SCUBAHUB
Getting WET in support of science
BSAC DIVER ANDY CLARK IS PLANNING A major set of expeditions starting on 18 June , covering the western coast of the UK in support of conservation projects and marine biology .
The concept of the Western Ecology Tour is to promote scientific diving by supporting scientists in the field , telling unseen stories and promoting sustainable adventure .
“ With staycation being a buzzword of these times , we want to demonstrate how adventurous diving can be carried out on a reasonable budget ,” said Andy , whose background was in military sub-aqua clubs . “ We will be diving some of the lesser visited shore dives of the UK in a minimalist way , camping and cooking out of the back of our cars and vans .”
The project covers a 700-mile route from Scottish sea lochs to the tip of west Wales . Along the way , work will be carried out in support of research on sharks and skates , for Project Seagrass and also for Neptune ’ s Army of Rubbish Cleaners .
“ Planning expeditions has become a passion of mine , almost as much as diving itself ,” said Wigan-based Andy , who also runs his own diving podcast , Fancy a Brew . “ After a year of engaging with so few people face-to-face , this is an opportunity to assemble a group of likeminded people , publicise three worthy conservation projects and show the diving the UK has to offer .
Places are still available on the expedition , which is accepting divers from multiple agencies and already has a compliment of BSAC members involved . While the exped is a non-profit endeavour , participants will be expected to cover their costs . At the same time , Andy is seeking sponsorship to minimise costs , and sponsors are equally welcome to get involved .
Splash-in with Torbay
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Winning image by last year ’ s Popular Vote winner – Simon Temple
TORBAY BSAC ’ S POPULAR SPLASH-IN photography competition will return this August for its fifth year .
Despite a challenging year of lockdowns and diving restrictions , the club has organised the one-day photography competition for 14 August around the coastline close to its base at the Royal Torbay Yacht Club . With renowned underwater photographer Peter Rowlands once again taking on the role of judge , there will be four categories – wide angle , macro / close up , compact camera and beginners . There will also be an overall Popular Vote winner to be chosen at an awards dinner to be held in the evening ( subject to any restrictions in place at the time ).
There will be cash prizes for first and second placed entries in each group , plus a trophy for each winner .