DIVE LOG AUSTRALASIA FEB 2025 ISSUE 410

Similarly, the Great Barrier Reef will be protected when it has a clearly identified dollar value. Endless exploitation disrespects this principle and impoverishes the value of the reef and destroys the ecosystem. I know people have tried to implement more marine sanctuaries here in OZ. Usually, passionate fishers strongly oppose any loss of freedom and do not want to give up their ‘right’ to catch the last few ‘fishies.’ Lorenz has successfully overcome this massive hurdle and managed to have the fishers’ total support. How he did that, I do not know but it is a most significant achievement. Fishers now are much better off. As a result, Wakatobi hopes to become a beacon for resorts across the globe. This is the way of the future for tourism to save the oceans, build excellent international relations, support local communities financially and make a successful business. As a result, diving around Wakatobi is excellent. The variety of coral reefs is amazing. There are dive sites such as ‘Magnifica’, Pinki’s Wall and Fan Garden. One of the favorites is called Roma. It has rich hard and soft corals. Another is Lorenzo’s delight. There is always a protected reef to dive in any weather condition. Some of the dives are West facing, some North and some East. I will be exploring some of these dive sites in more detail in the next issue. For more infofrmation go to www.wakatobi.com or contact linda @wakatobi.com.

Stunning Soft Corals dot the sheer walls of the House Reef

Resident Ornate Crays on the night dive

Red Tail Pipe fish

Remora and Green Turtles are a common sight

Staff wave you off as you bid farewell to your island paradise

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DIVE LOG Australasia #410 - February ‘25