UECWA Newsletter
7th November 2024
Upcoming Dives
Mandurah Double Dives - 13-22/12
Dive Report - Saturday 2nd November
Photo credit - Martin Crossley
10 divers set out on Saturday with Skipper Geoff and DO Dave enroute to Crystal Palace and Yellow Buoy Shark Cave for a great day out on the newly refurbished Cape Cruiser.
What was noticeably different was how quick the trip is out to Rotto now, as well as a bit more rocking about on the deck below! Definitely important to keep all dive tanks and bags secure.
Although we aimed for Crystal Palace on the GPS we ended up at Porpoise Bay Cave about 100m south of Crystal Palace. With not a lot of surface current, divers were treated to decent dive conditions below with about 15m viz. We spotted a large Wobby, a few cuttlefish, nudis, a one-eyed octopus, a couple of crays and a new cave we shall rename Western Blue Devil cave. They were everywhere!
Our second dive at Yellow Buoy was similar conditions to the first but with viz deteriorating to about 10m by the end of the dive. After searching the main cave a few of us decided to explore the country around the cave. No sharks today but we did manage to see large schools of bullseye, an inquisitive tuna, a cute little stingaree, old wives and loads of soft corals.
We were back by 1:30pm to refuel the boat and get the rest of our housework done so we could enjoy a lazy Sunday. Many thanks to Geoff and Dave for a lovely day out on the boat.
Taryn Schuster
Dive Report - Sunday 3rd November
Nine divers turned up for this second weekend dive. The weather wasn’t that different than experienced on Saturday. Brighter and perhaps less choppy on the way out. However, our Skipper Mike was more focused on the swell which was significantly higher than the day before. Ultimately Skipper elected to seek shelter from the swell and SW winds, on the North side of Rottnest just off from Geordie Bay. A dive site recently named as “Bad Boy Wobbie” on account of our skipper having a difficult encounter with a Wobbie at this spot a few weeks earlier. Of the nine divers who entered the water, seven were armed with Cray loops. General consensus on the return of all divers, was nice enough country, great visibility, but wouldn’t rush back. Enough Crays were captured to keep people happy. The second dive site was around the corner at Duck Rock off Thompsons Bay. Again chosen to limit the impact of adverse swell and wind. Not a deep dive but popular enough. A few more Crays added to the haul with Malcolm reaching his bag limit. Then it was off back to Port with the Cruiser skipping across the waves. Forty five minutes from Thompsons Bay back to Coogee. Another great day.
David Kirk
UEC Christmas Family Boat Trip 2024
As the holiday season approaches, we’re thrilled to announce our Christmas Family Boat Trip! Mark your calendars for a fun-filled day on the water.
Date: Sunday, December 8th
Join us for a delightful day of swimming and snorkelling! This trip is perfect for families and friends looking to enjoy the beautiful marine environment together. Spaces are limited, so be sure to book your spot now to secure your place on this festive adventure!
Itinerary:
- Departure: 9:30 AM
- Return: 3:00 PM
- Activities: Swimming, snorkelling, and enjoying the sun!
If you can’t make it on the boat, don’t worry! We invite everyone to join us afterward at the Coogee Boathouse Pub at 3:30 PM. It’ll be a great opportunity to unwind, enjoy some drinks, and catch up with fellow club members to kick off the silly season!
Cape Cruiser Returns to Mandurah for Festive Fun
Cape Cruiser is back in Mandurah for a festive season of adventure from Friday, December 13th to Sunday, December 22nd. Enjoy double dive excursions during the day and scenic canal cruises in the evening to admire the dazzling Christmas light displays. Spots are limited, so be sure to book early to secure your place on these popular holiday activities. Don't miss out on the festive fun!
Important Information for Dive Bookings
All members who have paid their fees for the year 2024/2025 should be able to access the dive calendar on the new website and mobile app. Please Contact Us if you are having any issues.
If you would like notice of dive cancellations during our peak periods, then please contact Donna at divebookings@uecwa.com.au with your name and phone number to be added to a WhatsApp group.
Cancelling a Dive Ahead of Time
Important to note that you cannot cancel dives using the dive calendar. Cancellation needs to be by email directly to Donna at divebookings@uecwa.com.au
Please note our cancellation policy below as per the club bylaws:
Cancellations between 07:45 and 16:00 the day before: 50% cancellation fee.
Cancellations after 16:00 the day before: 100% cancellation fee.
No-shows: Full event fee.
Appeals for waivers due to medical reasons or family emergencies can be submitted in writing to the committee.
If you have any questions please check out our FAQ's, Contact Us or chat to your Committee members when you see us on the boat!
Newsletter Editor
Mel Daws - Public Relations
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