420 Dive Log Australasia OCTOBER 2026

Great Barrier Reef on the October

PHOTOS FROM JULY/AUGUST

Protecting a UNESCO World Heritage Icon

For more than 50 years, Mike Ball Dive Expeditions has introduced divers to the very best of the Great Barrier Reef. Every expedition reminds us that we are privileged to operate within one of the world’s most extraordinary natural environments—a place recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site of Outstand ing Universal Value since 1981. Stretching more than 2,300 kilometres, the Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef ecosystem on Earth. UNESCO recognises it for its exceptional natural beauty, remarkable biodiversity and globally significant marine habitats. Among its thousands of reefs and dive sites, Cod Hole is one of the very few locations specifically named in UNESCO’s official Statement of Outstanding Universal Value . Described as “the internationally renowned Cod Hole near Lizard Island,” it is recognised as one of the Great Barrier Reef’s significant visitor attractions. For generations of divers, Cod Hole has been one of Australia’s most iconic underwater experiences—famous for its diver-sized Potato Cod, spectacular coral formations and unforgettable marine encounters. From the beginning, Mike Ball believed the privilege of exploring the Great Barrier Reef came with a responsibility to protect it. That philosophy continues to guide our expeditions today. Our crew contributes to Eye on the Reef , the Tourism Reef Protection Initiative , scientific research and citizen-science projects. Observations collected during our expeditions help researchers and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority monitor reef health, marine life and changing environmental conditions. Our long-standing Peace on the Reef initiative also encourages every diver to minimise their impact underwater. Every guest becomes part of this story by supporting responsible reef tourism and the ongoing protection of one of the world’s greatest natural treasures. Dive the internationally renowned Cod Hole Experience Cod Hole, the spectacular Ribbon Reefs and some of the Great Barrier Reef’s finest diving aboard SpoilSport on our 5-night GBR & Ribbon Reefs Expedition .

1st. TJ Cottam

3rd. Mac Garrabrants

2nd. Alex Wright

Created by Mike Ball in 1994, Peace on the Reef encourages divers to be mindful of their impact. Its simple hand signal reminds fellow divers to keep wayward fins, hands and equipment away from the reef.

Check out availability of Expeditions on Spoilsport. www.mikeball.com/availability

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DIVE LOG Australasia #420 Oct ‘26

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