Scuba GOAT

Do you struggle to understand the complexities of underwater photography? Nicolas Remy (Multi award-winning underwater photographer and founder of The Underwater Club) joins me in the studio to shed some light on this intricate art. Nicolas and his wife, Lena caught my attention initially through their awesome pictures and furthermore because they dived on rebreathers. From what I see, there is a lot of sense in rebreather diving for photographing wildlife so who better to ask than the man who's doing just that? The extended dive times, the silence, and the opportunity to get much closer without disturbing your subject. Nicolas talks us through the two rebreathers they use, the Revo and Horizon. Not only does Nicolas take a fine shot, he really enjoys sharing his skills with others. Teaching people and breaking subjects down into a more understandable format is truly a passion of his. So, Nicolas has quit the corporate world and devoted the last 18 months fine-tuning The Underwater Club and its contents. It is an exceptional forum for two-way communications and ram packed with Nicolas' knowledge to be shared with all club members through various means, expanding on his availability as a one-on-one coach. A keen writer, he has also penned content for Scuba Diver magazine and Narked at 90, with additional content in WETPIXEL and OZ Diver. We anticipate the launch of the website very VERY soon, to stay abreast of that date you can sign up early (and have an added chance to win a prize).  Join me in the studio as Nicolas walks us along the path from a discover scuba dive on Kangaroo island, to global recognition for his underwater photography and the formation of The Underwater Club.   DON'T FORGET TO SIGN UP FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A PRIZE! DO THAT HERE     Nicholas' Links Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicolaslenaremy Nicolas & Lena on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicolaslenaremy/ Photography website:https://www.nicolaslenaremy.com/     The Underwater Club links website: https://theunderwaterclub.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theuwclub/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheUWClub/     Nicolas' awards and wins There are so many to mention so it best you head on over to Nicolas and Lena's website to see the full list: Awards page     Additional links Revo rebreathers: https://www.revo-rebreathers.com/ Horizon by Mares: https://www.mares.com/en/horizon Whalex article: https://createdigital.org.au/engineers-fake-whale-poo-carbon-removal/ Scuba Diver mag: https://www.scubadivermag.com/ Narked at 90:

You must be a fan of scuba diving if your listening to me right now, and are you also interested in watches?  Even more so, luxury dive watches? Rolex, Breitling, and Omega all have quite a few commonalities, with one key feature, they were created with passion. This leads me nicely to introduce this week's guest, Sean Clements. Sean has two passions, watches and diving and a few years ago, he found a way to combine them and create a path to align with his future away from the corporate rat race. Sean Clements' vision Sean's vision led him to create SDC Watches, a dive watch brand that offers luxurious watches for everyday dive adventures whilst also contributing to conservation, both by upcycling and donating some of the profits to conservation projects. The SDC brand What sets SDC Watches apart is their commitment to protecting the oceans. Sean recognized that there is a huge amount of neoprene waste, particularly old and used wetsuits, that ultimately end up in landfills. To tackle this issue, Sean decided to repurpose these watery rags and incorporate them into his watches. The result is an encapsulated neoprene strap design that not only looks great but also helps reduce waste and protect our oceans whilst maintaining that luxury feel.  The attention to detail in these watches is evident in every aspect. The SDC cookie logo and laser engraving, the original styling of an older dive watch with its rotational dive bezel, harks back to a time when chunky Seikos & Omega's were the epitome of a diver's watch (flashbacks to eye-balling my dad's watch as a kid). And the naked rear case, which allows you to see the inner mechanism, is a luxurious touch that completes the package. With a 300m depth rating these really are a sexy statement. As a fellow diver, I'm eagerly awaiting my own SDC Watch to arrive. I appreciate the company's commitment to sustainability and conservation efforts, and I'm excited to show my support by wearing one of their watches. It's clear that Sean has put his heart and soul into creating a product that not only looks great but also makes a positive impact on our planet. If you would like your own SDC watch, head on over to the SDC website and use SCUBAGOAT10 to recieve a 10% discount Join us on this episode as we dive deeper into Sean's journey as a diver, businessman, and conservationist. We'll learn more about his vision for SDC Watches and how he's making a difference in the world of luxury watches and ocean conservation.   Don't forget to use SCUBAGOAT10 for your 10% discount through the SDC website

Don Silcock, Senior travel editor of Scuba Diver magazine, owner of Indo Pacific Images and my good mate joins me in the studio for a long overdue catch-up, a good yarn and a couple of beers. Join me as we discuss Don's travels and many other topics; travelling through India by motorcycle,  collecting photogrammetry images in Papua New Guinea with Sean Twomey,  South Australia - sharks and cuttlefish, Tasmania in search of handfish and DEEP corals,  Mexico to dive with crocodiles and enter the Cenotes Patagonia to dive with Southern Write Whales El BLANCO!! Camera equipment Yucatan chaos International flights Raja Ampat - Sorido Bay Resort and interviews with Max Ammer This episode is simply STACKED and not one to miss.  Don goes into detail about the political complexities/ authorisations required to be able to dive in Patagonia with the Southern Right Whales.  He also gives a full breakdown of some heart-pounding moments and close calls with a 5-ton calf.  That's without mentioning El Blanco... The White OneDon is on form as ever and an absolute encyclopedia of information, so pin your ears back and dive in to hear about many locations that you may recognise and many that may also be new to you. 

Dan Johnson is the man in charge of MV Oceania, co-owner, and captain of this beautiful vessel, and joins me to kick off Season 4. MV Oceania is a liveaboard scuba diving vessel that operates out of Walindi Plantation, New Britain, Papua New Guinea.Papua New Guinea, located in the Coral Triangle of the Asia Pacific region, is situated just south of the equator and 100 miles north of Australia. The country encompasses the eastern side of New Guinea Island and 600 smaller islands and atolls. Known for its rich indigenous cultures, Papua New Guinea is home to over 800 languages, making up one-third of the world's languages, and boasts the largest area of untouched rainforest outside the Amazon.PNG offers incredible scuba diving opportunities with its untouched coral reefs, diverse marine life, and unique culture. The diving hotspots in PNG include Milne Bay in the South, Kimbe Bay, and Kavieng town or Lissenung Island. Divers and underwater photographers come from all over to witness the coral atolls and walls, WWII wrecks, barrier reefs, and other underwater photography subjects the Indo-Pacific region is renowned for. The country also boasts beautiful tropical jungles and mountain ranges on land.If you're planning to dive in PNG, it's a must to include a land tour to experience the local tribes. With 28,000 miles of reef systems, divers are unlikely to encounter other groups, making it a perfect destination for those looking for a secluded diving experience. The country offers various dive resorts and liveaboard options catering to all levels of divers and is renowned for its spectacular scuba diving."Having lived and worked in PNG, I personally rate it as my top hotspot for tropical diving. A must for any avid diver!" (Matt Waters)Dan is a well-respected figure in the diving industry, known for his extensive knowledge and expertise in navigating the waters of Papua New Guinea, particularly the spectacular reefs of New Britain.In this 2-part series, we discuss MV Oceania's past, present, and future plans for exploration scuba diving in Papua New Guinea, as well as Dan Johnson's journey and experience as a dive leader. So, join us as we explore the depths of Papua New Guinea's ocean and the story of Dan Johnson and MV Oceania, the ultimate liveaboard scuba diving vessel in this region.

Dan Johnson is the man in charge of MV Oceania, co-owner, and captain of this beautiful vessel, and joins me to kick off Season 4. MV Oceania is a liveaboard scuba diving vessel that operates out of Walindi Plantation, New Britain, Papua New Guinea.Papua New Guinea, located in the Coral Triangle of the Asia Pacific region, is situated just south of the equator and 100 miles north of Australia. The country encompasses the eastern side of New Guinea Island and 600 smaller islands and atolls. Known for its rich indigenous cultures, Papua New Guinea is home to over 800 languages, making up one-third of the world's languages, and boasts the largest area of untouched rainforest outside the Amazon.PNG offers incredible scuba diving opportunities with its untouched coral reefs, diverse marine life, and unique culture. The diving hotspots in PNG include Milne Bay in the South, Kimbe Bay, and Kavieng town or Lissenung Island. Divers and underwater photographers come from all over to witness the coral atolls and walls, WWII wrecks, barrier reefs, and other underwater photography subjects the Indo-Pacific region is renowned for. The country also boasts beautiful tropical jungles and mountain ranges on land.If you're planning to dive in PNG, it's a must to include a land tour to experience the local tribes. With 28,000 miles of reef systems, divers are unlikely to encounter other groups, making it a perfect destination for those looking for a secluded diving experience. The country offers various dive resorts and liveaboard options catering to all levels of divers and is renowned for its spectacular scuba diving."Having lived and worked in PNG, I personally rate it as my top hotspot for tropical diving. A must for any avid diver!" (Matt Waters)Dan is a well-respected figure in the diving industry, known for his extensive knowledge and expertise in navigating the waters of Papua New Guinea, particularly the spectacular reefs of New Britain.In this 2-part series, we discuss MV Oceania's past, present, and future plans for exploration scuba diving in Papua New Guinea, as well as Dan Johnson's journey and experience as a dive leader. So, join us as we explore the depths of Papua New Guinea's ocean and the story of Dan Johnson and MV Oceania, the ultimate liveaboard scuba diving vessel in this region.

Nusa Penida is a stunning island off the east coast of Bali– one look at the dazzling cliffs, hidden coves and secret beaches, and you’ll think you’ve stumbled into a spectacular island paradise.  Each time I visit I am blown away by the location, the people, and the diving.  This location benefits from several powerful currents that bring nutrient-rich waters, which support a vast array of marine biodiversity and reef growth. In my opinion, Nusa Penida is the next up-and-coming dive location in the region.  I say that loosely, as it is already well-known for its diving and in particular, diving with mantas at Manta Point.  But this is not yet reflected in the number of travellers to the island; and neighbouring islands like Nusa Lembongan tend to be more well known.  In the last few years, Nusa Penida has had a build and growth spurt with a number of dive shops opening up as well as hotels, hostels, homestays and restaurants. My good buddy Jason Fondis, co-owner and manager of Blue Corner Dive Nusa Penida was the first guest to record a Scuba GOAT podcast episode back in 2020, against a backdrop of remote connection issues!  Today I join him on location, at the dive shop, to catch up and see what has been occurring over the last two years at Blue Corner Nusa Penida.Blue Corner Dive Nusa Penida is one of the three locations under the Blue Corner umbrella.  HQ is located just a 10-minute ferry ride away on Nusa Lembongan and the third location is situated on the northwestern coast of Bali, Menjangan.  Specialists in PADI training from Open Water through to professional certifications, the Blue Corner team are a fantastic bunch and I would recommend diving with them at any of their awesome locations.If you are considering a trip to Nusa Penida and would like advice on how to get there, which hotel to use, and booking your diving then get in touch with me directly and I can arrange an entire package for you. 

Josh Richards may not have decades of caving experience under his belt, however what he does have is a love for Wombats and the desire to act like one at times.  Joking aside, Josh's thirst for adventure started whilst diving as a kid with his father, continuing into a military career as a soldier and Royal Marine, a comedian, a science geek, and even as a candidate with a one way ticket to inhabit Mars!Josh talks openly about his journey through life and its various stages leading up to his discoveries with his dive wife, Matt Aisbett and in detail about the discovery itself. The Engelbrechts east extension.  Englebrechts cave history1865 - Originally described in a publication by Julian Tenison-Woods, the cave system was referred to as Vansittarts cave. 1885 - Carl Engelbrecht's purchase of a flour mill located nearby, which he converted  into a whiskey distillery (good man!) used the cave as a dumping ground for his waste products.  This led to the cave system being referred to as the Engelbrecht cave. 1929 - the land on which the cave is located was purchased by the then District Council and the cave was sealed off. 1969 - The council invites expressions of interest to open the cave for potential tourism.  Reportedly, it was not suitable for tourist development and remained shut.1979 - The Lions Club of Mount Gambier commenced a project to beautify the cave to the tune of $10,0001995 - Engelbrecht Cave was added to the South Australian Heritage Register 2019 - Dive buddies Matthew Aisbett and Josh Richards mooch around the end of the east cave system and find access to an enormous previously undiscovered cave system running under the centre of town. 2022 - Josh joins me on the show to reflect on many of his life adventures and what is now known as the Engelbrechts east extension. 

Jolyon Collier is the founder of Counting Coral, a not-for-profit organisation bridging the gap between conservation, art, corporations, tourism and local interests.As a highly successful businessman, Jolyon created his wealth in the construction industry.  Over the years his success has fed his appetite to be in the ocean, initially as a surfer, then videographer and diver, and now conservationist.  As a young man, Jolyon found himself drawn to Fiji with his surfboard under one arm and a video camera in the other.  The videography of surfers was still relatively new, so Jolyon capitalised on this and sold his footage to the tourist surfers and whilst waiting for them to cruise past, Jolyon's attention was drawn to (you guessed it) the reefs.With a rather humorous, if not completely dangerous introduction to diving, Jolyon experienced the underwater world off the coast of Malibu and was instantly hooked.  Since those days he has had an entire and rewarding career in the construction industry, ultimately leading to an early retirement and a change of focus back to the reefs.Counting Coral is leading the development of Sculptural Coral Banks, a new and advanced method to aid coral growth.  These structures are designed to support the growth of corals in a manner, that once they bloom they become part of the overall artistic design.  Furthermore, the corals introduced to the structures are carefully selected from local reefs so that they can be reintroduced once a favourable parent coral has propagated. Jolyon and his team of scientists, divers and conservationists install the sculptures themselves, select and collect the corals and will, in turn, reintroduce the corals back to the original reef locations. There are multiple benefits to this system, not only are we protecting, preserving and promoting coral growth but we are creating a new attraction for tourism.  Divers, freedivers and snorkelers eager for that next amazing picture or video have an epic backdrop with radiant natural light striking through the clear Fijian water.  Local resorts that partner with Counting Coral can proudly announce their part in developing the ongoing eco-protection of their reefs.  More importantly, the natural reefs receive some relief from visitors who may be unaware of how delicate an environment it is.  Finally, the structures can aid in scientific research and support those corals that may be diminishing.  It's also worth noting that those corals registered as "known" in Fiji are actually just a replication of what is found throughout Australasia, Jolyon's team are able to identify those corals and have even possibly found corals that may previously have been unknown to Fijian Waters.If you can spare two minutes, please review the podcast on any of the major streaming platforms (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ are awesome btw )and tell your buddies about the show. You can also follow, share, and like us on all of the social media platforms and add to our numbers. It all goes a very long way and is very much appreciated.Finally, if you would like to appear on the show don't hesitate to get in touch and let's start chatting!All of our links can be found in the footer or simply click our LinkTree here... 

Michael Menduno has been diving and reporting on technical diving since 1990 when he founded the AquaCORPS magazine and its sister publication Technical Diver. A reporter, technologist and member of the Board of Directors for the historical diver's society, Michael is the editor-in-chief of Global Underwater Explorers online magazine InDEPTH. He is also a contributing editor for Dan Europe's ALERT DIVER and X-ray magazine, and he also writes for DEEPER BLUE. To top it off, Michael also worked with Captain Billy Dean to set up the first tech diving centre, based in Key West, which rapidly became a global mecca for tech diver training.Michael is also the organiser of the Rebreather Forum, with the latest conference being RF4 (20-22 April 2023). Held in Malta, the Rebreather Forum has a stellar line-up of presenters including Mark Caney, Brian Carney or designee, Simon Caruana, John Clarke, David Doolette, Vince Ferris, Oscar Franberg, Timmy Gambin, Kevin Gurr, Richard Harris, Paul Haynes, Gareth Lock, Alessandro Marroni, Michael Menduno, Simon Mitchell, Andy Pitkin, Neal Pollock, Frauke Tillmans, and Paul Toomer. So if there is anything you ever wanted to know about rebreather diving, this is the place to be.Topics of conversationMichael's background in divingThe origins of the term "Tech Diver"Rebreather Forum origins and Rebreather 4Michael's first breaths underwater to technical diverHistorical overview of tech divingThe origins of AquaCORPS and InDEPTH magazinesThe background of Michael and Captain Billy DeanThe passage of information prior to computersPADI joins the tech chatThe bridging of the gap between recreational and technical divingThe importance of Human Factors in divingClose Calls, authored by Stratis S Kas (Amazon link)'Stoned' with Bill Stone - A harp back to the early days of reportingWhat's next for Michael?Links and exit.

"Not all heroes wear capes." This is so true... they sometimes wear fins too! Lyndi Leggett wears fins, and to many she is an absolute superhero.  A few years ago, sick of the corporate world Lyndi was trawling through social media and came across an article about David J Lawrence Sr and his son, Scuba Junior.  Following surgery, David Jr was rendered disabled, paralyzed from the neck down.  Today, albeit he is still paralyzed on one side, David Jr has regained use of his right side and leads a much more fulfilling life.  Lyndi reached out to David Sr asking what it would take for her to open a Scuba Gym in Australia.The Scuba Gym Australia operates out of the Central Coast and provides diving possibilities for people with a vast array of disabilities.  Throughout this episode Lyndi talks with passion about the successes of her divers so far (see below for links to the videos of those mentioned during the show) and what the future holds for The Scuba Gym. The Scuba Gym is now a not-for-profit operation and Lyndi holds the golden ticket to the growth of it.  Lyndi's dream is to see a Scuba Gym in every major city in Australia. Quite rightly so too. If you would like to help Lyndi in any way possible then get in touch.  You can email or send a message to Lyndi directly or through the show links and social media. For those of you that would love to join the scuba gym but are not sure if you can. Lyndi has a qualified dive doctor who can talk to you about your disabilities and confirm if you can be authorised to get in the water and have a go at scuba diving.  #getinvolved you'll love it!! The scuba gym America

Lady Elliot Island is a destination that epitomises eco-centric tourism.  It is a true reflection of the dedication, hard work, focus and drive afforded to her by so many people over the years, past and present, and none more so than the island's current custodian, Peter Gash.I am elated to host Peter on the show and discuss not only his success in realising his dreams so far but also the island's successes.  Peter has dedicated a lifetime to the islands in this region and first visited Lady Elliot as a child, and was instantly struck by its beauty and mysticism.Lady Elliot is approximately 80 kilometres northeast of Bundaberg and is nestled between Fraser Island and Lady Musgrave Island.  The is also the closest Great Barrier Reef island to Brisbane, Queensland’s southern capital.  lady Elliot Island lies within a Marine National Park ‘Green Zone’ and forms part of Australia’s World Heritage Listed Area on the Great Barrier Reef.Though I'm yet to visit Lady Elliot Island, I can tell there is something very special about this location. Obviously, it is stunning; a spectacular tropical destination that's apart from the bustle of everyday life, not to mention a scuba diver's dream; but it's much more than that.  Through minimal digital connectivity, it forces visitors to put down their smartphones and realise the beauty of a moment, our earth, our ocean and our home  - but not viewed through a screen enhanced by Photoshop and alike.  Much more importantly, Lady Elliot is not an example, but THE example of what we can do for our earth and its inhabitants when we focus, dedicate and commit to doing the right thing.As for the man making this happen, you won't find him on social media at all, he's far too busy working on the next major project and looking after this island paradise.  You can, however, read more about him on their webpage, better still, go and pay him a visit!!Scuba GOAT is an independent production and can be found across all social media platforms.  Are you a dive pro or operator? Do you know your location? Do you want to increase your customer base? If the answer is yes, get in touch as we would love to host you on the show and help raise awareness of your operations and/ or passions.  Simply fill out the form found on our LinkTree.

Nays Baghai is a young and impressive director with an exceptionally keen and creative eye.  His feature film debut, Descent, won the Best Australian Documentary award at the Oscar-qualifying Sydney Film Festival and has gone on to be available on Amazon Prime ANZ. Having been screened at numerous other film festivals such as, the International Film Festival, Hot Docs and Raindance, Nays’ is taking his directing skills forward as he documents Scuba diving legend Jill Heinerth’s story in, Jill Heinerth: Room To Breathe.Nays joins me in the studio to talk about filming and of course, scuba diving.  He’s also presenting at OzTek this year so be sure to check it out if you are in Melbs for the show.  If you’ve not got your tickets yet you, click the button below and reserve your spot, we’ll see you there!  Nays’ links:  Scuba GOAT is an independent production and it is your feedback that makes it all worthwhile so, if you can spare 2 minutes to give us a        review on your platform of choice we’d really appreciate it.You can also contact Matt directly through any of our social media links with your ideas, comments and feedback.  Simply head on over to our LinkTree for all routes available.

Stephen Fordyce is sometimes described as a mad professor and I can't help thinking that there is some truth in that.  When it comes to listening to his explorations deep beneath the surface of the earth and then beneath the surface of the water therein.  Scuba diving is a relatively niche sport, and within it there are many more niche areas and I think Stephen has found the pinnacle of niche as a 'sump diver.'   Spending days lugging gear to remote locations, trekking into dry(ish) caves and creating base camps therein, to then explore kilometres of routes underwater certainly confirms that he's barking mad, but also justifies the recognition he rightly deserves as a fantastic explorer. 'Stephen has dived many caves around Australia and further afield - being a successful push diver at the pointy end of projects in Elk River Cave (Victoria), Growling Swallet and Niggly Caves (Tasmania), on the Nullarbor (WA) and West Timor (Indonesia). This culminated in receiving the 2019 OZTek Emerging Explorer Award.Since then, Stephen was the push diver in a large team effort which connected Growling Swallet and Niggly Cave, setting a new record for the deepest (mostly dry) cave in Australia, as well as for several other significant Tasmanian push dives.With a degree in Mechatronics Engineering and a professional background of designing industrial gas equipment, Stephen started TFM Engineering Australia, to combine his passions for 'making cool stuff' and technical diving, and now works full time designing and building technical diving equipment of all shapes and sizes.Despite enduring the pandemic in the most locked-down city in the world (Melbourne), Stephen spent his lockdown time developing a system of water tracing equipment and much of the rest field-testing and exploring caves in Tasmania. (OzTek biography 2022)Joining me on the show today, Stephen chats about some of his adventures including that fantastic latest achievement conducted with 8 equally barking mad explorer buddies

OZTek Advanced Diving Conference & OZDive Expo is a major international event that, since its inception in 1999, has done more to highlight the adventure and excitement inherent in diving than any other show. The show continues to play a key role in creating broad awareness of new techniques and technologies which transform and push back the boundaries of underwater knowledge.Produced by divers for divers, both OZTek Conference & OZDive Expo offer unique insights into the entire world of underwater adventure by encouraging a better understanding of all diving has to offer. This unique event represents a broad spread of diving interests - reflected by the Speaker and Exhibitor list - including many prominent world leaders in their particular fields of expertise; people whose wealth of knowledge is second-to-none and who are instrumental in helping to shape the future growth and development of diving.Focused on the full spectrum of underwater activities, (from recreational, technical, commercial, military and scientific diving through to free-diving and marine conservation issues) the two-day OZTek Advanced Diving Conference and OZDive Expo merge all facets of diving into one event aimed at promoting the exhilaration and adventure of diving to a passionate and enthusiastic audience.Joining me in the studio is Sue Crowe to discuss a variety of topics including a shout-out to a number of presenters that will be sharing their experiences during the two-day event. TicketsOZDive SHOW GENERAL ENTRY - $45.00Tickets are available at the door from 8 am Saturday and Sunday.General entry tickets allow a full range of The OZDive Show (see who'll be there); the Exhibitor workshops (unless otherwise stated); and the Photographic Image Centre which includes an Underwater Photographic Exhibition, Photographic Workshops and a Winners' Display of the OZDive 2022 Underwater Photographic Competition (including the Nikon Dive Shot of the Year). Come and explore!Children under 15 are FREE if accompanied by an adultOZTek SINGLE SPEAKER TICKET - $45.00 + entry ticketNever been to OZTek before? Want to try just a small taste? Perhaps there is one presentation you simply MUST see - then the Single Speaker Ticket is perfect for you. This ticket includes one speaker of your choice as well as UNLIMITED access to the exhibition and associated activities. Please see the important note above. Single speaker tickets will be available during the event from the registration office.Please note: Unless otherwise stated, admission to all OZTek2022 speaker presentations will be restricted to Gold, Silver Passes and Single Speaker Tickets.OZTek2022 Single Speaker Ticket AUD $45.00 (these tickets will be available at registration and is on top of your General Entry)OZTek SILVER (SINGLE-DAY) PASS - $195 (Saturday OR Sunday)If you're unable to make both days of the Conference, you can purchase an OZTek2022 Silver Passes (Saturday) offering single-day access to the full spectrum of activities for the day of use, either Saturday or Sunday. A Silver Pass offers full access to ALL the OZTek speaker presentations, break-out sessions, workshops and seminars, plus UNLIMITED access to the exhibition and associated activities. A silver pass also includes on-demand access.Please note: Excludes the Gala Awards Dinner - held as a separate eventOZTek GOLD (TWO-DAY) PASS - $295Absolutely no better way to enjoy the full OZTek2022 experience than with the purchase of an OZTek2022 Gold Pass. Offering delegates full two-day access to ALL the OZTek speaker presentations, break-out sessions, workshops and seminars, plus UNLIMITED access to the exhibition and associated activities.

Gareth Lock and Mike Mason return to the Scuba GOAT podcast for a catch up on the latest in human Factors in diving.  Recently Gareth invited me to complete the remote training package "Essentials of human factors in diving" followed by a 2-day face-to-face course held at Dive Centre Bondi.  The course delves deeper into the meaning of Human Factors and how it relates to the dive industry and how it can be used to enhance not only our safety but our day-to-day processes before, during and after diving.  By creating The Human Diver training programs I believe Gareth has created a clear path of evolution for not only the scuba diving industry but for individual divers, regardless of their experience and qualification levels.  As a stand alone structure, the human diver is not designed to enhance any one training agency but focuses on how the diver, and his or her peers can operate to the best of their abilities.  No one decides that today I am going to go diving and lose a customer, run out of gas, damage coral or bolt to the surface.  Accidents happen, whether they are minor or major however, we can minimise these risks by being open to discussing sensitive subjects, errors in judgement and being honest with ourselves.  This is my review following The Human Diver training I received:"I have just completed the "Essentials of Human Factors in Diving" pre-learning for an HF course that I am excitedly attending later this week. The ‘Essentials’ is delivered remotely via online bite-sized tutorials. It is a little over 3 hours long in total, and as a 17-year military veteran turned 10-year multi-agency dive professional, I firmly believe that it should be included in ANY recreational diver training course, from try dives through all training programs and all agencies, to the top of the qualification tree and here’s why… We are taught from a very young age that there is a ladder of authority in all that we do. When we entered schooling that authority figure was a teacher and as such, there is an expected level of respect from the bottom up which ultimately prevents us from questioning the teacher. The same expected hierarchy occurs as we enter the workforce and beyond. It is therefore of no surprise that when we return to the learning environment, we are naturally holding back on questions and dampening down doubts or nerves for fear of perceived reprisal or embarrassment. Hindsight is a wonderful thing. Next time we’ll do it differently. What if… Just a few old phrases that are common and really have no place in our sports vocabulary. The Human Diver shines a light on such antiquated quotes, promptly kicks them in the bin and opens the door to a modern, safer, and more transparent diving environment. If you are considering becoming a diver, if you have been actively diving for 50 years, or anything in between you need The Human Diver in your scuba life!"

Dr Leonardo Guida, shark scientist and shark conservation lead at the Australian Marine Conservation Society joins us in this episode to talk through a variety of topics ranging from personal experiences swimming and diving with our apex predators to the conservation efforts currently in place throughout Australia and across the globe.Leo is actively involved in many projects including the "Nets out now" call for shark nets to be removed throughout Australia, he .appeared in the documentary produced by Andre Borell Envoy Shark Cull which focuses on the subject.  Leo emphasises the indiscriminate targeting that hails from these antiquated defence systems with a prime example being that of a Humpback Whale being caught in a net only a few days prior to this recording, with a further 2 more whales entangled since.We also discuss the apparent movement of sharks from locations such as South Africa pushing further south, presumably due to climate change and rising water temperatures.  With larger predators such as Great Whites moving into locations inhabited by more docile species such as Grey Nurse Sharks, are they to become a new target for the larger shark and what impact does this have on the overall balance in the regions?Leo talks with such passion it's hard to break away from listening to his experiences, skills and knowledge across a wide spectrum of conservation.  Actively sharing his knowledge via social media, Leo regularly posts updates on what is happening within Australia and you can follow him via the links on the Scuba GOAT website.

Comedy alert! Each season we have a little get together episode with Don Silcock, senior travel editor for Scuba Diver magazine and Lissa Rebec of Sea Shepherd.  However, now that borders are open, trying to get Lissa and Don in Sydney and available at the same time is virtually impossible!With that said, we managed to coax Don into the studio by waving a beer under his nose and as a bonus for the show his dive buddy of 20 years came along too... During this episode, we explore a number of topics, including Jayne's diving, international travel lounges that I didn't even know existed, Don's movements and writings, beer, wide-angle camera equipment preferences and diver training.  A little teaser of what may be occurring with the expansion of Scuba GOAT and the upcoming relaunch of Nomadic Scuba, all served up with a large dollop of hilarity, giggles and maybe the odd cuss word (you've been warned). The sensible text and a REAL intro to Jayne JenkinsJayne learnt to dive in the chilly waters along the rugged Welsh coastline before moving to Australia in 1973. She is actively involved in many facets of the diving industry and has been for over four decades and was previously a volunteer diver with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service in Sydney.  This led to Jayne working as a safety diver and researcher for various underwater film, television and photographic expeditions focusing on diving in the Pacific, including the cave diving spectacular Sanctum. Having been an active underwater photography instructor for many years, Jayne went on to establish the first digital shoot-out competition at Lord Howe Island and has won many awards for her photography and remains a regular editorial contributor to Dive Log and Ocean Geographic. For the past 18 years, Jayne has devoted time as Vice President of Australasia for the Our World-Underwater Scholarship Society (OWUSS) - a scholarship sponsored by Rolex for young underwater enthusiasts. Jayne has been an invaluable mentor to a lucky 13 scholars and has played a significant part in their lives but has now passed it on to one of the younger generation and one of the past scholars. Jayne is currently the resident photographer /consultant with The Ocean Agency formally the Catlin Seaview Survey a fast game-changing creative scientific project. Using specially designed technology, the Catlin Seaview Survey recorded and revealed the world's oceans and reefs like never before, in high-resolution, 360-degree panoramic vision. This led to being part of the brilliant documentary Chasing Coral. Jayne was also a safety diver/camera assistant for a documentary filmed in what she calls “her back yard” Chowder Bay, for the BBC National History unit about seahorses called Fierce Queens.Over her years working in travel and being a keen traveller, Jayne has visited places such as - South Africa, Socorro, Cuba, Indonesia, Philippines, New Zealand, Maldives, Tahiti, Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Tonga, Antarctica, Arctic and many more including Australia.Jayne is also a member of the prestigious Woman Divers Hall of Fame and a Fellow International of The Explorers Club.  Jayne on FacebookDon on FacebookMatt on Insta

Scuba IQ operates from Port Douglas, (north of Cairns) Queensland, Australia.  Clearly, Port Douglas is a perfect destination to get out and explore the Great Barrier Reef and that's exactly what Scuba IQ do. Originally from New Zealand, Martin Connolly spent a few years in the navy and then saw the light, jumped into a wetsuit and spent the next 20 years as a multi-agency dive instructor working in various locations such as Tonga, Spain, Turkey and Thailand.  Scuba IQ and Scuba IQ Expeditions are operated by Martin and his wife,  Louise.  Working closely with local operators they organise training packages as well as full boat charters, delivering an attentive service to the guests who choose to join them. Martin joins us on the show to provide an overview of how Scuba IQ became what it is today, were it is heading and what to expect from an adventure on the MV Argo and the future expeditions organised by Scuba IQ. Expeditions with available spaces:23-28 June 2022 - 5 nights - Minke Whales9-13 November 2022 - 4 nights - Coral SpawningSocial Media links:Scuba IQ websiteScuba IQ InstagramScuba IQ FacebookScuba IQ expeditions InstagramScuba IQ expeditions FacebookMartin on LinkedIn

Steve Crosby walks us through his journey to become a dive pro and what it has taken to stay connected to the dive industry particularly during the pandemic years. Many people have asked me how to get into and become successful in the dive industry.  Hard work and determination... Be like Steve.  He is a shining example of how to progress and focus on the goals one at a time without taking your eye off the prize and all whilst maintaining the right attitude, with a smile.  Steve is one of the nicest guys you would ever wish to meet and I have no doubt that anyone wishing to dive and/or learn from him will have an amazing time whilst doing so.  I'm a big fan of humility and Steve exudes this, just take a listen and you'll see what I mean. Should you wish to get in touch with Steve and arrange some dives you can connect with him through his website at Crosby DiveSteve's diving journey:2004 - He became a NAUI Open Water Diver - Instantly hooked on divingFun dives throughout Central America and the Caribbean.2008 - Completed NAUI Nitrox Course.2013 - Arrives in Koh Tao and realises diving is the industry for him2014 - Completed SSI Dive master and then OW Instructor training2014 - 2015 Teaching various SSI courses2015 - RAID Deco 50 course completed and became a RAID Instructor2016 - TDI Trimix course in Malaysia2016 - RAID Advanced Wreck Instructor 2016 - RAID Instructor TrainerBack to Malaysia to gain qualifications to become a Tech InstructorTioman, Malaysia - completed RAID Deco 40 and 50 Instructor programsTDI instructor course, enabling me to teach technical diving though TDI as well.2017 - Worked for Bali Dive Trek and became a Side-mount and DPV Diver and later received my DPV Instructor CertificationLate 2017 - Koh Tao for Sidemount Instructor and ADV Wreck Instructor Trainer2018 - Co-founded Unique Descent Dive Adventures (UDDA), with the goal of leading expeditions around the worldSept 2018 - Mexico to attain Full Cave Diver CertificationMar 2019 - Egypt to start working at Red Sea ExplorersOct 2019 - Mexico to complete Stage and Multi Stage Courses2020 Covid hit - re-organisation of life and objectivesDec 2021 - Mexico full time to engage in further training and qualifications.  Currently working as a cave and cavern guide having completed CCR Mod 1 and focussing on Cave Instructor qualifications. 

Dr Jen Matthews has pioneered the application of metabolomics to unravel the metabolic interactions underpinning coral health and resilience to environmental change.Increasing environmental pressures, such as increased sea temperatures, are causing the catastrophic loss of coral cover around the globe, including the largest coral reef ecosystem in the world: the Great Barrier Reef. So, it’s unsurprising we are starting to see corals migrate poleward to cooler waters. In fact, Sydney has recently become home to a new subtropical coral. This raises a significant question: Could Sydney be a refuge for corals from the warming GBR? A Human Frontier Science Programme Fellow at the University of Technology Sydney, Jen holds a PhD in Marine Biology (Dean’s list, Victoria University Wellington), a MRes (Imperial College London) and a BSc (Honours, Bath University). Jen is dedicated to finding solutions to current environmental challenges, targeting local (e.g. tropicalization of coastal NSW), national (e.g. Great Barrier Reef restoration), and global topics (e.g. microplastic pollution).Her contributions are internationally recognised, being invited to join the prestigious Coral Bleaching Research Coordination Network, and the International Metabolomics Society Early-Career Members Network. In 2009, she founded ‘Big Blue Conservation’, a not-for-profit organisation protecting and restoring beautiful reef ecosystems in Thailand. Her industry engagement while developing the innovative microplastics removal tool, funded by Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation Seed Innovation Grant, has shown her to be an emerging STEMprenuer. Despite her early-career stage, Jen has secured $300,000 in competitive funding, produced 14 publications and actively advocates for effective science communication and women-in-STEM, through programs such as SoapboxScience Sydney 2019-2020.