Shark Week: Day 5

We are sadly approaching the last few days of our second annual Shark Week. But never fear we still have loads of activities planned. 

We had an amazing turn out for this years FINathon. Staff and customers took on the challenge of swimming around Pulau Mabul. It took them just 3 hours. Some swam the whole way, whilst others took part as a relay. But all came back excited to have been a part of the event although they were all a little sunburnt! All money that was raised during the FINathon goes towards Project Aware. Project Aware focus on two major issues that threaten our oceans: Sharks in Peril and Marine Debris. Of course there are many problems our oceans are facing but these are the two that they have chosen to focus on. Over the years we have developed a close working relationship with Project Aware. Like us, Project Aware believe that the image portrayed of sharks are man eating machines needs to change. It's not too late to sponsor the event http://finathon.org/scuba-junkie. Every little helps!

We are hugely grateful to the guests who chose to give up a days diving to be part of and support this event. 

In the evening, whilst many people tended to their burnt calves, we were given a presentation by Aaron 'Bertie' Gekoski. Bertie is currently working to Scubazoo - an extremely talented production company based in Sabah. His project is 'Borneo from Below' - an online mini series looks at the wonders of diving in Sabah, but also touches upon the problems that the area faces. Having penned the term 'funservation' they aim to raise awareness of conservation issues in a more light hearted manner. For many of the episodes Bertie and his colleague Will have worked closely with Scuba Junkie. 

There were many subjects that Bertie touched upon. As an photographer he discussed the role that media plays in conservation. A powerful image can generate a lot of publicity, which then allows the photographer to promote the need for conservation. An experience that Bertie himself had been through when his own 'shark selfie' went viral. There is no doubt that there are many ways to approach the often delicate issues in conservation. Social media is constantly growing and the power of its voice increasing. Through their mini-series on Youtube they hope to spread the word of many issues through out Borneo. Check out their episodes on: www.facebook.com/BorneoFromBelow 

Facts about Leopard Sharks

• One of the most easily recognisable sharks 
• It can been seen resting on coral or if you are lucky you can see it swim gracefully through the water
• It's tail is nearly the same length as it body
• They are often called 'Zebra Sharks' as they have a striped pattern as juveniles 
• They are very docile and will allow divers to get very close 
• They are listed as 'Vulnerable' on the IUCN Red List