Modern Australian
Men's Weekly

.

Celebrate the Year of the Great Barrier Reef

  • Written by Liz Inglis


Celebrate the International Year of the Coral Reef by discovering just what is so great about Australia's Great Barrier Reef.

The Great Barrier Reef is the only place in the world where you can swim with Dwarf Minke Whales, float over colourful giant clams and look for six of the world's seven species of turtle.

Whether you like your Reef adventures big or small, wet or dry; exceptional visitor experiences can be found in Tropical North Queensland, the gateway to this World Heritage area.

Those wishing to tick bucket list boxes will look for the Great Eight – Clownfish, Potato Cod, giant clams, Manta rays, Maori wrasse, sharks, turtles and whales.

But don't stop there! The Great Barrier Reef has the “Magic Millions” – coral chomping Parrotfish, colour-changing Cuttlefish, and so much more.

With 1625 species of fish, one-third of the world's coral species and a mosaic of different reefs along its 2300km length, every day and night on the Great Barrier Reef delivers a different and memorable “David Attenborough” moment.

These days you are spoilt for choice with the way you experience the Reef. There are better boats, the latest equipment and knowledge shared by passionate crew to make the experience even better.

Tropical North Queensland's eco-accredited Reef operators offer diverse ways to explore the Great Barrier Reef with diving, snorkelling, stand-up paddle boarding, helicopter flights, island getaways, helmet diving, kayaking, sailing, citizen science projects, live-aboard expeditions, semi-submersibles and marine biologist guided tours.

Several new vessels have joined the Reef fleet, an additional outer Reef pontoon has been installed, another has been refurbished with the addition of the Reef's first waterslide and a dive centre will soon open in Port Douglas adding even more ways to experience the Great Barrier Reef in Tropical North Queensland.

Pick your “David Attenborough” moment

Discover one of the best shark experiences in the world while diving with Mike Ball Dive Expeditions. The live-aboard expedition takes you to spectacular, remote Coral Sea drop-offs that attract charismatic mega fauna and plunge thousands of metres into the ocean. www.mikeball.com

Follow a Quicksilver marine biologist on a snorkelling tour of Agincourt Reef to discover Farmer Joe, a white Damselfish that picks up coral pieces placed on his patch and spits them outside the boundary to keep his farm clean. www.quicksilver-cruises.com

Encounter a family of giant Potato Cod at the iconic Cod Hole on a Coral Sea adventure with Spirit of Freedom which includes the picturesque Ribbon Reefs. Extraordinary coral towers, Olive Sea Snakes and an endless array of colourful fish can be seen. www.spiritoffreedom.com.au

Swim with a Dwarf Minke Whale or cruise past a spy-hopping Humpback Whale when they migrate through the Great Barrier Reef in Winter. The Ribbon Reefs are the only place where you are permitted to swim with the Dwarf Minke Whales. www.diversden.com.au

Tick off two or three of the bucket list Great Eight at the Frankland Islands where a variety of Clownfish swim through colourful anemones. Manta rays put on a show at their cleaning station and turtles nest on the islands during breeding season. www.franklandislands.com.au

Listen to the Parrotfish chomp on coral with their parrot-like beak and discover how they start life as drab coloured females before some become colourful males. Down Under Cruise and Dive visits reefs where these sex-changing fish can be seen. www.downunderdive.com.au

Join a scientist for access to rarely seen snorkelling sites at Lizard Island and learn first-hand about the challenges the Great Barrier Reef faces. There are just 12 spots on this expedition which includes a guided tour of the island's research station. www.lizardisland.com.au

Watch a turtle being released it has been cared for by the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre. The turtles swim free from Sunlover's new Moore Reef pontoon, but you can slide in from the Great Barrier Reef's first floating spaghetti jet waterslide. www.sunlover.com.au

Experience the regeneration of the Great Barrier Reef during the annual coral spawn after the full moon in November. Tusa Dive run seasonal night tours so you can dive or snorkel among tiny pink bubbles that will be tomorrow's coral. www.tusadive.com

Sign up to be a citizen scientist for the day with Passions of Paradise. Join an accredited EcoGuide on a snorkelling tour to document the marine life you see for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority database. www.passions.com.au

Float above a garden of 80-year-old giant clams at Mackay Cay to see more colour than you will find in a rainbow. The trip on Sailaway IV Guests departs from the sandy beach of Cape Tribulation in the Daintree rainforest. www.sailawaycapetrib.com

Go underwater without getting wet on a Big Cat Green Island Cruises air-conditioned semi-submarine to see juvenile fish using the seagrass around Green Island as protection. It is also a feeding ground for turtles and dugong. www.greenisland.com.au

Terns, noddy birds and frigates are just some of the 20,000 sea birds that call Michaelmas Cay home. Ocean Spirit Cruises sails to this Great Barrier Reef bird sanctuary where you can swim with turtles straight off the beach.

www.oceanspirit.com.au

Holidays & Travel

Slowing Down in Nature: My Experience on Orchid Classic Cruise in Lan Ha Bay

Why Orchid Classic is a Top Choice for Lan Ha Bay Lan Ha Bay, a hidden gem adjacent to the more famous Ha Long Bay, offers travelers a quieter and more...

How to Reduce Turbo Lag with an Upgraded Mazda BT-50 Exhaust System

Are you struggling with turbo lag affecting your driving experience?  Did you know upgrading your Mazda BT-50 exhaust system could be the key to unlocking smoother acceleration and enhanced vehicle performance? Exhaust...

Surprise Party Ideas That Will Leave Your Guests Speechless

Throwing a surprise party is one of the most exciting ways to celebrate a special occasion. The thrill of keeping it a secret combined with the joy of watching the...

The Most Scenic Sailing Destinations in Australia and New Zealand

Australia and New Zealand are home to some of the world’s most breathtaking sailing destinations. With vast coastlines, pristine waters, and diverse landscapes, these countries offer incredible opportunities for sailors...

A Guide to Finding Caravans for Sale for Your Australian Road Trip

From the rugged Outback to stunning coastal drives, there's no better way to explore Australia than in a home on wheels. If you're considering joining the caravan community, you're likely...

Must-Have Outdoor Gear for Your Next Trip

 Introduction Getting ready for your next outdoor adventure but not sure what gear makes the cut? Selecting quality equipment optimized for the conditions helps ensure fun and safety during backcountry trips...

5 Innovative Caravan Accessories to Enhance Your Travel Experience

Caravanning offers a unique and liberating way to explore the world around us. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first adventure, having the right accessories can significantly...

Conventional Tent or Roof Top Tent? Which Is Better for Camping in Australia?

For camping in Australia, it depends on factors like terrain and climate. A roof top tent is sturdy in rugged areas and elevates you above ground risks. In flat places like parks...

Choosing the Best Boat Seats: A Comprehensive Guide for Water Enthusiasts

Boat seats are not just about providing comfort during your time on the water; they can significantly impact your overall boating experience. Whether you're cruising leisurely, fishing, or engaging in...

Brisbane Road Accident Lawyers and Bus Accident Compensation

Navigating the aftermath of a road accident in Brisbane, especially one involving a bus, can be a daunting experience. Whether you’re a passenger...

Freezer Room Hire in Perth: The Ultimate Solution for Reliable Cold Storage

Ever found yourself in a cold storage crisis and wondering how to save your perishables before they go bad?   Well, this isn't something new. Pe...

Why Exterior Window Cleaning Is More Than Just Aesthetic

Most people see window cleaning as a finishing touch. Something you do before guests come over or when the smudges finally start to annoy you. It is...

How Duct Inspections Can Save You Money Long-Term

Ever noticed your energy bill creeping up without changing your habits? It is more common than you might think, especially in Melbourne homes where ...

Designing Secure Content APIs in Headless CMS Environments

APIs are what enable content to be delivered from a headless CMS to anywhere digital content can exist from websites and apps to IoT and more. Yet whi...

How to Choose the Right First Aid Kit for Your Workplace

Ever walked past your workplace first aid kit and wondered if that dusty box actually contains what you'd need in a real emergency? We know that fee...

The Role of Mining Equipment Suppliers in the Industry

Mining is one of the most essential industries, driving the global economy by providing raw materials for manufacturing, energy production, and infr...

From White Belt To Warrior: How To Train Your Body For BJJ Endurance

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is as much a mental chess match as it is a physical grind. Whether you’re new to the mats or prepping for high-level com...

Driving After Brain Injury: Common Challenges and How To Overcome Them.

Suffering a traumatic brain injury (TBI) can drastically influence a person's ability to drive safely. For many, driving represents independence, bu...

The Psychology of Stepping Up: Why We Avoid Helping—and How to Fix That

Most of us like to think of ourselves as kind, helpful people. We imagine that if someone needed assistance—especially in an emergency—we’d st...

Cross-Continental Collaboration: Nutifood and Viplus Dairy to Create Australian- Standard Premium Dairy Brand

Vietnam’s Nutifood has officially entered a strategic partnership with ViPlus Dairy, a heritage-rich dairy manufacturer with over 130 years of ex...

Commercial Plastering Can Boost Your Business Appeal

In business, appearances matter. The way your space looks sets the tone for how clients, customers, and even your staff perceive your brand. A well-...

How to Transfer Registration When You Buy a Used Car in Brisbane

Purchasing a second-hand car can be a thrilling experience, but there's more to it than simply handing over the cash and driving off. One very impor...

Expert Tips for Comparing Budget Movers and Energy Providers For a Modern Apartment

Starting a new life in a modern apartment can be a challenging yet exciting step. While moving into a modern apartment, people always need reliable ...

Slowing Down in Nature: My Experience on Orchid Classic Cruise in Lan Ha Bay

Why Orchid Classic is a Top Choice for Lan Ha Bay Lan Ha Bay, a hidden gem adjacent to the more famous Ha Long Bay, offers travelers a quieter and ...

Your Next Travel Essential? Why Aussies Love Lightweight Electric Wheelchairs

Planning for a trip or just getting around town? A lightweight electric wheelchair could be your perfect travel mate. Whether it’s a stroll throug...

Australian Study Woes – What is a Confirmation of Enrolment?

Recent changes to Australian study visas are altering the landscape for international students who want to learn and work on our shores.  To secur...

Metal lockers vs. wooden lockers: which is better?

Lockers—the ultimate background hero of the workplace. They might not have the flashiness of that overpriced espresso machine in the break room, b...