well worth it.</span></div>
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Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-27056780231450817852016-04-06T11:32:00.001+08:002016-04-06T11:32:35.682+08:00SHARK WEEK!!!It's that time again! We are in the middle of our Shark Week! A week dedicated to our beloved friends in the ocean. During this week we can highlight the dangers that face these graceful creatures, inform guests and the local community about sharks, and share what can be done to help them.<br />
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So far, along with Green Semporna we have worked with the local kids and the <span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;">Kolej Komuniti, teaching them about shark conservation and biology, and why they are so important to the ocean ecosystem. There have been Presentations given by our environmental officer Dave, and a few of Scuba Zoo photographers/videographers, Bertie and Jason. A fund raising Pub Quiz as well as multiple beach cleans. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;"><br /></span></span></span>Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-14855242788772394192016-04-02T16:53:00.000+08:002016-04-02T16:53:09.349+08:00DMT Update<div class="p1">
After 4 Weeks of Training in Theorie, In water Skills, Mapping, Deep Diving, Search and recovery, and lots of assisting in Courses from Discover Scuba Diving to Rescue Diver Course our latest 4 Dive Masters have finished the Course by way of the Snorkel Test and are now part of the Family here at Scuba Junkie and PADI Worldwide!</div>
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<span class="s1">Well done guys and Girl and all the best for your Future as PADI Dive masters!</span></div>
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Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-39328230617655463182016-03-12T13:35:00.004+08:002016-03-12T13:35:57.187+08:00The Month of March 2016 sees 4 New DMT Candidates from 3 Countries <div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><b>DMT UPDATE</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1">The Month of March 2016 sees 4 new DMT candidates from 3 Countries, Netherlands, Germany and Malaysia.</span></div>
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<span class="s2"><b>Uli</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1">I have done my Open Water Course with Scuba Junkie in 2011. After I did most of my Fun diving around Mabul and Kapali with Scuba Junkie. Since I am fascinated by the Underwater world, I made the decision to become a Diving Instructor, so I can show the beautiful world under the Surface to many more ppl! I hope to be able to change the behaviour of ppl so they take more care about our Oceans. To be a Diving Instructor is my biggest wish to give my Life another challenge and meaning. The Diving is still the most fascinating thing in my Life as I get to see something new every day!</span></div>
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<span class="s2"><b>Marcel</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1">Because of the programs I saw on TV of Jacques Cousteau I started diving in 1978 and from the start I loved it. Unfortunately I had to stop diving because I couldn’t afford to buy my own Equipment back then. Only 4 Years ago I had the chance to start over again with diving after we ended up in Koh Tao. From the first second in the Water the feeling was perfect and after that Holiday our way of Travelling changed as well. Since that day we only travel to dive!!! The diving went so well that we decided its time to deepen our knowledge. We did different specialties and became advanced Divers. During this 4 Years we’ve visited Scuba Junkie 3 times and last September we decided to do the DM Course because of the encouragement we got from other DM’s here and after a talk with Dave and Audrey we took a sabbatical from our work for 3.5 month to become DMT’s. After completing out DM course we will be better divers with a lot more knowledge about all the aspects of diving. Furthermore is being a DM a good back up if we might decide to leave Holland one day to start a new life and maybe become Instructors.</span></div>
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<span class="s2"><b>Marielle</b></span><span class="s1">,</span></div>
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<span class="s1">My love for diving started in April 2012. We used to travel around the world a lot, but I was always scared of what was in the water. But on one if our Trips to Burma I got really sick and we thought it would be better to go to Thailand where medical cure is way better. We decided to go to Koh Tao, so I could relax on the beach, maybe take a cooking course or just read a Book while Marcel could go diving. We ended up in a dive Resort and the fact that every time the Boats came back in, so many happy ppl got off, made me curious and that same evening I decided to sign up for the OWC. I had an amazing Instructor, who made me feel comfortable from the very first moment. And I knew after my first dive that I had discovered a completely new world, A new Love! I finished not only my OWC but my Advanced as in that same Week. Since then our travelling is all about diving and a whole new world is open for us again, full of secrets and beautiful creatures. Last Year we decided we wanted to do the DM Course, not only because it will make you a better diver, but also because it will broaden your view on diving and the aquatic world. I’m even thinking about a career change. Maybe after 25 Years in the Chemical Industry its time for something more adventurous and new. In the end , me getting sick made me so much stronger and completely changed my point of view, not only on my work but also on my life and future. Who would have thought that I, who was so scared of everything in the water, would do diving and 4 Years later be a certified Rescue Diver and on the way to become a DM ?! I had to think of that this past week… and it put a huge smile on my face!! ☺ </span></div>
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<span class="s2"><b>Faza</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1">I got my OW 6 Years ago and have loved it ever since. I’ve been travelling on and off for the past 3 Years and always making sure to include diving as part of my Trips. Last December I decided that I need a change and bought a Ticket out of Canada. After a couple of Month travelling, here I am in Borneo making diving and travelling as my Lifestyle. I’m so exited and looking forward for my Divemaster Course this month!!</span></div>
Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-39897503108961627862016-03-07T12:00:00.000+08:002016-03-07T12:00:11.303+08:00DMT's Week 4<span style="background-color: #fefefe; color: #373e4d; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.36px; white-space: pre-wrap;">I can’t believe the month is almost over. Time has flown by so quickly. This last week, the team has been busy practicing refreshers and fun dive briefings. Scuba Junkie offers refreshers to divers who have not been diving in a couple of months as way to increase confidence in their diving skills, like clearing a mask, and in their diving ability, like buoyancy control. A refresher involves several parts. First, the DMTs work on finessing their “equipment explanation”, which means being able to describe the function of each piece of scuba gear, and discussing how to set-up and break down the equipment. Second, they need to talk about the skills that will be practiced under water. Ideally, a thorough briefing involves confirming the underwater sign of the skill, a clear explanation of how to do the skill, and why we do the skill. Third, they will need to be comfortable demonstrating skills underwater, watching divers perform the skills, and correcting any mistakes.
By this point, the DMTs should feel comfortable navigating Awas and the House Reef. So for the fun dive practice, the team is learning how to analyze the conditions, such as current strength and tide levels, before going on a dive. Next, they practice delivering a thorough yet succinct dive brief, which should tell divers from start to finish of a dive what the dive will entail, our expectations of them as divers, and the cool marine life they might encounter. Lastly, we go for a DIVE and practice logbooks! The goal is for each DMT to successfully navigate around the dive site of his/her choosing.</span><br />
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On the 28th, we completed the equipment exchange, which is one of my favorite parts of the course. Here, the DMTs work in pairs to exchange their fins, mask, and BCDs with their buddy all while buddy breathing. Buddy breathing is where two people share one second stage regulator between themselves. Super challenging but extremely fun! In the evening, we had one last “skill” to complete - the snorkel test, which is basically a rite of passage for newly minted professional divers!
Below is a picture of our new divemasters (WOHOO!). I and the whole team at Scuba Junkie are so proud of all of their hard work! Welcome to the club! If you have any questions about making the transition to living the dream on an island and diving every day, please do not hesitate to contact us. We would love to see you here!</span><br />
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Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-37962508167352590162016-03-06T11:41:00.001+08:002016-03-06T13:42:20.266+08:00DMT'S Week 3<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">For Week 3, the DMTs were super busy ticking off the boxes re the Practical Application portion of the course. First, they completed the mapping project. The team spent two days working to create a map of Awas and House Reef. This entire month, the theme has been boys versus girls. So on the first day of mapping, the boys (Damien and Man) and the girls (Jan and Sanne) worked in separate teams using skin diving and various search patterns to orientate themselves. On the second day, they worked together as a four person team to combine their maps and to polish the details, such as compass heading, fin kicks, and depth readings. They did a superb job!</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Next up, we geared up for the final skill circuit, which involves demonstrating the twenty-four skills from the open water course. There is a big difference between being able to DO the skills and being able to DEMONSTRATE them. Part of the skill circuit involves learning how to explain the parts of the scuba gear and how to assembly and disassembly the kit. Here’s a picture of the girls practicing their spiel and preparing their equipment. And here’s a photo of the boys hanging out after the skill practice.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">At the end of the week, we completed the 40 meter dive. It was serious fun planning and preparing for the deep dive. My favorite part is seeing how “narc-ed” the DMTs are at 40 meters by playing various number games that involve hand-eye coordination. It’s always a good laugh to see how hard they are concentrating when counting using their hands. Check out the team after the dive!</span><br />
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<span class="s1">Next week is our final week together, which means the STRESS TEST and the always messy SNORKEL TEST. Stay tuned for more details!</span></div>
Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-14407906579072721082016-02-21T11:30:00.000+08:002016-02-21T11:30:17.792+08:00DMT's : Week Two!!<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">As I mentioned in the last blog post, the February DMTs have spent much of their first week completing administrative/non-water work details: (boring) paperwork, reading the DM Manual, and watching PADI videos, etc. Week 2 saw them back into the water. WOOHOO! They assisted different instructors with open water and advanced courses and shadowed divemasters leading </span>refreshers, snorkelers, and fun divers.</div>
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<span class="s1">Now, we are back in the classroom. While the classroom isn’t a bad place to be as it involves sitting in comfy chairs and couches upstairs in the bar with the sea breeze blowing through our hair, it isn’t exactly as exciting as being in the water and blowing bubbles. At the moment, we are focused on finishing the dreaded information laden Chapter 9 of the DM manual and participating in five lectures – physiology, physics, equipment, decompression theory, and environment. Each lecture summarises important information that is necessary to the diving industry and sport. Here’s a picture of the group (minus Man, who is in Semporna helping out in the equipment room today) during one of our lecture days. At the end of the week, the DMTs will be taking their second exam and should start their mapping project.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Work hard, play hard. That should be everybody’s life motto. During the day, I cram dive knowledge into their brains. In the evenings, people congregated upstairs chatting with each other about the day’s diving and just enjoying the beauty of Mabul. If you haven’t seen a sunset here, then you are missing out on LIFE. Absolutely stunning! It’s not a bad life – that’s for sure.</span></div>
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Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-70047072356728092162016-02-07T10:03:00.002+08:002016-02-07T10:03:59.104+08:00FEBRUARY BLOG<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Happy Leap Year! This month, we will have four new
divemaster trainees (DMTs). We are very
excited to introduce them to you:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">JAN:<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I am Jan from England and have taught English in various
locations around the world for the past 10 years. I decided I needed a change of career –
another one that would also give me the opportunity to travel the world. Having been passionate about the diving since
I got my OW [open water] in 2011, I decided to do my DMT. I hope to become an instructor in the future
to continue living the dream.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">SANNE:<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I come from a small island in Denmark and have always loved
the ocean as it brings peace to mind. I
just quit my job as a social worker to go traveling and am trying something
completely different. Ever since I got
my OW in 2009, I have wanted to challenge myself and do the divemaster
course. I enjoy the quietness of the
water, the sound of bubbles, and I also a sucker for turtles!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">DAMIEN:<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">From County Kildare in Ireland. Started diving (OW) in 2008, in Lanzarote in
the Canary Islands. I enjoy diving,
particularly the big stuff. Diving has
allowed me to meet a lot of strange and interesting people and visit many remotes
parts of the world. I am doing the DMT
course as a way of broadening my dive knowledge and to learn more about the
marine conservation work Scuba Junkie undertakes in Mabul and the surrounding
areas.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">MAN:<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Alright, my name is Man.
I am so lucky to have been born in Semporna. It’s such a lovely place with beautiful
islands. I have been working with Scuba
Junkie as a dive shop assistant for the past year. One day, I started to become interested in
diving. So, I talked to Ric [one of the
owners], and he said that he would be happy to give me the opportunity to be a
divemaster. The first breath underwater
is still fresh in my mind. Now, I
realize what my passion is! I love diving!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The first week of the course is all about orientation to
Scuba Junkie and our way of life, introductions to their diving history and
reasons for becoming a professional diver, and increasing their enthusiasm for
the underwater world by expanding their knowledge on dive theory and marine
life. We just finished the administrative
side of the course aka the paperwork, which is not the most glamorous side of
diving but necessary.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">We will be sure to keep y’all updated on their progress
throughout the month. If you have any
questions about our in-depth DMT program, please send us an email at </span><a href="mailto:info@scuba-junkie.com"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">info@scuba-junkie.com</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> or
check out our website at </span><a href="http://www.scuba-junkie.com/"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">www.scuba-junkie.com</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">.<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-22743004434046811642016-01-30T11:01:00.002+08:002016-01-30T11:01:47.481+08:00Congratulations to Dani, Sarah and Dolly! January DMTs<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Congratulations to our January DMTs, Sarah, Dolly, and Dani! They have successfully completed their dive master course with Scuba Junkie. We had an epic equipment exchange and stress test on the 28th! Throughout the month, these guys dealt with a lot of challenges, such as learning everything in a second language, improving their dive skills, and learning how to speak like a professional diver! We also shared many laughs along the way (well I did at least).</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> One of my favorite things is something that the December’s DMTs passed onto to the January DMTs. As we all know, the buddy check involves BWRAF. The December DMTs created a new and improved buddy check consisting of BWRAF – H. The H stands for HUG. After completing the buddy check, everybody gets into a circle, wraps their arms around each other, starts jumping, and yells, “DIVING, DIVING, DIVING!” It’s pretty epic. Their enthusiasm inspires me and hopefully everyone else to keep on diving.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Dolly has returned to Australia to continue his studies. We will miss him greatly! Dani and Sarah are staying for a two week internship, and we are happy to have them. If you see them around the dive shop, make sure to buy them a beer for all of their hard work!</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">If you have any questions about our DMT program, please let us know either on Facebook or through email at <a href="mailto:info@scuba-junkie.com"><span class="s2">info@scuba-junkie.com</span></a>. </span></span></div>
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Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-42314698473253947842016-01-30T10:58:00.001+08:002016-01-30T10:59:19.883+08:00Introducing our first DMTs of 2016!<div class="p1">
<span class="s1" style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Happy 2016! Scuba Junkie would like to introduce to you its new DMTs for the month of January.</span><br />
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<span class="s1" style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I have been an ocean baby my whole life, from being born in Hawaii to growing up on both coasts of the USA. I am a dancer, a climber, a mountain biker, and a traveler. And a diver, of course! I love being outside, trying new things and meeting new people. I got into diving as a reason to travel the world. I hope to one day become an instructor and work all over the globe, showing people how beautiful the world is just below surface.</span></div>
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<span class="s2" style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>SARAH:</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1" style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">So, a little about me. I am originally from London, U.K., and have been traveling and working as an English teacher for over a year. I have been interested in marine biology since I was a wee nipper, and I made a promise to myself when I left the UK that I would finally learn to dive. I got my Open Water certification last Christmas Eve, in 2015, in Bocas Del Toro, Panama. Since then, diving has become a huge part of my life, and I can’t imagine living far from the sea now. My daily commute to work is by boat. What’s not to love?</span></div>
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<span class="s1" style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">So why did I decided to do my DM? Well, everything about the lifestyle appeals to me. I feel part of a community of passionate and proactive nutters, who share my sense of adventure and curiosity about the ocean. I also love what the DMT course at Scuba Junkie has brought out in me and those around me: a focus on empowering one another, improving my diving skills, and my awareness of the environment and marine life, and generally taking pride in what I do. It is undeniably a full-on course, but it has felt great to be totally immersed in something so dynamic and new.</span></div>
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<span class="s1" style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">My experience at Scuba Junkie has been so positive; mainly because the staff here are so helpful and lovely, and they have gone out of their way to help me with any queries. Ultimately, every time I dive here, I learn something new. I find it so useful watching the variety of teaching styles of different instructors and dive masters, and I learn so much by observing and chatting to other divers who are visiting too.</span></div>
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<span class="s1" style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I am Dolly from China studying in Melbourne right now. Half a year ago, I got my AOW certification in Koh Tao, Thailand, and I was addicted in scuba diving after that. During this summer vacation, I found a really cool place to begin my DMT – Scuba Junkie. It helps every diver to realize his dream. For me, I just want to travel around the world and find part-time jobs in different places. The DMT program trains me to be a professional diver including offering practical skills as well as theoretical knowledge. I am meeting lots of friends here even though most of them cannot speak Chinese. Scuba diving is such a magical sport because it allows people from different languages and backgrounds to bond together. I am so happy that I am welcomed by everyone here. If you want to enjoy a lifestyle where every day is a holiday then come and join us.</span></div>
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<span class="s1" style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">We are already in Week 3 of the program. At the moment, the DMTs are currently finishing the second half of their exam. Earlier this week, they worked together to complete the mapping project. They focused on their strengths – navigating, fin kicking, and artistic ability – to create a map of the ever favorite dive site, Awas.</span></div>
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<span class="s1" style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Later this week, we plan to dive to 40 meters to meet the Deep Dive requirement. During this dive, we will check to see if the scuba babies are affected by nitrogen narcosis by playing a couple of hand eye coordination games while at 40 meters. At 30 meters, we will look at color differences, and at 15 meters, they will navigate a reciprocal heading – 20 fin kicks out and 20 fin kicks back. Moreover, we plan to finish up the Search and Recovery activity. During this practical application, the DMTs have to search for small and large objects and learn how to operate lift bags as well as learning how to tie three knots – bowline, two half hitches, and sheet bend. For the small objects, I throw several coins into the Scuba Junkie confined area of Awas. The DMTs then have 25 minutes to find as many coins as possible. For every coin that they do not find, they will have to give me one in return. I find this sufficient motivation for them to do well. Jason, another DMT instructor and Scuba Junkie legend, would always stand at the stairs and yell words of encouragement. He would literally yell, “Words of Encouragement.” Both methods work well :-)</span></div>
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<span class="s1" style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">If you have any questions about our DMT program, please feel free to email Scuba Junkie @ <a href="mailto:info@scuba-junkie.com"><span class="s3">info@scuba-junkie.com</span></a>. We would love to hear from you.</span></div>
Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-71762588300118774862016-01-28T11:11:00.002+08:002016-01-28T11:11:55.739+08:00Congratulations to our December DMTs!!<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><b><span style="font-size: large;">DECEMBER BLOG</span></b></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: large;">Last month in December, we had three amazing DMTs: Kai (in the blue t-shirt), Chris (on the left), and Cat (on the right).</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: large;">My name is Kai. I am a regular local guy from Borneo. I am the account clerk at Scuba Junkie. One day, I told Ash and Dave [Semporna managers] that I would like to do diving as my career. After talking with Ric [Scuba Junkie’s owner], Scuba Junkie offered to enroll me in the divemaster internship program, which allows me to take all the courses (open water, advanced, EFR, and rescue) up to the divemaster level. I am very happy diving and meeting people. I have learned a lot from the instructors here! Now, I realize that I need nitrogen to live ☺</span></span></div>
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<span class="s2"><b><span style="font-size: large;">CHRIS:</span></b></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: large;">Chris is one of the new DMTs at Scuba Junkie in December. He hails from Brisbane, Australia, and has been diving since he was first certified as an Open Water Diver in the Maldives in 2001. Chris is a career researcher, and is completing his DMT internship in order to have a more active and leading role in his university’s dive club. He came to Mabul to see peacock mantis shrimp and flamboyant cuttlefish – both of which he saw on his first day. Hobbies include talking, all the time and about anything at all, to anyone who will listen / is within earshot.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s2"><b><span style="font-size: large;">CAT:</span></b></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: large;">Catherine is the second recruit in Decembers DMT course, from Sydney, Australia. First certified in 1997, searching far and wide to do her DMT course and finally finding her ‘happy place’– Scuba Junkie Mabul. With a background in Sales & Marketing, she is looking to change the scenery from the usual office grind as well as to become a better diver. Travel, photography, diving and salsa dancing are just some of her interests – and looking for any opportunity in which to combine one or more of these interests is her passion in life.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: large;">Below is a picture of the December DMTs after completing their equipment exchange/stress test. Everybody succeeded with flying colors, and Scuba Junkie is happy to introduce them to the world as PROFESSIONAL DIVERS!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you're interested in taking the step into professional diving please send an email to info@scuba-junkie.com</span></div>
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Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-9927255877035906932015-12-13T11:22:00.000+08:002015-12-13T11:22:39.383+08:00Marine Week: The Grand Finale!! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The final day of Scuba Junkie Marine Week was a huge success. This has been one of our most productive awareness weeks yet, with a huge amount of community involvement it feels like things are starting to change. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Once again we had the Kommunity Kollege and Green Semporna involved in our days' activities. To celebrate we had an island wide clean up! The previous night many of the participants visited other dive centres and resorts on the island and encouraged everyone to take part. The two villages on the island were asked to participate, and told that if they cleaned the area around their house the rubbish would be removed. In addition to this, three main areas were targeted in the clean by staff and customers. It was inspiring to see everyone work hard together. The involvement from the local community is really what made the day a success. Many of the children who had joined us on the first day of the week, who were given presentations on environmental topics, were eager to take part - exactly the sort of attitude we love to see! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The afternoon was an emotional one, as it was time to say goodbye to our, fondly named, 'Myrtle' the turtle. The Sabah Wildlife Department - to whom we are incredible grateful for all their support - came to the island to assist in her release. Brought to us just over 102 days ago she had a intestinal infection that meant she was unable to dive down from the surface of the water. The infection had caused a build up of gas; had she been left she would almost certainly have starved to death. Fortunately she was brought to the Mabul Rehab Centre at Scuba Junkie. The Sabah Wildlife Department provided us with antibiotics and a treatment plan. They then trained our staff in implementing this plan, which consisted of feeding, weighing and administering the antibioitics.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">After a worrying few weeks during which Myrtle was not taking any food, she slowly began her road to recovery. It took time and considerable effort, but eventually she was able to dive beneath the surface once again. Whilst we kept her in the rehab centre for observation for just over a month, we are extremely fortunate that our first patient was a resounding success! Often turtles in this condition are sick because of a build up of consumed plastic - this is much harder to recover from. Although we do not wish sickness upon our reptilian friends, we are so happy that we are able to help and hope that the rehab centre continues to be a success. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioB1veeTArgqkmN1caft4Bw2KPh8W2-UR7ofo37S2DvB8vaOu3ROeknP2I0JYlQXsxBLouaxsdGIQpECWoRqD1roOMkgLId9x1RGYuCNtDRoAug8i483J8G1NeChZcxjkziccS864AOr6U/s1600/IMG_0295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioB1veeTArgqkmN1caft4Bw2KPh8W2-UR7ofo37S2DvB8vaOu3ROeknP2I0JYlQXsxBLouaxsdGIQpECWoRqD1roOMkgLId9x1RGYuCNtDRoAug8i483J8G1NeChZcxjkziccS864AOr6U/s400/IMG_0295.JPG" width="300" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Overall the week was great fun and, we think, a huge success. In conservation local community involvement and education is critical. If we don't take steps to inform children in the area of the threats their community faces and the consequences of sucking the resources dry then change will never truly happen. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Scuba Junkie would like to extend a big thank you to everyone who was involved in the week. Without the help of organisations such a Green Semporna and those at the Kommunity Kollege the week would not have created the impact that it did! We look forward to more community outreach programmes throughout 2016! </span><br />
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<br />Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-84417478618214746412015-12-12T17:15:00.000+08:002015-12-12T17:15:00.134+08:00Marine Week: Day 6<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwTh5iwlWdgIcC85V3btXpnSBe9AJTaqW9cGgvN4MvCs-onY-CVyPx-sCOMLDnKej-RI0DBDactaWif6Bo1P8iR7ud-n6ONLcIuE7EcRGXRAV4Y7nITwa9kO0zwq1bsqOY1T64Et3mr4zW/s1600/20151211_102804.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwTh5iwlWdgIcC85V3btXpnSBe9AJTaqW9cGgvN4MvCs-onY-CVyPx-sCOMLDnKej-RI0DBDactaWif6Bo1P8iR7ud-n6ONLcIuE7EcRGXRAV4Y7nITwa9kO0zwq1bsqOY1T64Et3mr4zW/s400/20151211_102804.jpg" width="400" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The penultimate day of Marine Week was action packed. The Kommunity College from Semporna visited Mabul and we also had Green Semporna over for the day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The day was an educational one for our visitors. Part of the group started with an 'Snorkel Against 'Debris'. They collected rubbish that was found on the reefs and floating along the surface of the water. It was incredible to see the effort that was put in by all that took part. The rest of the group began the day with some basic swimming lessons, it was amazing to see the enthusiasm they showed. Our environmental officer Cat was their teacher and her encouragement and support meant they all felt comfortable in no time!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">After they are dried off it was time for the fish identification work shop. Dave started with a presentation outlining various fish species. When it comes to identifying fish it would be nearly impossible to learn each individual one. What is key is to learn what differentiates different fish families, then go from there. Other information included was the behaviours of different fish species, not only can this help ID them, but it also can create interest. From butterfly fish and angel fish, to octopus and anemone fish they can all exhibit fascinating behaviours. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">For example, octopus are far more intelligent than many would give them credit for. One octopus that was being kept in a lab manage to sneak out of its tank and eat to eat the fish in other tanks! Staff of the lab were baffled about what was happening to their fish. It wasn't until a camera was left filming that they found the culprit! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Once you've learned to ID different fish species what's the best thing to do? Why, go for a snorkel and put your new skills to the test of course! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">In the evening we had a presentation from our good friends at Green Semporna. Rina and Adzmin talked about who they are, what they do and why it needs to be done. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Green Semporna are a group of Malaysian volunteers who share a passion for change. They were inspired by the beauty of the marine environment. Some have previous experience from working with WWF, others come from different backgrounds. They all share one goal - to create a positive change in Semporna through community involvement and education. The aim to encourage a green lifestyle in the community. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5MCjay-4py0rbu8jpTC0f33Fb324r6SM5ABL9ryvFQhuMp4qvoDCegl3fA17eBozhX6vjN5ClT7sr2Uq4FExltLTBfoADCmVK8qrhPaTzP3LITWK9IIzOd2LwsQnAqDKsnzh1CaVcStK-/s1600/20151211_200855.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5MCjay-4py0rbu8jpTC0f33Fb324r6SM5ABL9ryvFQhuMp4qvoDCegl3fA17eBozhX6vjN5ClT7sr2Uq4FExltLTBfoADCmVK8qrhPaTzP3LITWK9IIzOd2LwsQnAqDKsnzh1CaVcStK-/s320/20151211_200855.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Rina explained to us the need for such an organisation. They hope to raise awareness about fish bombing in the area. Many are not educated in the detrimental effect that fish bombing can have. Even those who are felt that there are not many other options left. They also have concerns about the flagships species that require protection. The problem in Semporna is that many of the locals have no idea of the problems that the underwater world is facing. For this reason, and many others, Green Semporna have education of locals at the centre of their ethos. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Green Semporna believe that the involvement of locals has a bigger impact. They have an understanding of what the local community are capable of and they show them they ways in which they can help. This year they have even created and illustrated their own book to give to primary schools to promote conservation. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Green Semporna started in 2012 and have ben growing momentum ever since. However, it is 2015 that they see as their year of luck! In the past 12 months they have garnered more support from local leaders, developed their own successful projects, generated support from the local schools. Sadly they do face challenges - finance for programmes such as this are always an issue. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">With their growing support they hope to clean up Semporna and giving the next generation a chance to help. The work they have done and aim to do is inspiring. Tomorrow we will update you on the last day of Scuba Junkie's inaugural Marine Week. So stay posted, because there is a lot to tell you about!! </span><br />
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<br />Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-40522921829053446272015-12-11T11:58:00.000+08:002015-12-11T12:02:34.026+08:00Marine Week: Day 4 & 5<br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">We are now half way through our Scuba Junkie Marine Week! It has been an amazing success thus far, and we would like to extend our gratitude to all of the customers who have joined us in celebrating this amazing event.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">On day 4 one of our environmental officers David McCaan joined Steven Moore and Samantha Sherman from the Global Fin Print. </span><br />
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<u><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Who Are Global Fin Print?</span></u><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaHY-NQYJ9WdiBnYFPCXcIm3xREDdOiznKBPvHxbWdz6TWvSmpQ6hk-h6Pu5dV4UBlz_1w0_aTxCOnl49LxWjX1A_-NR1tfTr0b77PqSEo8nGR_WPIUaac7U_TIvDF0kgfUmJQpYbCuS-J/s1600/11541912_576653062473990_7322681581611047892_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaHY-NQYJ9WdiBnYFPCXcIm3xREDdOiznKBPvHxbWdz6TWvSmpQ6hk-h6Pu5dV4UBlz_1w0_aTxCOnl49LxWjX1A_-NR1tfTr0b77PqSEo8nGR_WPIUaac7U_TIvDF0kgfUmJQpYbCuS-J/s400/11541912_576653062473990_7322681581611047892_n.png" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">This initiative was established in order to garner more information about diminishing numbers of sharks and rays worldwide..Over the next three years they plan to collect data on sharks and rays across the globe. Their aim is to produce the 'first globally standard survey of shark and ray diversity and abundance with key focus on coral reef ecosystems'. They will use this data to predict what is effecting the diversity of the elasmobranch population. Over a quarter of sharks and rays are facing extinction and this will be the first baseline data for us to see the trend of their decline. The information they collect will be open to all scientists, managers and the general public which maximises its educational reach. It is a huge task that they are undertaking, but the information gathered will be hugely important. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCHi56A9WFc-xW6Gs50CJI96V7K1kDDnC_WjEBqDFhkeu7OQQPCDbZ2BNXuJMxJIylLo9g1yJaRHUreXIc6Bjv6Io9G-AjRCXb7Bl2T01l5XiKmVGzHSpQVTYC1_4Pj32KhtmQ7eXMrvNE/s1600/IMG_0234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCHi56A9WFc-xW6Gs50CJI96V7K1kDDnC_WjEBqDFhkeu7OQQPCDbZ2BNXuJMxJIylLo9g1yJaRHUreXIc6Bjv6Io9G-AjRCXb7Bl2T01l5XiKmVGzHSpQVTYC1_4Pj32KhtmQ7eXMrvNE/s400/IMG_0234.JPG" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">To get this information they have been using baited remote underwater video (BRUV). These cameras are deployed in specific areas and have collected some interesting footage. These videos allow the team to analyse the shark and ray population and identify affecting factors - such as coral coverage, fish population, fishing pressures and and water temperature. Once this information is brought together and condensed it will be possible to see where the focus needs to be in creating protected areas, and which species to be focused on.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Steve and Sam joined Scuba Junkie in KK, Semporna and Mabul to gather their research. They have been great fun to have around. They gave an excellent presentation on the fifth day of Marine Week, informing people on who they are and what they have been doing. We hope that they collected the information that they need and we hope to work more with them in the future. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzAZXTOvjixAs2NavHEP6QPMPNgsRHEvz_fDeAnyT91NMhKQU3wzns1AtROBYFARlht9L-UkgGz3mKSmUg1dK106ktAinZdKNNyM802r0BSRToHt2j9sRtRjxaipWvd8LJfWQ1gUSEwCcX/s1600/IMG_0219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzAZXTOvjixAs2NavHEP6QPMPNgsRHEvz_fDeAnyT91NMhKQU3wzns1AtROBYFARlht9L-UkgGz3mKSmUg1dK106ktAinZdKNNyM802r0BSRToHt2j9sRtRjxaipWvd8LJfWQ1gUSEwCcX/s400/IMG_0219.JPG" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Two night ago we had a Pub Quiz! Dave was our quiz master for the evening and entertained with 5 rounds of questions. We had a great turn our and raised over 200RM for Green Semporna. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">During the day our trained staff took part in our coral transplant programme. The coral transplant programme involves taking fragments of live coral and bringing them to our coral nursery. We hope to create an area where the coral can regrow and flourish. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Just two days left of what has, so far, been a hugely successful week. Stay posted for more information on corals and the activities we have been getting everyone involved in! </span><br />
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<br />Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-32248890225456697152015-12-09T15:24:00.000+08:002015-12-11T11:25:54.343+08:00Marine Week: Day 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">On our third day of Scuba Junkie Marine Week we continued our efforts on our reef check surveys. In the evening Julian, of Reef Check Malaysia, gave a presentation on who Reef Check Malaysia are, what it is they do and the changes that need to be made in this area. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Sadly we are facing our third world wide coral bleaching event. Coral bleaching and disease are caused by climate change. Corals can only survive in water temperatures of 18-29 degrees celsius. Anything outside of this and the coral cannot survive.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><u><b>What is coral?</b></u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">All this talk about coral and the threats it face, it's time to talk about what coral is. Dave and Cat our environmental officers at Scuba Junkie, have produced a collection of incredibly informative posters that are easy to understand. All the information provided here was taken from their posters.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxjHdiTYWxl4-7gNtnIqKrbfDymAAMT0Z2OvOllh08eO-s9E_Bi98fegdxPdv809A9V6ylBv19KPgdRDTod41Er8TNVrmuWCyNz3MeBOzV8QZ1y2xw2N9fIogNH16GHwri7I-3XHgNUDL/s1600/Anatomy+of+a+coral+polyp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxjHdiTYWxl4-7gNtnIqKrbfDymAAMT0Z2OvOllh08eO-s9E_Bi98fegdxPdv809A9V6ylBv19KPgdRDTod41Er8TNVrmuWCyNz3MeBOzV8QZ1y2xw2N9fIogNH16GHwri7I-3XHgNUDL/s400/Anatomy+of+a+coral+polyp.jpg" width="400" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It is a common misconception that corals are plants - given their often bush like appearance. However, they are actually animals! They are tiny little invertebrates called 'polyps'. These polyps cannot survive on their own so they have a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae. Zooxanthellae is actually a photosynthetic algae: the mutualistic relationship it has developed with the corals means that they both can thrive. This tiny algae lives inside the coral tissue and provides it with energy through photosynthesis. Whilst living inside the coral the zooxanthellae is provided with shelter - the perfect symbiotic relationship! The zooxanthellae also gives corals their stunning colours, as the body of the polyps is actually clear.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Coral bleaching affects corals because it destroys the relationship between the polyps and the zooxanthellae. When temperatures rise the zooxanthellae abandon the polyps. As mentioned it is the algae that gives the corals their stunning colour - thus without it the corals appear 'bleached'. Without the energy from the photosynthesis the polyp struggles to survive. If temperature returns to normal within a short period of time than the coral can recover as the zooxanthellae will return. If not, the corals die.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Thousands upon thousands of polyps comes together to form the stunning coral structures you see in the water. These are known as 'colonies'. There are two types of coral colonies - hard and soft. We'll be providing you with more information on this as the week goes on!</span><br />
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<u><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Who are Reef Check Malaysia?</span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Whilst Reef Check was originally set up in America in 1996, it is now in 82 countries! It was set up to raise awareness of the importance of and the threats that face coral reefs. The aim of Reef Check Malaysia is focused on managing reefs sustainably. Through education and raising awareness they hope to stimulate local action to aid the rehabilitation and protection of coral reefs.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">After undertaking a reef check survey around Mabul, Julian felt there was much that needed to be explained. Sadly whilst doing the survey the team witnessed purse sein fishing close to Pulau Mabul What Julian highlighted was that though we may personally disagree with these practises, there are people who are just trying to survive. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 34.79999923706055px;">At the end of the day we may wish for fishing to decrease, but people need to feed their families. Furthermore Julian noted that some laws may seem unclear, whether or not they could fish so close to Pulau Mabul was actually not known by many involved in the reef check survey. The information he provided and the passion with which he spoke about the situation was a real eye opener. Many have idealistic opinions on change, whereas Julian was realistic in his talk. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 34.79999923706055px;">We'll be keeping you posted on all our activities and providing you with more information on corals as the week goes on. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Facts about Mushroom Coral (Fungia Seychellensis):</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Generally a solitary species, they grow to about 30cm </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Juveniles attach to a rock, but older ones are free living </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The discs are round or oval and have a central mouth</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">They are listed as 'vulnerable' on the IUCN Red List </span></li>
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Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-18069779113483614382015-12-08T18:11:00.000+08:002015-12-08T18:11:19.603+08:00Marine Week: Day 2<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuwt65QpRsVify65gxtfLBDqFNUwxTfB76F7r-S9af8u2_ccHjhBPr8vtgLxuHC8WcG76q6fUistFjClKJbpHz-c4a3Jeav6M_djUszDe2UvXd0GeRShyk85SZZnOzlRNycaVegPX0UUY5/s1600/JASE+%2526+DAVE+CUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuwt65QpRsVify65gxtfLBDqFNUwxTfB76F7r-S9af8u2_ccHjhBPr8vtgLxuHC8WcG76q6fUistFjClKJbpHz-c4a3Jeav6M_djUszDe2UvXd0GeRShyk85SZZnOzlRNycaVegPX0UUY5/s320/JASE+%2526+DAVE+CUT.jpg" width="298" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The second day of this years Marine Week had us analysing the health of the reefs in the area.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Many of our staff are Reef Check certified and so were able to conduct the surveys around Pulau Mabul. A reef check survey uses indicator species and analysis of substrates to determine the health of the reef. By periodically undertaking these surveys we are able to determine whether the coral reefs are declining or improving.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Sadly coral reefs are declining across the globe, with increasing numbers of coral being added to the IUCN red list. This comprehensive list ranks whether a species is facing extinction, whether it is vulnerable or even if we don't have enough data to specify what their population numbers are. Many species of coral are listed as 'vulnerable' - meaning that they are vulnerable to extinction and something needs to be done.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCg4_8RTbPfiHa8u5l9Lf4IlSrEumcP7P9dmqQLyjnCe3-fjcD9q326O41uD-DQ_kwN3zmoRWJ7gFXTKs4mWHk7T4WpCHI4c9XKry8-DHZQQbuVLDBrN0AYEfgKO-Me-yo-zoZM4hwthJ1/s1600/IMG_0077.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCg4_8RTbPfiHa8u5l9Lf4IlSrEumcP7P9dmqQLyjnCe3-fjcD9q326O41uD-DQ_kwN3zmoRWJ7gFXTKs4mWHk7T4WpCHI4c9XKry8-DHZQQbuVLDBrN0AYEfgKO-Me-yo-zoZM4hwthJ1/s400/IMG_0077.CR2" width="400" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">We heard more about this in a presentation from Dave, one of our onsite Environmental Officers. His extremely informative presentation outlines the threats that face our corals both globally and locally. He is explained that there are natural threats and those that we have created. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Natural threats include storm damage, exposure from changing tides, predators, coral disease and coral warfare. Natural threats have always existed, however, as Dave explained last night their impacts our worsening. With increasing climate change there are more storms that are far more aggressive causing greater damage than before. Furthermore, the natural predators of those that feed on the reef are being taken out of the ocean. Take, for example, the crown of thorns sea star. This sea star exists naturally in the underwater world and feeds on corals - all part of a healthy eco system. Unfortunately, one of their natural predators facing threats. The Titan Snail has a stunning shell that is in high demand. As more of these are pulled out of the water, the crown of thorns population is not controlled. This can in turn lead to hugely negative effect on the health of the coral reef. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Human threats are ever increasing and include: pollution, destructive fishing methods, o-zone layer damage, coastal development and irresponsible tourism. These effect the corals globally, but there are actions we can take locally to try and manage these problems. Irresponsible tourism is something that Scuba Junkie takes very seriously. We have a code of conduct for interacting with marine life - a strict no touching policy. We encourage and teach good buoyancy skills to all divers to ensure that they do not harm the coral reefs whilst diving and reinforce the phrase 'take only photos and leave nothing but bubbles'. Shells may make an nice souvenir or ornament to decorate a room but taking these has a detrimental effect on the marine eco system. Although we support the local community, we do ask guests to think twice before purchasing anything that has been taking from the ocean - for shells and shark teeth to be sold in a shop a marine animal has died. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">To conclude the presentation Dave gave information on what it is you guys can do to help:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Follow responsible dive and snorkel practices - don't touch anything in the water and don't walk on corals. Remember - 'Take only photos, leave only bubbles'</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Get involved in reef and beach clean ups - you don't need someone to organise a beach clean for you! Head to your local beach with some rubbish bags and some friends and you can make a difference! </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Choose sustainably caught seafood - overfishing effects corals as well as fish species. WWF provide great information on what seafood you should avoid and what is ok to eat. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Avoid marine souvenirs</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Support environmentally friendly responsible tourism operators - check out the Green Fins website for a list of dive and snorkel operators that have been assessed on their impact on the environment</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Support and encourage more Marine Protected Areas</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Support marine conservation NGOs. </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Facts about Staghorn Coral (Acropora formosa): </span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Staghorn corals are amongst one of the fastest growing corals - they can grow 20cm in one year </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Despite this they are listed as 'Near threatened' on the IUCN Red List. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">They can resemble antlers and grow up to 2m tall</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Although they out-compete other corals on the reef, they are one of the more delicate species. </span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGebcvf5kXgXLnc-nk-UQ_GplPHMDA8es9MQHhpH6XXfpo2Ong0FMwQd-aRvXulCnJLxOTHX9V3cqyR6R6pTErkz4mZyCt9uIde7J7mTmKUzXcxiqhRwh4qyNIIRZSHiwyFemiqweo1oC2/s1600/NEW+LOGO.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGebcvf5kXgXLnc-nk-UQ_GplPHMDA8es9MQHhpH6XXfpo2Ong0FMwQd-aRvXulCnJLxOTHX9V3cqyR6R6pTErkz4mZyCt9uIde7J7mTmKUzXcxiqhRwh4qyNIIRZSHiwyFemiqweo1oC2/s400/NEW+LOGO.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079935726560985270.post-23009621671551284742015-12-07T17:30:00.000+08:002015-12-07T17:30:26.944+08:00Marine Week: Day 1<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">With Shark Week and Turtle Week proving to be such a huge success, this year we decided to hold our inaugural Scuba Junkie Marine Week! The focus will be 'Corals in Crisis' and we shall be hosting our usual plethora of activities focusing on beach and reef cleans, presentations, community engagement and pub quizzes!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The coral reef is important for many reasons and it's crucial that we start to change our habits and start to protect what is at the core of one of the most important ecosystems in the world.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBj8wX4hEoeprRw-SsiQx_v0A_wRQFoqtW6D8pVzD-d3aEb4qQaCqdt9gIK5NO82o6_GxS9_OZk57Czq3q56T8LmMlqQ3fI6OyrVesCndNxJWU1RUVZxNu8ZjKVqNFCfba0LOvPHJdmgLx/s1600/kids+painting+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBj8wX4hEoeprRw-SsiQx_v0A_wRQFoqtW6D8pVzD-d3aEb4qQaCqdt9gIK5NO82o6_GxS9_OZk57Czq3q56T8LmMlqQ3fI6OyrVesCndNxJWU1RUVZxNu8ZjKVqNFCfba0LOvPHJdmgLx/s640/kids+painting+.jpg" width="480" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl0THfX11Q25S4zkrMcISrt1aF2qxWxjPVxy9YTs5UTNkrGYXXaIOiG5vwMcx48gwz2m_uJtel7nOL71nKr8hOqX2God1E-_rf2nrYOOua993E0MboAI3jU9tSLKZzZt3NljOMshQ-TGXk/s1600/kids+beach+clean+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"></span></a><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Our great friends over at Green Semporna have once again given an inspirational amount of commitment and involvement. They visited the resort and helped us in gathering the kids of the local community to involve them and educate them. Activities ran through out the day and they included educational presentations, as well as fun and games aimed at inspiring kids to want to help. The atmosphere at the resort was electric as the kids took over, throwing themselves into the activities. They got stuck into a beach clean in the morning and collected over 50 bags of rubbish from our beaches and the local village! As we all know, plastics and other detritus entering our waters can be hugely detrimental to our marine creatures and reef system, and beach cleans are a quick and easy way of negating some of the damage done. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The kids painted a beautiful mural depicting the underwater world, which is currently on display at the resort. If more of our future generation learn about the underwater environment then we can potentially inspire them to want to take an active part in protecting it, opening up the possibilities of potential employment for these children in the tourism industry.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBj8wX4hEoeprRw-SsiQx_v0A_wRQFoqtW6D8pVzD-d3aEb4qQaCqdt9gIK5NO82o6_GxS9_OZk57Czq3q56T8LmMlqQ3fI6OyrVesCndNxJWU1RUVZxNu8ZjKVqNFCfba0LOvPHJdmgLx/s1600/kids+painting+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"></span></a><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Educating the up and coming generation is key to creating change. If we can inspire just one child to want to protect to coral reefs then we consider the day to be a success (but hopefully it will be more than just one!!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Green Semporna are a non-profit organisation that aim to create and expand community involvement in protecting the environment. We have been working closely with them over the past few years, and they show a real commitment to wanting to create change. The success of our turtle and shark weeks has certainly been, in part, due to their involvement.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjni7E2xJs9w4khJB490e4_9KzthG5zVQE1SvJYOsj0gn1PkmV8SttSAeq1hi30E0tnlBePF3giCSUzCSsCDd3Tmb_18C7WC8gQTVJjbVoG0O5T1_Kq35_oT8sWF01D0kjInC0X4oCFKRfM/s1600/turtle+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjni7E2xJs9w4khJB490e4_9KzthG5zVQE1SvJYOsj0gn1PkmV8SttSAeq1hi30E0tnlBePF3giCSUzCSsCDd3Tmb_18C7WC8gQTVJjbVoG0O5T1_Kq35_oT8sWF01D0kjInC0X4oCFKRfM/s400/turtle+.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It seems that the animal world could not wait to celebrate with us! We had one of our last turtle nests, of what has been the most successful nesting year, hatch. Guests joined us as we released 80 hatchlings into the ocean. The stunning evening sky acted as a great back drop to, what is always, a incredible event.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">In the evening one of the managers of the Mabul Beach Resort Steve, along with </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">one of our on-site Environmental Officers</span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> Dave gave the opening ceremony. This highlighted Scuba Junkies continued involved in conservation and how it has been at the heart of the Scuba Junkie ethos since its opening over 10 years ago. This was followed by two extremely informative presentations from Poh Leem and Hui Ling from WWF Malaysia. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Poh Leem gave a presentation on Marine Spatial Planning (MPS). MPS is a programme where the resources of the ocean are organised and spread out. It allows the public to have an input in the sustainable future of the ocean. Currently, there is no planning or allocation of our ocean resources and there are huge conflicts over them. Consequently they are being sucked dry. We are pushing the boundaries and if we do not begin to organise them, we will be left with nothing. Pollution, habitat destruction and unsustainable fishing practices are all reasons why we need to start implementing MPS across the globe. There are huge benefits to this programme, not just ecologically, but also economically and socially. If we protect our oceans now they will be able to sustain for generations to come. If we continue to destroy them they way we currently are, sadly they will not.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Our second presentation of the evening provided information on Hard Coral Mapping. There are many corals that are currently listed as 'vulnerable' or 'near threatened' on the IUCN Red List. WWF have chosen species of Mushroom Coral to collect data on and gain better understanding of its population. They ask that those diving in the Semporna provide them with information on mushroom corals. Part of the mapping project also involved community involvement and workshops that highlight the importance of coral reefs. They plan to share this information with local authorities and the Town Planning Department. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">We are hugely grateful to Green Semporna and WWF Malaysia for their involvement and contribution to one of our most successful opening days to date! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Stay posted for more updates! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Facts about Whip Coral:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTpBxRlL2cDI_CtlcDSnoZba4QCpU6HiWRUnNThDq2-ZrYsjaiWXKgKWAkzAifK-ZXPQDsJp5IS_C6l43CMdo825xF7pW1VMhxS9RSX82gDZkqXht_UYWVZACn_6aZ3jYWVmKjUF7-b-LR/s1600/whip+coral+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTpBxRlL2cDI_CtlcDSnoZba4QCpU6HiWRUnNThDq2-ZrYsjaiWXKgKWAkzAifK-ZXPQDsJp5IS_C6l43CMdo825xF7pW1VMhxS9RSX82gDZkqXht_UYWVZACn_6aZ3jYWVmKjUF7-b-LR/s320/whip+coral+.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">This is a long unbranched coral that can extend to over 3 m</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The colour can vary from light green, yellow, brown to grey.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The skeleton of the coral is black, it is the soft bodied polyps of the coral that give it its colour</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Many corals can retract their polyps, this coral can only partially retract - this gives it a barbed appearance </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">If you look closely, sometime you can see tiny whip coral partner shrimp living on it! </span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGebcvf5kXgXLnc-nk-UQ_GplPHMDA8es9MQHhpH6XXfpo2Ong0FMwQd-aRvXulCnJLxOTHX9V3cqyR6R6pTErkz4mZyCt9uIde7J7mTmKUzXcxiqhRwh4qyNIIRZSHiwyFemiqweo1oC2/s1600/NEW+LOGO.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGebcvf5kXgXLnc-nk-UQ_GplPHMDA8es9MQHhpH6XXfpo2Ong0FMwQd-aRvXulCnJLxOTHX9V3cqyR6R6pTErkz4mZyCt9uIde7J7mTmKUzXcxiqhRwh4qyNIIRZSHiwyFemiqweo1oC2/s320/NEW+LOGO.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Scuba Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01745554117290527581noreply@blogger.com0