Exploring some of our local reef

The first dive of 2021 did not disappoint! Having only recently moved to the Sunshine Coast, this was my first trip to some of our local reef. The site is called ‘Wobby Rock’, but don’t let the name fool you, we didn’t see any Wobbys! (Although, I’m sure they’re around sometimes.)

This is a very easy dive site, made even easier by the excellent visibility we had. The ride out was a little choppy (about 15 minutes off the coast of Mooloolaba) but once underwater, you didn’t even notice the choppy conditions above. Depth ranged from about 15-20 meters.

Overall both dives were very relaxing and with plenty of diversity in both reef and other marine life. The topography of this site is scattered with small bommies, with a few larger ones that occasionally provide small swim-throughs. Make sure to check the underside of the bommies for shy octopus!

I absolutely love the lighting on this fan coral below. The softer colour of the coral is nicely offset by the vivid blue behind.

I saw several box fish on the second dive. These little guys have some of the most beautiful patterns that you’ll see on a reef fish. The trouble is, they’re extremely shy! Scared away by SCUBA bubbles, I find it nearly impossible to photograph these fish from the front. Still, you can see the stunning patterns on this little fella from behind.

If 2021 can provide more diving like this, then I think I’ll be very happy!