Happy #manta #monday one of the best #dives I have had in 2023. The little cheeky #leopard #shark gets herself into this #beautiful frame with the #mantarays #australia


Vernon Reid from living color always sends a #mysterybox full of effects for the #julianrockmemorial each year. This box is his offering this year.


@scaprodossi with his newfriend who I understand was a very polite & professional model????


Still can't get over how good the conditions were at Julian Rocks that other day. Thank you @mark_bradtke_underwater for this epic shot @sundivebyronbay


11 months ago feels like a distant memory and yet not so long ago since I last jumped on board my good friend @scottwilsonimagery???s boat one morning for a dive at the rocks, when on the way back to the ramp Scott says: ???I???m going back out for another run- you can come join me if you want??Â. And how could I not when swimming with these gorgeous leopards were in our backyard? It was this last period of my life in Byron where I found myself in the water every single day diving and never wanted to take it for granted. So excited is an understatement about coming back home in a few months with loads to look forward to : @val_oz_onebreath ?: @scottwilsonimagery


Lily of the valley vine- sometimes considered a pesky weed, however I???m enjoying its luscious colour and shapes in the Cape Byron Marine Park at Lennox Head.


Some divine light over Nguthungulli. ?


sup guys! Massive massive thank you to @craigparryphotography for another superb photograph captured in #Byronbay #Julianrock put your head below the water and you will be amazed what you'll find. Thanks again dude!


The whale season has sadly ended and these are the best 2022 memories from @byronbaydivecentre! Big thanks to our skipper @_mattlucas_ and all the winter crew! . Photo 5 by @_mattlucas_ , parts of the video by @cal.faubel3 and @_mattlucas_ .


Dawn patrol with Julian rock in the background storm mode #


After seeing my first Manta Rays at Lady Elliot Island in 2019, I became eager to repeat the experience closer to home. It???s always fantastic heading away on a dive trip & ticking off a manta ray encounter but I knew seeing one offshore from Byron Bay or Gold Coast would hold a whole different meaning. In Summer 2022 & 2023 we were spoilt with a large number of days at Julian Rocks offshore from Byron Bay with the Mantas, the interactions where worth the years of anticipation & holding out for the moment to come into fruition. As we fast approach that time of the year again, I am getting really excited to see what we are in for this coming Manta Ray season


Gotta catch 'em all


....Zebra sharks out of Julian rock....When you wish you didn't forget the flash...


I got this surprise in the mail! A friend of mine???s aunt is a very talented artist who paints rocks! I have a treasured rock on my coffee table with my dogs but it didn???t have Bliss Cloud or Epic on it as they came after the rock. So now I have these two beautiful rocks for my coffee table


Back with those babies at the rock @byronbaydivecentre


Take a deep breath & find your calm.


A post tour debrief with Dougy! We have been spoilt with beautiful conditions over the last few days


Had a fun wknd at the #byronbayanzacclassic cheers boysa @blownindustries @puff_84 @joel_tilley @scottychannon @mur2fro  #julianrock


Explore Byron Bay by Kayak! Tours every day


Let's stay into the black mood for this black friday weekend with this beautiful Leopard (or zebra) shark from Julian Rocks. In a couple of months it will be the best season to go and see them near Byron Bay in Australia. My favourite shark ever Available as a print in my online store (and the black friday deal is still ON so enjoy 15% off!)


Sunrise dive and a channel filled with rays . @aquatech_imagingsolutions


Today???s hot Air Balloon ride didn???t go very far .. Just floated over Julian Rock & back to Tyagarah .. very beautiful


Local Beauty


Still haven't figured out how to sneak up on these guys (any tips appreciated!), but this spotted eagle ray was particularly chilled. It's amazing how they can go from so slow and calm in the water to speeding off in a single flap of their wings if they feel threatened . Onboard @wildbyronseasafaris


turtle me | Byron Bay | AUS:2015APR25


No words enjoy the view ! Diving with sharks is ??? complete the sentence in comments Personally I loved it , I bit scary but after few seconds you forget about it and enjoy. I do have so much respect for every single marine species and when you get down there just need to breathe and enjoy the show. Highly recommended Credits to @emiliorosso_ thank you, this is amazing


When your local break is Wategos and the local photographer is @william_davila_surf ??


Two months underwater. Buoyancy still shit, photography getting better (maybe)


Byron Bay, Australia ???


Excited to start diving with these beautiful sharks again Was lucky enough to see some off North Stradbroke Island the other weekend and won't be long til we see them here Who's keen for Leopard Shark season ?


Wobbegong sharks in Jillian Rock at Byron Bay, New South Wales


Explore the Bay with us!


Hanging with an old wise Critically Endangered hawksbill turtle at #nguthungulli - I wonder what he or she thinking? Awesome moment with @outoftheblueadventures


During the colder months, Julian Rocks off Byron Bay is host to an aggregation of grey nurse sharks. The grey nurse shark is a widespread shark found in temperate and tropical waters around the world. The East Australian sharks are considered to be genetically distinct from other populations and are classified as a subpopulation. Unfortunately, this subpopulation was subjected to heavy hunting from commercial and recreational fisheries in the 1960s and, they have never recovered. There is estimated to be less than 1000 individuals. It has been afforded species-specific protection in NSW since 1984, but threats such as bycatch still exist. The East Coast subpopulation (not the species) are classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. However, the last assessment was done in 2003, so there is hope that the situation may have changed for the better when the next evaluation is done. Photo by @davidp.robinson


Harmony'. . I'm taking a break from Instagram for a while after my @seafrogs.com.hk housing failed on Sunday and flooded my camera.


JULIAN ROCKS NGUTHUNGULLI NATURE RESERVE | BYRON BAY


Taken from the air courtesy of @sharnewolff, showing the extent of the runoff from flooding. This should go for a week more at least.


Grace''


Effortless'


On days like these, it???s easy to see why the Arakwal people call Nguthungulli the Creator of Everything. Nguthungulli created all life on land and in the sea, and is said to rest in a cave at the Rocks. It???s be a while since I???ve been out, but the wait was worth every second Thank you, @wildbyronseasafaris


An adventure a day keeps the FOMO away... and here???s today???s adventurers on our daily nature tour doing just that! Go team!


Today in the Bay


Blue Waters


Making the most of these conditions while we can 20+m visibility today! Thanks @matthew.john.dillon for the photo


About my last dive Diving with sharks


Great diving this weekend! The water has cleared up and we had sharks galore!


Amazing Conditions for our tours today and tomorrow!!! .


Family adventures immersed in nature while trying something new


Calling all divers, snorkelers, beach walkers, surfers, swimmers, bird lovers, fishers, paddlers and rock pool enthusiasts from Brunswick Heads to Ballina! Join our Marine Bioblitz of the Byron Bay Region between 8th -17th March 2024 and help us discover and document the diversity of marine and coastal species that call it home! We will kick off the Bioblitz with a launch and information evening on 7th March at Common People, Bangalow from 6-8:30pm. https://events.humanitix.com/marine-bioblitz-byron-bay-region The Marine Bioblitz is an opportunity for all members of the community to get involved as citizen scientists and document the rich biodiversity in our marine and coastal habitats. This ten-day community driven survey of marine life along our coastal waterways will generate a valuable record of our local biodiversity within the Byron Bay Hope Spot. Observations will provide a snapshot of species found across marine habitats at this time of year, which has never been done in our area before. It???s super easy to participate! Just register on our Humanitix event page, snap a photo within the region from March 8 - 17th, and upload it to iNaturalist. You can join in one of the many organised events over the 10-days or simply make your own observations and record them onto our iNaturalist project. To Register head here - https://events.humanitix.com/marine-bioblitz-byron-bay-region This is the first initiative for our brand new Byron Bay Hope Spot Ocean Champtions program supported by a grant from Patagonia???a 1% for the Planet program.


@sonyalpha.anz @sonyalpha @sonyalphagallery @lightroom @australiangeographic @wildbyronseasafaris @seafrogs.com.hk


Beautiful Wategos Beach ???


Julian Rocks, at dawn


Freediving and feeling the calmness of a Leopard Shark last year at the amazing Julian Rocks Byron Bay
@sundivebyronbay


Flat out like a lizard on a log! You don???t have to be an Olympic rower to come on our tours - there is plenty of time where we stop, relax and soak it all in!


New life skillz for 2023.. Learn to FREEDIVE with us in beautiful Byron Bay! Dive deep with relaxed breath hold techniques, body awarness & a playful curious mind to what you will discover beneath the surface. Bookings contact Domi @apnea_art @wildbyronseasafaris


Amazing kayaking conditions in Byron Bay today!! Come and join us on our 1:30pm tour .


Floating above the sand


Honeycomb guard crab Scientific name: Trapezia septata Olympus tg-6


One of the few photos of a grey nurse that turned out from Sundays dive at #julianrock // regram from a photo by @dmac888


Only one more week until we're back dreaming of blue blue ocean as far as you can see


It???s been a hot minute since our last post! Sorry bout it! With school holidays and some serious beach erosion, our hands have been a bit full! But we???re back baby! Expect to see some more top quality content on your screens straight from the ever beautiful beaches of Byron Bay and the legends of Cape Byron Kayaks! This #art shot taken by our mystical guru guide Mikey a few weeks ago! @mikeytaaaam .


This Clown Fish and it???s Anemone is adaptation at its best


Julian Rocks. Some moments on the beach in Byron looking towards the Julian Rocks Nguthungulli nature reserve.


Leopard Blue


So many new things today out at #julianrocks with @wildbyronseasafaris. New @sonyalpha a7iv and @seafrogs.com.hk housing, new custom @sommerso_fins and of course, new freediving mates! Plus the leopards wanted to play too .


Tallow Beach & Arakwal National Park from Cape Byron, New South Wales


Byron Bay Blues


Cape Byron, New South Wales


Have a look at this! Our morning tour just got checked out by this gorgeous gal!


Sale day is TOMORROW 8am NSW time!

Checkout www.artforfloods.com for all the gorgeous available art from 400+ artists  ???choose your piece and contact the artist directly to purchase. See FAQ???s @artforbales if unsure of the process.

I will be donating 100% of the proceeds from the sale of my piece to @givit_aus split 50|50 between Qld & NSW, as I was born in Gympie and holiday regularly in Northern NSW so both of these flood affected areas are close to my heart ??

 the piece I am donating??????Afternoon Delight??? 1/25 (pic is of the actual print) ???a real wow moment of a pink sunset at the beach in Byron Bay

To purchase this piece, go to www.dinahdixon.com 8am (7am Qld) tomorrow

? I will also provide Free Shipping Australia wide

Let???s dig deep & show our support for the beautiful people of South-East Qld & Northern NSW


Ready for My Close Up Happy Turtle Thursday from Byron Bay


How can I describe todays dive at Julian Rocks in three words? SHARKS ARE EVERYWHERE!


Here???s Doug! Doug is one of our most experienced wildlife guides. There???s not much that he doesn???t know about dolphins .All of our guides are qualified, experienced and passionate about what they do.


Sore shoulders? No worries! Jump in and kick for an instant eco-friendly motor! Also good for those extra lockdown kgs .


Star-crossed lovers

Romeo + Juliet, have found refuge for  some lover time here at Julian rocks during the summer months. ????


I think this was the moment before my heart exploded with gratitude to the Divine and the artistry painted across the evening sky!!


Beautiful Spotted Eagle Ray at Julian rocks. Sadly they are becoming endangered just like lots of our amazing sea life, mainly due to being fished in Southeast Asia and Africa, the most common market being in commercial trade and aquariums, and different types of fishing bycatches and nets. Luckily here on the east coast they are protected. They still have to face their predators and plastic on top of that. They are normally quite shy and stick to the bottom, but have several venomous barbed stingers tucked behind their Pelvic Fins on their tail. They are known for jumping out of the water several meters in the air and are mistaken for Manta Rays a lot. - - - - - @byronbaydivecentre


Surrounded by sandpaper figs and a view like this, what???s not to luv about my new abode


Manta Saturday Sharing it with a fun and ocean loving crew. You should have seen the smiles on our faces


#WildlifeWednesday  Cruising past #humpday with some watery friends in Byron Bay.

Julian Rocks, Byron Bay NSW, by Wandy Brouwer & Tim Hochgrebe

Link in bio

#visitbigvolcano #nguthungulli #julianrocks #aquaticreserve #northernrivers #farnorthcoast #winterwonderland #ozstyle

#Repost @byronbaydivecentre
??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ???
Julian Rocks Nguthungulli Nature Reserve

Diving in Winter ?
#greynurseshark #julianrocks #byronbaydivecentre #supportlocal #capebyronmarinepark #shark #scubadiving #underwaterphotography #iwilltravelagain #realdiving #divessi #lovensw #visitnsw #australia #seeaustralia #divebyronbay #greynursesharks #sharks

Shared via @bigvolcano on Instagram


We live, work, play and minister on the lands and waterways of the Arakwal people of the Bundjalung nation and pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging. We thank God for the way they have cared for this beautiful part of God's good creation since time immemorial. #byronbay #bangalow #cavanbah #walgun #nguthungulli #unitingchurch #bundjalung


Byron Bay you beauty!!


Cracker of a day yesterday! We love our resident pod, and we think maybe sometimes they love us back!


Glorious day and views of Nguthungulli!


My own private beach entrance Walking the sandy path through the bush is always a sweat pleasure. Then stepping over the threshold to see the ocean take over the horizon, waving at me, with white bubble art texturing the rippling shades of aqua; it's a uniquely refreshing joy to behold


CLOWN FISH


It was fascinating to see leopard sharks close!! Look at the unique tail. I am going again ?


Nguthungulli never ceases to amaze me.. this little Hawksbill Turtle looked like he???d just come from the salon, shell all shiny and new but the colours and vibrancy of the patterns sure stood out against the brown rocks and corals.


Lovely Leopard Shark, 1 of about 20 at Julian Rocks today. @joshblankphotography @naomixhughes So many great people out there today, thanks to @byronbaydivecentre for the amazing trip.


We had one pearler of a tour this morning! The Dolphins put on a spectacular show and the weather was absolute perfection. How???s your Monday goin?


One perfect day for market day


We like to take it easy out on the big blue, which means you don???t need to be a professional athlete to join us! We take all levels of experience because we cruise through the bay, just like our marine buddies! .


Family photo game: STRONG Take your profile pics to the next level like these legends and come out for a paddle around the Bay with us!


Sharks & Turts -A short video from our dive yesterday in Byron with @dylanslater83 & @sundivebyronbay


Is it just me or does this look like a Pokemon? 3mm long!


Repost @sundivebyronbay by @media.repost: Jewies in thwe coddie


Winter sunrise over the Bay.


On Porpoise


Action shot of us down at The Pass on a sunnier day! ?? ? ??? @liana.dudley ????


G R E Y S


Yes that is blue sky???and the sun???over Byron Bay!!


Little Fish :: Nguthengulli


Afternoon views across Byron Bay.


They told me "you can become whatever you want", so I randomly decided to become a DiveMaster. . Huge thx to my beloved crew, the craziest skipper, my personal instructor and fav dive buddy and all the people from the @byronbaydivecentre for these unforgettable 4 months. I already miss the ocean


? Check out @oceanum_photography for more beautiful underwater images ?


The sky may be a little cloudy, but we don???t mind. It???s always beautiful out on the water in our gorgeous Byron Bay! Come out with us and say g???day to our resident wildlife!


With respect to the ocean being the heart of our blue planet: We are often asked, 'How much protection is enough?' We can only answer with another question: How much of your heart is worth protecting? - Sylvia Earle


Far from my greatest dive of the day, but the only footage I got of the grey nurse sharks! I got down to 15.5m in this video, but I had problems with my right ear equalising on this dive, so didn't stay down too long. Managed to resolve my ear equalising issues later, and got down to 18.5 (without following a line down to the sea bed) and stayed under for a new personal best of 1:17. Great day out with @wildbyronseasafaris at Julian Rocks / Nguthunguli in Byron Bay. Trimmed but not edited video, if you listen carefully, you can hear the whales somewhere in the distance.


In harmony. When the ocean in the bay was nice and clear blue ???


Dolphin Day Dart


I really love a school of bulls eyes! #sundive, #julian_rocks, #Needles,


Yin & Yang When the light hits, you know you are in for something spectacular ?


Early morning reflections. Captured at Nguthungulli after paddling out on a perfectly glassy ocean as the sun sat low on the horizon, with @mollyymartinn back before the rain turned biblical. Looking forward to more days like this.


So majestic, always my favourite


Byron vibes


Candid photo of someone who is so ecstatic to have just snorkelled with a green turtle, a hawksbill turtle, manta ray, eagle ray, wobbegongs, leopard sharks and a variety of other beautiful marine life! Thank you so much @wildbyronseasafaris for an incredible experience. I loved every moment


Feels like I???ve been looking at grey skies for months (really not the case, there???s been some sunshine breaks!) so it was encouraging to see these happy neon tones! Love seeing my work in collector???s homes thank you @joeyjo2110 you sent me the pic just when I needed it Sold through @greenhouseinteriors


Rain or shine, we???re all about letting the good times roll! Nothing can dampen our smiles!


It was brushing my hair!


Sneaking by!


10 life lessons from a turtle:

?? follow your instinct
?? swim with the current
?? travel at your own pace
?? enjoy time alone
?? slow and steady wins the race
?? don???t give up hope
?? keep a hard shell
?? come up for air
?? never forget where you came from
?? spend more time on the beach

: @val_oz_onebreath
: on board with @scottwilsonimagery


If over 70 percent of our planet???s oxygen is produced by the ocean, then that???s all the air I need to breathe. : @val_oz_onebreath : On board with @scottwilsonimagery


Wishing for this beautiful sunshine in QLD today! A double dive in the big blue got me a little roasted today, but I couldn???t be happier in this moment Reposted from @naomixhughes On board with @scottwilsonimagery


Progress requires unlearning. Becoming the best version of yourself requires you to continuously edit your beliefs, and to upgrade and expand your identity. Because every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become. Progress is pushing boundaries to excel, it???s moving out of comfort zones, it???s releasing the old parts of yourself that used to hesitate to say or do things in fear of consequences. It???s being okay with accepting that life is not perfect, but it???s also trusting the process and knowing that you???ll always be okay, if not better. : @val_oz_onebreath : @scottwilsonimagery From happier times in the big blue pre-floods


I had grown up in close proximity to the ocean my entire life, so naturally I???ve always had a strong and close connection to it, always swimming, then surfing.. But when I started freediving I had no idea just how much my life would really change beneath the surface. Diving helped me breathe- my anxiety lessened with each breath hold and descent, and my overall health and quality of life improved. I found calm, peace and a newfound strength. My wonder for this world went deeper. I found another community, a family. I found an indescribable level of happiness and joy, and with all that I grew a new sense of insatiable thirst for life. It???s a privilege to experience first hand the moments that we share underwater with our ocean friends, and instead of taking nature for granted, we should be constantly reminded of its beauty and let these experiences be the driving force to do everything that we can in our power as a collective to protect it : @val_oz_onebreath : On board with @scottwilsonimagery


A double dive in the big blue got me a little roasted today, but I couldn???t be happier in this moment On board with @scottwilsonimagery


For the mems ? Thank you @laurags_photography and @wildbyronseasafaris 2.2.22


My first time diving with these amazing creatures and such gratitude to share their waters. Epic shot thanks to @tommyblackdog


Two #giantguitarfish (Rhynchobatus djiddensis) relaxing on the sandy bottom of #julianrocksmarinepark #byronbay #australia. They are commonly also known as #guitarshark or #shovelnosedray, get up to 3m long and belong to the family of the #rays. #scuba #predator #travel #nature #underwater #sharklove


The loggerheads at Julian Rocks, Byron Bay are always very excited to encounter divers...


Travel-experience related photography


I am so fortunate to have spent everyday for months cutting my teeth underwater at such an iconic dive site as this one. Australia???s ???Julian Rocks??Â more appropriately known as Nguthungulli is home to so many iconic marine life species, many of which change with the seasons. From the stunning leopard sharks and mantas in summer, to critically endangered grey nurse sharks in winter, this small ancient chunks of volcanic rock are incredibly special. Some of my best underwater memories with good friends were born here. I will be forever grateful for those who took me here, kayaked here with me, and all those who shared this incredible place with me. In Dreaming, Nguthungulli is sometimes explained as ???father of the world??Â who created all the land and the waters, the animals and plants, and now rests in a cave at Julian Rocks. It???s been a long time since I???ve seen blue water like this out there, but it???s always a highlight when I???m home.


A couple of students gettin' some hang time with ol' man turtle.


Turtely chilled out Friday out at the rocks before the Northerly came up and blew us home.


Got to ride the East Australian Current while out at Julian Rocks. Saw many sea friends too!


You had me at Blue @wildbyronseasafaris stunning day at the rocks


Nothing gets in the way of an old man and his food.


Lion in the codhole. There's always a couple of these hangin' out in there


Beautiful blue day down under. A lot more grey up above #


A Spotted Wobbegong draping itself over a rock, I love it's beard of fleshy tassels & variegated body pattern, makes for a brilliant ambush predator!


I acknowledge the Arakwal people of the Bundjalung nation as the traditional custodians of the land and waterways that I now find my home in. I received this beautiful card from my daughter from her NAIDOC week activities at school. For Our Elders???I pay my respect to elders past, present and those who are emerging. ??


@byronbaydivecentre Jaime and I were treated with this before anyone found us ?? too beautiful and extremely special being a shy turtle. Also @ballinabirdo I???m sure you???d love too I???m lucky to see many of Mother Nature???s creatures x


Conditions at the rock have been spectacular. I've been out of the water for a bit recently but yesterday's freediving session proved to be so rewarding. Beautiful vis, lots of turtles and rays, and some cruisy grey nurse sharks. Winter is here!


Quick stop in with the Leopard Sharks of Julian Rocks / Nguthungulli before a couple of exciting overseas trips!


Underbelly


Diving at the Cod Hole with #greynurse sharks. We were hanging in the deep up close and personal with these guys at 19mtrs below #julian_rocks. Such a buzz and believe it or not peaceful sharing their habitat. Wicked shot thanks to @tommyblackdog and @sundivebyronbay for the dive trip ??


Byron Bay, Julian Rocks, Time for some underwater photos. Most easterly point of mainland Australia. Julian rocks is one of the top dive spots on the east coast


Diving at Julian Rocks, Byron Bay 26/01/2022


HAPPY WORLD OCEANS DAY! Let's celebrate by keeping our oceans clean and free of litter ? Learn how you can help keep Byron clean and protect the environment by watching our NEW video! & Help us spread the message far and wide


#Repost from the very talented @blaze_parsons @download.ins --- Leopard shark flying by . . On board with @scottwilsonimagery last week


Spotted eagle ray overflying Nguthungulli


Are you needing a break from all of the information this week? Especially from me as I have been slamming you with grammar!! This post is just a sweet video carousel about collective nouns with a marine theme. When describing a collective noun of a group, the group must be written in singular.


Dude, come on in the water's fine.


it???s been a good wednesday ??? excited for many, many more ocean days like this over this summer ??


Eagle #sundive, #julian_rocks, #eagle_ray


When you head out on a trip with @wildbyronseasafaris you get to learn about Nguthungulli (Julian Rocks) Marine Reserve and its' history, formation and the creatures that call it home. The tour guides are very knowledgeable about the area and it's awesome to hear from people who are so passionate about this incredible marine reserve. Some of them also happen to be epic freedivers... definitely inspiring to watch when you're just starting out in the world of freediving like we are!


Jewies in thwe coddie


Wobbie flyby


Julian rocks. One of the most beautiful dive locations I have ever laid eyes on. The purity and power of this magical dive site has filled me with so much purpose and aspiration. For years I???ve dreamt of diving with Leopard Sharks and on the 6/1/24 it became a reality. The water was 27 degrees, the visibility was 30+ meters, marine life everywhere. Everything was just perfect. But the Leopard shark still had my most attention. The colours, the patterns??? everything about them just amazes me. Since my trip came to an end, I daily remind myself how lucky I am to have seen such beautiful life and destinations like Julian Rocks.


Got my good side


Up and Under. Sharks were so chilled out today.


Wide angle magic. In through the out door :-)


Smile! My love of these creatures is a little weird!


Looking on


Gotta love a cooperative lion fish


Love the detail! So many teeth. Very big crop.


??????Julianrock.. (??) ????????????????????????1????????????? ???? ????????????????


Duuuude!


Synchronised swimming for trumpets


Pregnant grey nurse


Eagle


Would you believe this was shot with a GoPro2 with a UR Pro filter. Now that the Grey Nurse are back at Julian Rocks I've just gotta get away from my work station and get out there for some more interaction with these magnificent creatures.. #


Tail kiss


Dude, come on in the water's fine.


Take off.... out of the Needles!


A spectacular shallow dive with grey nurse sharks at Julian Rocks. We don't often see them in extremely shallow water. This male swam past, then back towards me again and at 10 inches from my GoPro, shot off like a bullet. Awesome interaction.


Who needs Tahiti?


A GN in the CH!


We asked for warm blue water and Leopard Sharks for Christmas and Santa delivered! Happy divers today!!!!


Pretty little leopard shark. Such graceful and curious sharks. I can't believe how many aggregate here in Byron. They used to be a rare sighting for me and now I find myself surrounded by 10 or more at a time. Really magical.


Going down


Two week ends ago I went for my very first drift dive at Julian rocks and was the best dive I???ve had so far, the same dive as pictures from my last post. I took this shot when we were going through a little valley and where the current was really strong going up and over the rocks. While going over the rocks I saw this black and white shell, and I had never seen it before so I wanted to take a photo as a was taking it, I spooked a big fish which photo bombed my only shot of this thing. The current was far to strong to go back for another photo so I was a little bummed but it looks cooler to me anyway. If anyone knows what the shell is called please tell me in the comments!


An Anemonefish and two Domino Damselfish share the protection of a stunning Bubble-tip Anemone at Julian Rocks.


Will never get tired of being under the sea ?? #


Shot around 5 metres under at Byron Bay???s popular dive location, Julian Rocks. Just the right depth to still see the sun sparkle on the back of this peaceful creature.


Just a glimpse of Nguthungulli in black and white


Leopard or Zebra shark (Stegostoma tigrinum) another endangered species that aggregate during the summer months at Julian Rocks #nguthungulli Marine reserve. These graceful species can reach 3.5m and can be individually identified by the unique patterns of spots. Their seasonal movement can be over 1000km and many return to the same sites each year. Fishing activities remain the biggest threat to these species.


This is the third image that got selected as finalist of the Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year 2022, this time in the Monochrome category. I don t often do black and white but I loved the harmony of the graceful curves of the swimming leopard shark and the ridges of the sand trench. A very quintessentially Julian Rocks photo.


Face to face.


Come join our molchanovs freediving courses! No experience needed. If you want to become a freediver, get coaching, improve your spearfishing, or just generally feel more relaxed in your day to day life. Message now! Our freedive courses aim for you to be able to hold your breath longer, feel more comfortable/connect with the ocean and to also dive deeper. We focus on being safe, techniques on relaxation/visualisation, body awareness, equalisation and how to feel great on every breathhold. Pool sessions, theory and ocean dives will get you to the next level :) Join now.


Beautiful


Hey psst! It is #sharkweek !


We never get sick of this backdrop


Floating around out here with this cute brave lil mermaid ??? She didn???t want to put her face in the water, but we had such a beautiful time bouncing around ( decent swell & currents that day !) on Nature???s Big Blue Trampoline . And I LOVED helping her feel safe & enjoy the water with @wildbyronseasafaris


A little manta magic with @glegmo and @wildbyronseasafaris at #nguthungulli , a very special place in the big blue


Another shot from Thursday???s trip to the rock


#julianrocks in the back. Home of     and many varieties of fish. Such a lovely outlook from Wategos


Byron Bay, you've stolen my heart twice It feels like coming home to come back to you


Wonderful visit today from diving icon Bill Silvester who popped in to sign copies of his new book ??? Down Under Byron. This book is a fascinating read of the experiences of Bill???s diving life and the pioneering contribution he has made to the industry of Scuba Diving and reef conservation from starting Byron???s first diving school in the ???70s; leading the establishment of the Julian Rocks Aquatic Reserve to training Duntroon Office Cadets and filming worldwide the oceans underwater life. An Author Event at Miles&Henry with Bill Silvester will be announced very soon. Stay tuned for details.


A quick safety briefing with our guides before departing


I think I do a good job at maintaining neutral buoyancy ???


The first time I heard @bunyarradubay speak I fell a little in love???today that grew as I took part in one of her @explore_byronbay walking tours at Cape Byron. For me this was a sacred time of hearing stories and learning about Arakwal country in a powerful way. Delta???s humility and passion for sharing her culture and knowledge is inspiring and she truly epitomises seeking ways to walk together into the future. If you are ever in Byron Bay this is a must! Thank you @bunyarradubay???you are Deadly???and sorry it took me so long to join you!


Turtle magic at Julian Rocks #nguthungulli ???


How many wobbegong sharks u can see?


???Do you ever get close to whales???Â ... yeah pretty close sometimes! We will never approach these wild animals of course; sometimes they get curious and want to get a closer look at us!


After two weeks of life on land, starting to miss all these cuties underwater


??? P E R F E C T ??? Sunsets daily.


Semplicity


Restless


Rainbow Sea Turtle. . . . . On-board with @scottwilsonimagery


Kayak Surfing: guaranteed good times!


Do love getting tanked


This has to be the worse summer on record for diving conditions. We have had well over 20 dives cancelled since the start of the year. With winter only a few weeks out hopefully that will all change. Cant wait to get out to the blue planet again. Bring on a winter full of diving to make up for the unfortunate summer. The human race is to complicated for me and i much prefer my underwater friends lol. This beautiful Blue Grouper was encountered off Julian rocks Byron Bay.


Julian Rocks - home to some of the world's most endangered species including sharks, rays, whales, wobbegongs, turtles and more.


Our latest patient was rescued earlier this week from Byron Bay. This green sea turtle now named Zeke looks almost dead in the first photo. It is still early days for this beauty, however you can already see an improvement just after three days of being in care. Zeke was covered in marine leeches and was quite septic underneath. We got rid of the leeches with a freshwater bath and have started him on a course of antibiotics. Thank you to all that were involved in rescuing this poor animal. Thanks for the picture @marcsbaywatch. Marc walks this beach frequently and is often the first one on the scene.


Julian rocks is one of the best dive sites on the entire East coast of Australia. Its unique as it has the warmer tropical waters meeting the cooler southern waters. This creates an absolute haven for a diverse range of marine species. Unfortunately due to cancellations we haven???t been able to make it down there in ages. Hopefully the weather turns around and we can get to this amazing site again soon!!This is a video from our last time down there. Im sure you will see its beauty and why divers from all over the world come to this site.


Not long now till these spotted beauties start showing up at Julian Rocks again! Taken onboard @wildbyronseasafaris


Summer's here!!


Always love a Turtle encounter, this little guy was enjoying his Saturday swim Turtles are great to practice your photography on because they usually dont mind you getting up close and move quite slowly.


Patiently waiting for summer to dive with these beauties again Taken on board @bluebaydivers


???Moby??? @sundivebyronbay is off to snorkel / dive JULIAN ROCKS or as locals refer to it as ??? Nguthungulli??Â Nature reserve. . . . . . . Fun fact: Just 2.5 Kilometres off Byron Bay???s Main beach, lies a rock formation known locally as ???Nguthungulli???. Also known as Julian Rocks Nature Reserve, this rocky outcrop is rated one of the best diving spots in Australia.


No Dolphins - No dramas! If you don???t get to see any whales or dolphins when you come out with us, our wildlife guarantee kicks in and you can come back again any time for free!* We also still make any tour a whole lotta fun, as you can see here . . * 24hr cancellation policy still applies


Some days have a really special symmetry about them, and things look, balanced. You could almost spot a little plop of Seagull poo on Julian Rocks!


Byron walks


My forever valentine chillin in our favourite place with our favourite shark ? @sundivebyronbay


The ocean???s stories ? Whilst under the water I could hear the sounds between the whales as they start their migration back down south, here on the east coast of Australia. Waves above our heads and a number of green turtles in this area, makes the magic of capturing underwater moments just so special. Research is now showing the sounds of whales are directly linked to the weather patterns between El Ni??o and La Ni??a, and how climate change is having a big impact on these ocean giants. As oceans warm, the availability of food sources such as krill may decline.


Did you know that the Leopard Shark (or Zebra Shark depending on which part of the world you live in) Is unagressive when approached underwater and is considered to be harmless?


Something fiersome lurking in the waters... Although they may not look it, the GNS are very docile creatures. It's a pleasure to share their waters with them


Here you can clearly see how the wobbegong shark is the master of camouflage. For the smaller shark species it is important for them to be able to blend in with their environment to avoid predators. The wobbegong is probably the most common shark species you will see on the East coast of Australia. They are literally hundreds calling Julian rocks home.


Huntmaster Diving Products Australian made and designed In-store or visit our website Check out our new location in the Byron Industrial Estate on the corner of Tasman and Centennial. We look forward to seeing you soon


Looking north from Cape Byron - The most Easterly point of Australia - Northern NSW Australia June 2023


Cape Byron Light - Australia???s most powerful lighthouse


Julian Rocks is world famous for its marine life. Warm and cold water currents meet here resulting in a spectacular mix of tropical and cold water fish @sundivebyronbay you can take a quick boat ride from shore, return back to the shop, meet up with the mates or family and have lunch or have a quick surf between dives giving divers more flexibility. Sun Dive Byron Bay are trained to look after all levels of divers from fresh out of your Open Water Course to a Master Instructor. They send 6 divers or less with each guide to make sure you see more marine life and less bubbles. Make sure you book early for early departure and to ensure you don???t miss out on this experience.


Grey Nurse shark and a school of fish at Julian Rocks, Byron Bay


L E O P A R D With Tassie in the grip of winter, it is always nice to head north to enjoy some warmer water. I can not wait to visit my favourite Australian mainland dive site again shortly! While these guys, the Leopard Sharks, will have headed up the coast, Julian rocks should be teeming with Grey Nurse and Sand Tiger Sharks. At this time of the year, it is also common to hear singing Humpback Whales while diving too. Can't wait! Leopard Shark, Julian Rocks, Byron Bay, NSW.


Grey Nurse shark season at Nguthungulli (Julian Rocks), first time with these beautiful creatures in the big blue. Many more times to come I hope! . : @liang.dennis captured these on the same dive but with much better equipment


Very colourful Common Lion fish from last week. - - - - - @byronbaydivecentre


Sun???s out, boats are out! Have a turtley awesome Sunday ? ??? @clay10harris ????


Sharks & Turts -A few pics from our dive yesterday in Byron with @dylanslater83 & @sundivebyronbay


Dreamy Sunday I absolutely loved watching the sun-rays in the water with the leopard shark in front.


One of the most overlooked animals when we go diving is the fish! There are some extremely beautiful fish out there and it would take an eternity to learn them all This guy was so pretty with his patterns and purple colours. Diving with @bluebaydivers Dive buddy @a.slonchak_photography @venom_wildlife_adventures using the #canong7xmarkii and #fantasea_line housing.


Byron Dive with @dylanslater83 yesterday


W I N T E R R I S E


Such beauty at dusk!


Spotted eagle ray I get so excited every time they fly past they really do fly like a bird under water @toriemathew


Grey Nurse Shark Photograph by Brian Pool Grey nurse are critically endangered on Australia???s east coast, so we always treasure seeing them.


This guy doesn???t seem too impressed with the return of blue water, but we sure are! Visibility is improving every day, with more blue water making its way in! Book a snorkel or dive tour with us, and come see what Julian Rocks has to offer Book online (link in bio), or give us a call on +61 2 66858333 to secure a spot!


So pretty at #thepassbyronbay last night. Love the patterns in the sand! Love the cloud banks!!


GNS having a scratch @sundivebyronbay


Amazing conditions the past few day???s with beautiful clear water + heaps of marine life! Plus, the water is warmer than the surface so there???s no excuse! Dive + snorkel tours are running daily so dive in online or call us to book your spots ? Another beautiful image from @scuba_kez_photography ?


Want to try a catch a glimpse of these guys before they leave? Book a snorkel or dive tour this weekend! Availability at 8am and 11am, Saturday and Sunday! Call us on +61 2 66858333 OR head to our website www.byronbaydivecentre.com.au to secure a spot! Another epic shot from @ashlymcmahonphotography


A shot from Julian Rocks several weeks back. Missing this site greatly and can't wait to get back down when the borders open @sundivebyronbay


Winter friends @sundivebyronbay


Dive guide checking on his group @sundivebyronbay


Experience The Extraordinary...


Katie & turtle - winning combo @sundivebyronbay


One of the many epic encounters diving with @sundivebyronbay this weekend


Perfect fit for a wobbegong!? ??? @scuba_kez_photography ????


Grey nurse crusining the Needles- same photo, better edit Awesome to see the first GNS of the season, especially kicking around with leopards @sundivebyronbay #julianrocksbyronbay


Byron Bay absolutely sparkling today in the late morning sun ?? with some pretty spectacular clouds ?? adding their own beauty to an already sensational location


???God???s Artwork??? Love the simplicity of this pic.


Chasing Light'


Coming up for air @sundivebyronbay


Happy place @sundivebyronbay


Leopard landing @sundivebyronbay


If you look really closely you can see an egg in instructor Georgie???s hand... What eggxactly () is going on I hear you ask? Well they???re on a DEEP DIVE + you can do one too on our next ADVANCED COURSE July 6th - 8th You???ll find all the details online + we promise you???ll have an? eggcellent time ? ??? @raquelbota ????


It???s pretty cool to look up to the surface when you???re diving + notice how deep you actually are... Even better when you see a beautiful eagle ray gliding above you ? ??? @hammo20 ????


Camera shy


Tailslide


Cruisin???


Brighten my life. Janolus Nudibranchs Julian Rocks. Cod Hole. Photograph Brian Poo


Today was all about the turtles @sundivebyronbay


We choose to refuel after our paddles with the almighty Aussie Tim-Tam - king of biscuits! As if meeting the local wildlife wasn???t a good enough reason to come out for a paddle, we always include all-you-can-eat tim-tams at smoko for every guest


Shore dives, river dives, quarry dives, boat dives... We love it all! We have Open Water courses, Freediving courses + our next Advanced course is July 6th-8th Call us or book online to lock in your course dates.. We can???t wait to meet you ?


Look at this chiller. Just floating around munching on a piece of jellyfish like it???s no big deal, while the swell batters Nguthungulli a few meters away. Cool as a sea cucumber.


Great time diving Julian rocks today off Byron bay. The visibility was a bit shit due to the current floods but there was plenty of life around including this beautiful leopard shark check . Follow my adventures: @kris_kross88 . Check out the video on @kris_kross88_vids & follow for all video content.


Buoy shots with @sarah.mudge @trudive_australia @penetratorfins


Swimming with Sea Turtles Julian Rocks Byron Bay @sundivebyronbay


And the big waves have started rolling in to the Bay!


Diving in Winter ?


Toms first dive today! Let down by his videographer, but not by Julian Rocks. 3 Sharks 2 Rays and a lot more marine life!


Shout out to @oceanum_photography for her beaut underwater photos! ?


Smiiiiile


The Pass (+ us!) ? ??? @zak.franklin ...Check him out ????


Nguthungulli Flight


Swimming along the most elegant and beautiful animal. So blessed to be here again


Usually when you tell people you dive, the most common response is an admittance for the fear of sharks. I have dived with heaps of sharks and have never been even close to attack. Meanwhile, I have been attacked, harassed, told off and photobombed by these lil guys, the Sargent Major, my forever nemesis. @rpottsy28 @scaprodossi


Rainy days in Byron ??? ???


?????? Ichi-go Ichi-e ???Treasure every encounter, for it will never recur??Â : @laurags_photography


Julian Rocks - an experience like no other


Nguthunglli , father of the world ???. has been quite a while , you brought me back my peace , a fabulous dive , with two just amazing dive crew , what a fun dive it were , loggerheads , green , turtles , rays , cleaner shrimps , cod, blue groupers and soo much more , this dive site really is one of the best ! Thankyou Pez !


New beachscape finished! Inspired by the beautiful Nguthungulli/Julan Rocks, lazy days on the beach dreaming of all the treasures the ocean holds SOLD// ???Her Treasures??? comes framed in lovely Australian oak and will be available online soon @greenhouseinteriors


Diving in one of the most diverse spots in Australia. A natural reserve and also sacred place for aboriginal people. According to Arakwal people, 7000 years ago ceremonies used to be done by foot as the ocean level was low. Heaps of love and thanks for Jen for cheering me up all the time and hope we dive together someday again! Now you guys can say I'm crazy for diving between sharks (although nurse gray and wobbegong sharks are not aggressive)


#projectmanta #manta #julianrocksmarinereserve These guys are such giants but so gentle and amazingly agile. You could hang with them all day, and sometimes it seems like they agree. @sealifecameras @maresjustaddwater


?Look how much fun our crew had this morning on their deep dive! 15m visibility, leopard sharks AND grey nurses, turtles, rays + of course heaps of fish! They even stopped for a whale breach on their way back to The Pass We can???t wait wait to see you this weekend Give us a call if you haven???t booked your spot yet + we???ll get it locked in! ? ??? @raquelbota ????


Grey Nurse Shark Photograph by Brian Pool Nguthungulli, Julian Rocks Marine Reserve These docile sharks loiter about in the sandy gutters of Julian Rocks & although they look ferocious with their mouths slightly opened and their teeth sticking out, its a real privilege to dive with them. Just love the entourage of little fish that often accompany them.


Storm clouds rolling across Nguthungulli.


Crazy day packed full of nurses before they leave us. Can you ever have too many sharks around you? @byronbaydivecentre @shaylee_tm @thisismeags @insta_mike_g


The biomass of fish at #julianrocksbyronbay #marinereserve is pretty impressive, can anyone names these guys?


Happy smiling leopard shark dancing in the water column ???: @sarah.mudge : @trudive_australia ??: @wildbyronseasafaris


A land of Indigenous ritual 7,000 years ago, Nguthungulli Nature Reserve (Julian Rocks) is an unforgettable dive and snorkelling spot teeming with fish, turtles, wobbegongs and more.


"I can't be bothered shooting leopard sharks anymore" "I need to shoot something different" "something more interesting" "I've done leopard sharks to death" These are the thoughts of a stupid photographer, one who's blaming their subject for their lack of satisfaction or outcome. I know because these where my exact thoughts, it's now been two years since i've been with the amazing sharks I'm looking back on how much I took them for granted and I'm shaking my head... Gratitude is a daily practice, one I want to improve.


Stop what you???re doing + look at that face ? ??? @submerged_images ????


Last rays of sunlight over the bay.


? Those mooring lines won???t be empty for much longer... We are ON Boats back out to JULIAN ROCKS next weekend! We???re almost fully booked so get in quick! Social distancing still applies so there are limited spots available on our vessels... We will be running tours at weekends (8am + 1pm) to begin with for divers + snorkelers + we can also run private tours by request for households + families whenever suits you, so give us a call or drop us an email if you???ve missed Julian Rocks as much as us! We can???t wait to get you back in the water ? ??? @lewwwys ????


The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever. Of all the wildlife I saw today, it was the jellyfish that had me mesmerised. Drifting softly against the surface with their glowing tentacles.. As endless as the ocean, as timeless as the tides. Sometimes in life it???s the smaller things that are full of wonder, and it???s these smaller things that remind us of the simplicity of just being. I have so much to thank the ocean for, she has been my greatest teacher in life


15-20m vis ?? Heaps of marine life ?? Beautiful day of tours out to JR ?? We have live availability on our website for tours next weekend so you can book online.. We have limited spaces though so don???t leave it too late ? We can???t wait to see you tomorrow Thanks for the pano shot @seapics.davebryant ???


Grey Nurse Shark Nguthungulli, Julian Rocks, Byron Bay Photograph by Brian Pool It's mesmerising to watch these beautiful sharks during their winter aggregation at Byron Bay.


UPDATE : We have had to postpone taking out our boats this weekend New regulations + restrictions have come into place meaning tours out to Julian Rocks this weekend are no longer possible.. We???re gutted too Make sure you???re following us so you can be the first to know when we can get our boats out again! Stay safe + thank you for your support + patience during this crazy time ? ??? ? @zoea.imagery ??? ?


#latergram from an amazing experience with @bunyarradubay Arakwal Bumberbin Bundjalung proud woman #deltakay Such an amazing opportunity to learn the first people???s customs , etiquette and stories from a proud Arakwal custodian. Reflecting in this time of #naidocweek and #healcountry2021


Byron Bay


Today I ticked another thing off my bucket list-I was able to snorkel with turtles off Julian Rocks, Byron Bay with @sbarnett86


Julian Rocks Marine Sanctuary is rated as one of the best dive sites in Australia. "Nguthungulli" the local Arakwal name for this incredible place, offers protected safe and shallow waters perfect for snorkelling and freediving. Sitting off the most easterly point of Australia, Julian rocks is a convergence point of warm tropical and cooler temperate waters, making it a marine wildlife hotspot! Whales, Dolphins, Manta Rays, Leopard Sharks, Grey Nurse Sharks and Turtles are all common visitors. Its a perfect environment for snorkelling and freediving with prolific fish life and multiple areas to explore.


COVID-19 UPDATE: Unfortunately we are still unable to take tours out to our beloved Julian Rocks under the current restrictions We are trying our absolute BEST to find a way that we can safely + legally take you out on our vessels but we are still seeking further approval. Until further notice, all boat tours are cancelled LUCKILY, we have some incredible shore-based dive sites around + can help you with all your ocean-loving needs with courses and gear hire still on offer We appreciate your support and understanding in these difficult times ?? ? ? ??? @caityjae ???


Friendly turtle and me, Bumping into each other in the backwash. Her shell was covered of seagrass, like a if she had a roof garden, and so relax, like straight coming from Finding Nemo :-)


We live in paradise


Quiet your mind. Open your heart. - Ram Dass


Is this the most magical photo of Julian Rocks ever or...? @saxonkent we love your images


Think it???s time that I blew some bubbles again , Julian rocks , cod hole bommies , @byronbaydivecentre #byronbay #julianrocksbyronbay #happydays


GN in hugos.


Julian Rise


So beautiful, aren???t they? The water will be getting too cold for these guys soon so they???ll be tagging out with the grey nurses! Which do you prefer? ? ??? @submerged_images ? ????


It???s Monday morning which means one thing... We have a WINNER from our GIVEAWAY! Drum roll please... @grambachh CONGRATULATIONS (+ check your messages!) You???ve gone + won yourself an X-Free Mask + Snorkel AND 50% off a dive course with us ? Thank you to everyone that entered, we loved reading through all the comments We will do some more giveaways + comps in the future so keep your eyes peeled for updates ?P.S. He chose a Leopard shark, what???s not to love! ??? @ashlymcmahonphotography


GoPro 7


While we love whale season and it will be sad to see them go??? the bright side is that it means the leopard sharks will be back! These warm water loving sharks are a hit at Julian Rocks and it???s easy to see why. Graceful and friendly, they???re the best sharks to dive with and are so easy to spot from the surface. Just look at those spots!


Funky backside grab over #nguthungulli @danilo_riba


You???re looking at a blue-ringed octopus right now... Yep, a BLUE-RINGED OCTOPUS Our instructors @zoelefebvre & @matthew.john.dillon spotted this (highly venomous) little beauty at The Wreck earlier this week. Super rare find & super cool photo from a pretty special beach dive .


Julian Rocks - Byron Bay


Found myself in the Lightroom playground... oh OH! 2nd pic is the original. Any thoughts Lightroom masters?


Did you know that Julian Rocks has the world's largest aggregation of leopard sharks? Leopard sharks cruise around Byron Bay during summer months but it's still unsure where they head when the water gets cooler.


Twin Turtles A sea turtle swims up to the light to catch a breath at Julian Rocks. Can???t wait to the back there next week Something a little different for today, hope you like the edit


Yesterday we had a couple of fantastic dives at Julian Rock with @bluebaydivers . Amazing experience, there's not a better place to experience the Leopard sharks than out at Julian Rock. Thank you @bluebaydivers for the great time.


The Leopard Shark (Stegostoma fasciatum) aggregates at Julian Rocks off Byron Bay in the warmer months of the year. This is one of the main global aggregation sites of this non-aggressive, beautifully designed shark species. It???s one of my favourite wildlife encounters spending time with these normally solitary, bottom dwelling creatures as they slowly swim in numbers around the relatively shallow waters, allowing many close encounters during a dive. The sharks have distinctive elongated upper tail, flat bellies, ridged sides, small eyes and artistic spot markings that like a fingerprint are unique to each individual. They are usually accompanied by remoras (sucker fish) whose constant presence seems to frustrate the sharks at times.


A family departed aquarium #fish cherishes another family


So much fun diving with my friends Samantha Jane, Una Viggiani and Michael!


There???s a big swell and it???s raining and miserable, so why not go through photos from the last few weeks and dream of what???s out there waiting for us when conditions will improve again...


Take a look at this majestic shot of a leopard shark captured by the very talented @mattysmithphoto


Yoda Like a wise old Jedi, this loggerhead sea turtle was very intrigued to come over and check out his reflection in my dome port


In the blue @lucianaloveslife


???Julian Rocks??? I can???t get enough of this place. ??? Cheers to @byronbaydivecentre for a great morning


Cruising Into The Blue


How lucky are we to be able to surround ourselves with these beautiful sharks at Julian Rocks? You just stay in one spot and watch them circle around and around ??


Big shout out to all my fellow internshipers ! Staff at BBDC and Julian rocks (Nguthungulli) Nature Reserve for a wicked run! Have met and seen some incredible humans and wildlife and shared incredible times with you all Thankyou ??


Such a fun day of diving with divers from Gold coast dive centre! Incredible the marine life in Byron Bay with Manta Rays and Leopard sharks! Thanks Yo Negri for organising it!


We???re ready to accept your Dine & Discover Vouchers The NSW Government has launched Dine & Discover NSW to encourage the community to get out and about and support dining, arts and tourism businesses. Get your vouchers on the service NSW website, valid to 30 June 2021! Great opportunity to discover Julian Rocks, one of Australia best dive site or get in early with a gift card for whale watching!


??? Dinosaurs lurching in the deep


Let???s go diving in Byton Bay! Leopard sharks everywhere!


Another shot from better days... unfortunately the vis has dropped again and the forecast looks terrible for the Easter long weekend (as usual). At least we are allowed to operate with our very conservative Covid-safe plan in place as we have been over the last 10 months. Now it???s just about the weather. Fingers crossed it improves quickly and in the meantime happy Easter everyone! . @adriancoxphoto


MY HAPPY PLACE So happy that my form during diving got a lot better Changing my set up to a backplate and pink wing set up from @omsdive definitely helped


Easily one of my favourite moments underwater. I was so mesmerised by this fever of Cownose Rays I didn???t even look at the camera - just fired off a few shots while starry eyed. Luckily this one came out alright.


A very curious Leopard Shark at Julian Rocks. Did you know a Leopard Sharks spots are unique, just like our finger prints


It was an eagle ray kind of a day @laurags_photography


Ticked off a new shark species sighting. The Guitar Shark Thanks for a great dive @sundivebyronbay


Leopard shark season is still in full swing! So many around today


Zebra sharks snoozing and foraging at Julian Rocks!


Are turtles difficult to photograph? I get asked this a lot. The answer is, it depends. Some turtles don???t mind my company and are a lot more patient than others. Whereas some are very skitty and will swim away. People say that turtles that have eaten a jellyfish are often the best to photograph because they get ???high??? and therefore have no idea what???s going on, but not all turtles act like Crush from Finding Nemo, it???s just a rumour.


Blue water days in my beloved backyard. Taken at the beginning of the pandemic when their was no tourists at Julian Rocks for weeks. This image and the full story of that unique time was featured by the legends at @oceanographic_mag


Mantastic day @laurags_photography


Ready to go diving? No better place to watch the rain than from below the surface!


And of course lots of leopard sharks too!


We also had some beautiful eagle rays


Diving with scorpion fish in Byron Bay! Here Oren Antebi enjoying swimming next to those scorpion fish!


Leopard sharks. Truly unique. These endangered sharks belong to the class Chrondrichthyes, which is a class containing all cartilaginous fishes. However, further placing these sharks into their taxonomic rank sees them placed into the order Orectolobiformes, where you???ll find all carpet sharks! Including the oceans largest shark, the whale shark! It???s fascinating to consider that these human sized leopard sharks can be genetically related to whale sharks! If you love learning cool facts about the animals you see when you go diving, then you can rely on us for that! A qualified animal ecologist onboard for every dive


In a world of colour, be even more colourful! Not 100% sure of the type, but I reckon this is a many-spotted seastar or orange long-armed seastar. Let me know what you think!


Lunch time! Yesterday we went out to check Julian Rocks and found this huge jellyfish, swimming on the surface. Few second later, this fellow appeared out of nowhere and started munching on the jellyfish like it's no big deal Such a cool expeience...a bit savage, but amazing


Leopard in motion . It's been a few years since I've played with slow shutters underwater but stoked to have a dive and experiment again


Martial arts and Kung-fu before diving in Byron Bay with Alberto, Borja and Jose!


For those who don???t know me, I???m not one to step in front of the camera but behind it as Im usually awkward af, however this is one I???m quite proud of as it portrays me in my current true form, lifestyle and obsession with the ocean


That's Christina (right) and me (bottom left) admiring the manta ray. Girls that scuba ?? @girlsthatscuba This might give you even a bitter impression of the size of a manta ray.


Epic day underwater at the Nguthungulli nature reserve. Thank you to @apnea_art & @wildbyronseasafaris for making it happen


??? Diving in the Deep Blue


The beautiful sight of a dozen Black Spotted Eagle Rays swooping above us in Hugo???s Trench at Julian Rocks.


Diversity ?? Julian Rocks or Nguthungulli is a convergence point of warm tropical and cooler temperate waters, resulting in an amazing marine diversity


A majestic Leopard Shark cruises overhead at Nguthungulli (Julian Rocks) it???s thought that the Cape Byron Marine Park is home to one of the world???s largest aggregations of these endangered creatures. Just goes to show what happens when we protect and actively manage our oceans onboard with @byronbaydivecentre .


???Damia??? is a mature female Manta Ray first seen on Lady Elliot island in 2007. She has been spotted on 30 occasions between Byron Bay, Wolf Rock and North Stradbroke. Thanks to @projectmanta for giving a name to this beautiful animal. Any encounter with a manta ray is a truly magical and unforgettable moment Thanks @sundivebyronbay for finding her on the last dive of my trip.


It???s all sorts of bluetiful down here... Thanks for following me down to 20m - not 10m to snap this photo of me in my galactic wonderland @scottwilsonimagery


How much fun diving with this group of funny Argentinian???s and a great Vasc chef girl! The omelette tapas she cooked were delicious!


Dreamin of Damia That feeling you get as a Manta Ray approaches you and becomes so comfortable with you that they circle and dance around and above you is like no other I???ve encountered underwater. A beautiful experience, and I can???t wait for the next one


What???s Manta be, will be


Beautiful snorkelling conditions today! Nice clear and calm water,


Beauty & grace


FreeDiving 4


White Spotted Eagle ray flying by


Manta Ray, missing a tail poor thing but seemed happy and healthy anyway as it glided into a cleaning station near the ???Needles??Â at Julian Rocks.


Leopard sharks are so bloody cool! What beautiful animals. Can???t wait to get in the water again with them soon!


Good dive for Dora???s birthday day with Nicolas and Diego!


Mantas & mermaids... a morning at #julianrocks .


This happened again this morning After an already great snorkel with leopard sharks, turtles, eagle rays... this manta ray appeared and swam with us for half an hour


Beautiful conditions at Julian Rocks today! Don???t miss out and join us this week end


Coupla fish enthusiasts, trying to find lunch at the bottom of the ocean.


Although the Julian Rocks dive site is mostly known for its large marine species such as leopard sharks, eagle rays and turtles it is home to a huge number of smaller animals that are a little harder to spot. We found this yellow kneed sea spider clinging onto a piece of coral getting blown around in the surge.


Nice octopus seen today in the shallow waters of Julian Rocks!


Lots of eagle rays too!


Find me @byron_markets beachside today 8am - 3pm #julianrocks #clarksbeach #localproducts #byronbaymarkets


This one was super playful, staying with us for most of the dives and loving interacting. It was so curious and kept circling back and hanging out


Diving with first time divers Genis, Claudia y Sheila, from Catalu??a! We enjoyed so much. Great diving conditions at the moment in Byron Bay!


F A L K O R This big Puffer was doing his best impersonation of Falkor the Dragon from the movie, The never ending story. This movie was one of the first to instill in me a spirit of adventure and imagination. Many other things have had a bigger impact on me but we all start somewhere. Haha.


Cownose Rays are pretty elusive and it???s always a blessing to be able to see such a demonstration of the beauty of #nature and the #underwaterworld - have you ever been as lucky as @maxence.photography?


Lots of leopard sharks swimming in the shallow just under our fins!


A bit more of today Manta Magic


This sums up today???s magical snorkel tour Lots and lots of leopard sharks and a very friendly manta ray! Jump on board tomorrow and don???t miss out on this beautiful conditions! @laurags_photography


Found a Wobby ???Parking Lot??Â in a gully at Julian Rocks. Some SweetLips up the back too.


Excitement in the gloomy conditions.


One day when we were swimming around Julian Rocks, when we found this little guy - cruising, munching some small jellyfish, chilling...when suddenly this big lion jellyfish appeared out of nowhere! The turtle went for it straight away and happily started munching on it. We watched it for the next 10 minutes and then let him enjoy the rest of the day...


Another magical day at Julian Rocks with manta rays, leopard sharks and more


Loggerhead Turtle, just came down after a big breath at the surface, munched around for a snack from the shallow rocks here, then went out of its way to bump into me, turn around then swim back close past @finabanana. This ol??? dude don???t care about no noisey divers, just wants a scritch!


Donatello A Green Sea Turtle cruising around Julian Rocks completely unfazed swimming amongst leopard sharks and divers with cameras Happy Turtle Tuesday


Today???s Manta ray was really at ease with our presence and was even curious of those freedivers coming to have a look, doing turns towards us and letting us appreciate its beauty!


Ending the birthday month with a snorkelling trip to Julian rocks with my long time legend friend???s. . There was a lot more under the water here, we saw leopard sharks, Jamaica fish, an eel, octopus, big cod, turtles and many species of fish. We also saw a pod of dolphins. . I am so grateful for the place I live in and the friends I have!


@sundivebyronbay - discover #julianrocks and its locals


Spiralling leopards


Beautiful #julianrocks @sundivebyronbay


Bull ray checking me out, whilst I???m checking it out


Dreaming of the calm blue while waiting for this weather to clear... stay safe everyone & keep dreaming


Soaking up the sun - water and sky keep moving and shifting hues the tide is heading out and you can see more of the wreck, julian rocks watches us from the horizon, birds fish surfers swimmers and dogs living the dream


Turtlely awesome day diving in


Bexhill Quarry, NSW ~ where the water is SO blue thanks to a ph level of 3.3 (roughly equivalent as bathing in vinegar ) due to multiple elements from the old brickworks BUT my god is it stunning #didntcareaboutthatasakid


Throwback to a lucky day of catching the sunrise out at sea close to Julian Rocks. Grateful no fish for me that day although anytime I am out on a boat I feel epic?? #byronbay #julianrocks #byronbaydeepseafishingclub #enelmarlavidaesmassabrosa


When I get to dive with grey nurse sharks I often have the feeling that they accept me in their environment. I move slowly down the bottom of the ocean trying not to scare them off or just hold on a rock and observe them for as long as I can hold my breath for. They don't swim away, just swim pass me slowly, sometimes get curious about what I am and what I'm doing here and come for a closer look. They come so close that I could touch them, but I obviously don't, I have way too much respect for them. Their smile never cease to impress, their teeth look sharp, they get really big but these slow paced gorgeous animals are gentle and would never harm me. They are also critically endangered as they were once upon a time killed because of their scary appearance. Let's learn from this, it's time to stop killing sharks, our ocean need them and we need our oceans.


A leopard Sharks Golden Glow Gliding low in the underwater valley of Julian Rocks / NSW, these beautiful sharks come in great numbers, it???s been an incredible season so far, the conditions have been a real hit & miss with low winds & good visibility, but it???s guaranteed to never a dull day when you???ve got these epic creatures to share the waters with what???s your favourite species of Shark?


Great white in clear seas at Julian Rocks... in miniature....resin and 3D in oak box frame. From Dallas???s Small World - Sea Creatures


Old footage of a Numb ray just swimming around julian rock???s


Shark kiss! @sundivebyronbay ...


It's always good to have a torch,even on a day dive, never know whats playing hide n seek. At Julian rocks a Wobbegong sleeping between layers of coral (Acropora hyacinthus?)


Majestic Manta Rays in Byron Bay now!


I love octopuses But good lord this one is big! #Repost @divingbyronbay with @make_repost ??? The pacific octopus is the biggest one in the world! Can reach 245 kgs and 9 metres long! It is an amaizing creature!


The pacific octopus is the biggest one in the world! Can reach 245 kgs and 9 metres long! It is an amaizing creature!


@sundivebyronbay - meeting the #leopardshark at #julianrocks


Time now to dive with Leopard sharks at Julian Rocks, in Byron Bay


Julian Rocks is definitely a special place! Trying to fit as many leopard sharks as I can in one frame


Have you guys heard about our Molcajete?? It's probably the most amazing thing on the menu! I mean just look at it!! You get all kinds of delicious meat, Oaxaca cheese and fresh nopales swirling around in your choice of salsa! With a side of rice, beans and of course tortillas to make some yummy tacos!! Visit us soon to enjoy some of this amazing goodness!!


Wategos Views....


Another great encounter at the Rock today! Thanks for the beautiful video, Nora! @ntenbrock


Stop in today to try our delicious plato de papas!! It comes with rice, beans, salsa fresca, guac, your choice of protein and fluffy potatoes that have been cooked to perfection! Oh and of course I side of tortillas to make some great tacos!! Perfect weather for tacos and beer!!


How can a Apex predator look so cute! Ohhh well sharks!!! More than 400 species of sharks are found worldwide and only Three species can be a threat for humans. While sharks kill fewer than 20 people a year, their own numbers suffer greatly at human hands. Between 20 and 100 million sharks die each year due to overfishing, shark control program, and the famous shark finning ( that's it's actually happening in Australian waters in our Great Barrier Reef to be specific.) All of this puts these incredible animals???and the ecosystems in which they play a role???in jeopardy. A healthy ocean needs sharks. We have to stop this slaughter to rebuild shark populations and restore ocean ecosystems. what you can do to help save sharks? ??? Never buy shark cartilage, liver oil, skin, teeth, or jaws. ??? If you choose to eat seafood, make sure it???s sustainable. ??? Educate your community about the importance of protecting sharks. Don???t fear the unknown!


Hanging out with a very relaxed black eagle ray   I???m used to encountering the fellow companion White spotted eagle rays out at the reefs, so this more relaxed than usual experience was epic! They are known for their shy & skittish behaviour, as I would be too if I saw a human hanging out in my space  I love the look of their smooth black silky skin complexity!


Captured a photo of this nice lionfish at Julian Rocks off Byron Bay. The lionfish are protected by numerous fin spines that are highly venomous and can inflict excruciatingly painful puncture wounds.


There are worse ways to spend a Monday thank you ocean for always making me feel alive. And big thanks to @bluebaydivers for a great day out


A graceful leopard shark glides by to take a good hard look at the mystery creature. Although these creatures love letting around on sandy floors, leopard or 'zebra' sharks are naturally curious and will do a 'glide by' to check you out


Had Julian Rocks to ourselves on Sunday. Even though the swell was quite large the diving was still epic with heaps of leopard sharks and eagle rays


My favourite part of summer in Byron Bay - Swimming with leopard sharks everyday


These first couple of months of the year have been of enormous growth. I feel I???m finally getting to know myself again. Finally getting to reunite with my essence. To feel whole. Probably a lot of it came hand in hand with freediving. This photo was taken by @iamjuliawheeler the next day I got to Byron. Where I realized so much more than I can possibly express with words. I???m touched by the experience of having been able to dive and swim amongst these creatures of nature. So majestic, graceful and docile. extremely grateful for my friends, guides and mentors who have been part of this journey.


A Monday morning with Blue Bay Divers, what else but Mantas and mermaids?! Thanks for coming out, Matty @mattysmithphoto We hope you had a good time.


Torpedo Leopard I loved this moment of connection, as we met in the gulley of the beautiful reefs offshore from Byron Bay, we took a second of acknowledging that we where present in each other???s circle of space. This is my favourite moment to photograph Leopard Sharks, only a split second later this beauty whipped around in front of me, watching its shimmering Gold patterns & tail manoeuvre with precision all marine life in the animal kingdom are so unique & special with their personality & characteristics, that???s what I find so captivating about the world below the surface & photography as it is with life, every day holds new opportunities


Green turtle munching on some yummy jelly fish . Onboard @wildbyronseasafaris


When your dives get called off days in a row due to bad weather... You explore on-land! (and watch the whales migrating )


~ From the darkness to the light ~ One of my favourite things to do underwater is to play with lights, shadows and contrasts. I only shoot with natural light for that reason, I think it helps me to express some creativity.


Great time diving with turtles!


Turtle Tuesday, a Hawksbill looking for a tasty lunch snack


Amazing snorkel yesterday at Julian Rocks


Today got quite emotional After 3 beautiful dives, we got a call from Rod at Blue bay divers saying that some fishermen have seen a loggerhead turtle with a big hook in it near Julian rocks. We decided to try our luck and find this turtle. We headed toward the location where he was last seen and we found him! So we got 2 of our experience freedivers in the water to try to help this guy. They first made the turtle feel at ease with their presence then got closer and got the hook off!! It feels like he knew we were here to help him as he didn???t try to swim away and stayed very still during the whole process. After taking the hook off he stayed with us for a little while and took a dive into the big blue. This is the photo of the hook we took off. We did not take a photo or video of the actual turtle as we didn???t want to put pressure on him with too many divers and the 2 people in the water were busy helping him. Great ending to a hard story. Remember that the ocean is home to many marine species and protect it as much as you can


Pastel skies over Julian Rocks, Byron Bay?


Little green turtle munching on some jelly fish this morning


Yesterday we had the privilege to assist the amazing @australian_seabird_rescue team in releasing some incredibly cute loggerhead hatchlings and a tiny green turtle who had washed up during the last weeks stormy weather and were rescued and rehabilitated by the teams from Central Coast and Coffs Harbour. We gave them a ride out with @sundivebyronbay and released them offshore a good mile off Julian rocks si that the current would take them out in open sea where they will have the best chance of survival. Good luck little ones!


Can you name the photo-bomber?


I love cruising alongside marine life in their natural habitats. They???re truly the best company. You have to be calm, patient & appreciate every moment you get. Can???t wait to see what I run into this weekend: turtles, sharks or otherwise


Cursing leopard sharks everywhere and they were so many of them amongst all different type of fish. Visibility was OK, unlike the other epic day but still real good.


Fun diving next to a globe fish!


To see a leopard shark that close, Byron Bay is the place!


Leopard shark cruising around Julian Rocks ... another great diving day with @sundivebyronbay, when despite crazy weather swell and wind we were able to jump into the blue .. video made by @apobleteh - shark lover dive buddy


Never get tired of diving with these beautiful creatures.


HELP NEEDED!! . I???ve been trying to ID this for a few days now. I???m thinking some sort of sponge . If you know what this beautiful creature is, please share in the comments!


A leopard and some goats @sundivebyronbay #julianrocks


Leopard sharks - the carpet sharks of Byron. @louisaxu_ According to @paditv, because of leopard sharks relatively low reproductive rate, Stegostoma fasciatum are highly susceptible to population depletion from overfishing. These sharks are targeted by commercial fisheries for their meat, oil, and fins in the Indo-Pacific and also commonly caught as bycatch from trawl fisheries. They are currently considered endangered.


Leopard shark chilling on the bottom ... photo taken at Julian Rocks with @sundivebyronbay ... first time I saw these beautiful sharks ... very special spot to dive


Getting a closer look at some sleepy Leopard Sharks, such gorgeous creatures. This place is still one of my favourite spots to explore underneath the surface, so much underwater magic is present here?


The humpback whale. Once upon a time i used to work in Byron Bay and see these massive creatures on the daily


Nice diving few days ago!


A leopard shark circles above showing off its unique and graceful shape ?


It looks like I???ve taken up my Dad???s old daily ritual of visiting the rocks every day, it???s nice to sit here with the waves splashing at my feet


Sit back, relax. Watch how this big black sting ray glides over the rocks. On this particular day the visability was so bad. We got lucky seeing the ray, who brought us to a turtle hiding in a cave.


I???ve had some incredible times on the water the last few weeks!  soaking up the New South Wales crystal blue water & warm tropical weather while sharing a mutual love for the ocean with friends & mates  it???s always better sharing life???s experiences with other people! I love the feeling of coming back in after a snorkel / dive & raving about the wildlife & topography of the location, there generally isn???t a face on the boat that you could wipe a smile off as you bop up & down on the way back to the mainland. Bring on more days like this to come!


Leopard sharks of Julian Rocks When leopard sharks are young juvies, they are black with white stripes running down their body, leading to the name 'zebra sharks'. Or is that they're white with black stripes?! When they become adults, their bodies lighten up and the stripes change into spots - hence the name leopard sharks! Zebra sharks, leopard sharks - they're all the same!


Leopard shark joy


Sometimes, if the diver is not very confident in the water, gets an instructor to take her from the hand and guide her through the whole experience!


The small things excite me more, rather then the big things like sharks and turtles. Nothing more satisfying then looking under rocks and coral, hovering over it all and finding the small creatures. This is called a bubble snail. Have you ever seen something like this on a dive?


Couple of big snapper it???s amazing how close they come yo you out at Julian it???s like they know there safe in the marine park


@sundivebyronbay - great day at #julianrocks


If you want to dive in Byron Bay with Leopard sharks and tropical fish, now is the best time of the year!


The Nudibranch. A species of sea slug. Nudi meaning naked and branch meaning gills. Their gills are on their back. The interesting thing about nudibranchs is what they eat, they become. If they were to eat a stinging sponge, they become toxic and inedibile. They take on its abilities. There are over 3000 types of these. On the mission to find them all Which one is your favourite?


Black and white leopard


A friendly puffer fish posing for a pic.


Another manta shot from the other day, hopefully the blue water stays around


What an adventure to take a couple for the first time diving and we encounter so much marine life! It only could be in Byron Bay, of course!


Leopard Print The Leopard or Zebra Shark? In Australia this beautiful shark is known as the Leopard Shark. Either way they are one of the most beautiful sharks to get up close and personal with and watch their tales swish in front of your nose as you cruise behind them. An amazing dive with the talented @natoliunderwater , thanks for the inspiration for the B&W edit


"Jess" the mantaray (number 512 on the project manta database). On one of the many passes she made. This manta was first seen in Byron in 2011 and has been seen 17 times since at byron, north straddie and Lady Elliot Island


The more you are out at sea, the easier it is to spot whales. You develop an eye for it. You notice the smallest dorsel fin breaking through the surface or the blow from it breathing 5k away. Sometimes its made easy when a whale breaches or you can see the splashing from the whale tail or fin slapping. Have you ever been on a whale watching tour? Highly recommend


Dadirri. A word from the Ngan'gikurunggurr and Ngen'giwumirri languages of the Aboriginal people of the Daly River region. And a word that perfectly captures what I find underwater, and what I try to help other people find with my work. Aboriginal writer & elder Miriam-Rose Ungunmerr-Baumann describes it as: ???Dadirri is deep listening. It's listening to the land. Listening to the spirit speaking through the land. Listening to the stillness. The stillness in the water flowing, The wind blowing, The birds singing, The ground humming.??Â I hope this word & what it stands for touches you & teaches you like it does for me Thanks for the photo @live.free.dive


A bull ray cruising over the rocks. Just stay away from its tail. Might give you a pinch


This leopard is clearly as happy about today's dive at Julian Rocks as I was @sundivebyronbay


Easily one of my favourite dive buddies @sundivebyronbay #julianrocks


Thanks Kurt and your deadly crew @goseakayakbyronbay for the trip out to Marine Conservation near Julian Rocks... High swells Turtles Dolphins Fish


Leopard shark are just so fascinating. We???re so lucky to have them in high numbers here at Julian Rocks. Onboard @wildbyronseasafaris


The humpback whales song. Lasting up to 40 minutes. Ranging from high-ptiched squeals to rumbling growls. Only males sing the song to attract females. Every male sings the exact same song. We stick the hydrophone into the water on our whale watching tours. We got extremely lucky this day. This whale was loud. We hear the whales sing on our snorkel and dive tours. Something special hearing this sound under the water but not being able to see it. Sound travels fast Have you ever heard a humpback whale sing?


Wobbegong shark looking for shade


Welcoming the weekend ? Stunning shot of Julian Rocks by @jordan_timm


Souvenir of an epic day, fighting against an invincible current on kayak and then in the water. Even the eagle rays were struggling! But with it was with the best crew! So much fun!


Woahh, what a week and what a moment. I spent the last week in Byron Bay and I was blessed on each day of my three days of diving with @sundivebyronbay to have 20 meter visibility. Not only was the vis amazing, but the marine life was out in abundance.


Summer diving in black and white @sundivebyronbay


Snorkeling at Julian Rocks in Byron Bay with @timo_quarantino and @gabriel_von_borstel at Christmas 2018. Fantastic water conditions, crystal clear water and a lot of marien life. We saw reef sharks, mantara, gummy sharks, sting rays and so much more.


Eastern Red Scorpionfish ~ Scorpaena jacksoniensis


Have you ever swim with leopard sharks?


Locals part Tres, Julian Rocks


Beautiful morning in the water with a great crew onboard!


Oooo Yeah! Leopard Sharks All the early morning wake ups the last few weeks have been well worth it for the time I???ve got to spend with this beautiful species of Shark! I???ve swam with over 12 species of Shark on my journey as an underwater photographer The reason I love the leopards so much is their slow movements, elegant tails & their inquisitive nature! They are awesome to get up close & personal with to photograph, of course on the sharks terms - providing them the space & freedom they require & feel comfortable with


Just beautiful even on a rainy day. No wonder why everyone wants to be here.


Who said that #sharks were not friendly?


Exploring the ocean beyond Sydney... Hello Byron! No Hemsworths spotted but did find this spotted eagle ray instead! Visited the very special Julian Rocks to see the current 'locals' - leopard sharks and spotted eagle rays!


Tomorrow I???m back out to the depths of Julian Rocks for more timeless underwater adventures - What will we see, I wonder? Maybe my weight belt that???s been missing for a week!! ???


First time divers!


Do what you love everyday


Photos from this morning! Water is warm and blue and full of life


So excited! Submitted leopard shark photos for scientific ID project, and have been told I found a ???new??? one If you???ve been to Byron bay recently and swum with #leopardsharks, you might want to upload your photos to Wild Book


Leopard shark close up


Casual morning swim with my favs


Team swift getting set up for filming documentary for the abc with captain Dave and spotter bodhi


Leopard sharks everywhere out at Julian Rocks right now


Stegostoma fasciatum, The Leopard Shark.. our natural world


Hawks bill turtle getting some weed in the crevice


What an amazing day yesterday surrounded by more leopard sharks then I could count!


Diving in Julian Rocks in Byron Bay,  you can get that close to a Leopard shark! And on your first dive ever!


Take the time to deeply appreciate everything around you, those in your life and this magnificent planet we are lucky enough to call home - because it could disappear in a heart beat. [Filmed the stunning and majestic Leopard Shark yesterday on one breath during our Freediving fun dives at Julian Rocks with my @nauticamhousings ]


Amazing leopard sharks at Julian rocks there must be at least 50 out there


And more shark spam


?Leopard sharks completely change colour as they come into that top level of light and show there true beauty??


Talkin to the Fishies


Another beautiful day with clear water, leopard sharks everywhere, turtle, eagle ray and cownose rays.


Birthplace still as beautiful as ever ?? Those little board riding nippers were me 20 years ago


An awesome mantaray encounter today at byron. It came cruising in and hung around us for a while just chilling. Hardest bit was trying to fit it in the frame, it had to be at least 5m wide


Just a few of today 100 photos. It can???t really get any better. Leopards everywhere, turtles, eagle ray, and to top it up a magestic manta ray!


So many Leopard Sharks today!


How many leopard sharks can you count


Literally drenched and wishing I packed my swimmers ... and my sunnies


So many leopard sharks today that we didn???t know where to look!


A solo eagle ray cruises the shallows of Julian Rocks


Highlights from today it???s blue, it???s warm and we had a wonderful day full of leopard sharks, turtles and rays!


Come swim the friendly turtles at Julian Rocks


@byronbaydivecentre heading out to #julianrocks ....... fast!


On this particular day I could hear so many whales as I dived under, there was a special kind of magic in the water ?


Leopard flyover. Photograph by Brian Pool Sundive, Byron Bay have recently started the Cape Byron Leopard Shark programme. This programme allows individuals to upload any encounters they have of leopard sharks, not only at Julian Rocks but anywhere in the world. A fantastic project where the local divers & visitors can become 'citizen scientists'.


Beautiful grayscale morning on


Eagle rays in Byron Bay!


Snorkel / Dive in Byron Bay? . Experience the wonders of Julian Rocks marine reserve which is known as one of Australia???s best dive sites! You???ll find leopard sharks, loggerhead turtles, dolphins, manta rays and many others.


The grey nurse shark. A 3.5 meter shark. Scary teeth sticking out of its mouth.. and its very docile. Youll catch these mostly just staying still or swimming slowly. Very chill shark. They are more scared of us. I think the most i seen on a single dive was 60. It was unreal. Grateful to spend half a year seeing these nearly everyday when I was working as a divemaster in Byron bay


leopard sharks colours really popping in that top light spectrum absolutely beautiful


Amazing morning in the ocean chasing leopard sharks at #julianrocks. So peaceful watching these creatures drift through the water.


Also chasing the elusive perfect split shot of a turtle coming up for breath.


More shark spam


T A K E  A  B O W


Shades of Byron


So much magic resides here. Had planned to be here tomorrow but the boarders and restrictions had other ideas. Hopefully can get back soon to explore the incredible marine life that calls this place home


I think the Vis was about 25metres today.. early Friday mornings on Julian Rocks for the win.. so many Leopard Sharks today..


Curious Eagle ray It???s the first time I witness this behaviour. Eagle rays are usually quite shy but this one swam to the surface to quickly check us out. Still amazed


Great snorkel today!


These guys are the co stars of the show up here, who said sharks are scary


A very curious loggerhead turtle!


Beautiful morning with 15+ vis 25degrees blue water! We still have space tomorrow so come onboard to swim with turtles, rays and leopard shark!


Looking forward to a fun dive tomorrow, its been while since my last video.!!


PATTERNS = Wobbegong. The name is believed to come from the Australian Aboriginal language meaning ???shaggy beard??Â.


Fun afternoon swim at Julian Rocks. Didn???t score epic conditions but loved being in the ocean. Thanks for the ride @wildbyronseasafaris


Last week was Mantastic with 3 days full of manta rays! I???m feeling very lucky to have these giants let me swim with them and enjoy their beauty and gentle nature


Had the absolute PLEASURE of leading this group of divers on my very first trip through @scubaworld.mooloolaba to Byron Bay. We spent 2 days diving Julian Rocks with @byronbaydivecentre and were delighted to share the waters with countless wobbegongs, turtles, moray eels, nudibranchs, large cod, groupers, countless anemones full of clownfish but the show was definitely stolen by the leopard sharks. At one point I could see 15 leopard sharks, with more out in the distance. The visibility was great, we could see the bottom from the boat every dive. We were all beaming after every dive!


Spotted Eagle Rays. Average footage but soooo amazing... So beautiful. I love our Eagle Rays at home, but these are the Bentleys of the Eagle Rays. Compared to our Honda Jazz Eagle Rays at home


???The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever???


Leo Sharks ?? the sports cars of the ocean! Julian Rocks is one of the best places in the world to see them don???t miss this diving spot when you are in Byron Bay - Australia! We had very good experience with @sundivebyronbay


Hawksbill turtle encounter ?. First time seeiing these beautiful turtles.. Hope it's OK, it did have quite a lot of barnacles and was quite slow. However, I was very slow also, due to very strong currents....


??? A turtle at Julian Rocks ???


How do we convince these sharks to move down to Sydney??? . Warmer water is not an option as global warming is a bad thing. And we don't want any nasty stingers down our way either (which is a real possibility should the water temp rise further). But some of these beautiful sharks would be awesome!


Beautiful sharks, think they're my new favourites! I tried to tell them that we have 23-23 degrees in the water in Sydney too, and maybe they could come for a visit over summer at least??? As long as they don't eat our ctb friends. Actually, what do they eat?


The photo quality is reflective of the conditions of the ocean. As per usual. No one owns the ocean, and no one can tame her. She's wild and crazy and only rest very rarely.. Today was less surgy then yesterday, but that didn't stop half the group from getting stuck in the current for some rapid river fun!!


During the summer months, Julian Rocks, Byron Bay, is host to one of the largest aggregations of leopard sharks. It is an awesome experience to witness these beautiful, gentle creatures up close. Check out Sundive, Byron Bay & follow their Leopard shark programme, an unreal citizen science initiative.


Yesterday was a winner! This magestic manta ray showed up at the end of an already amazing dive with leopard sharks


Leopard sharks are in big numbers already in Julian Rocks, Byron Bay! Come and dive with them!


Leopard shark bodies Visibility and conditions worse today hence speckly photos


Spotted eagle rays - short tails today..


Beautiful Spotted Eagle Ray. Hoping the ocean will be kinder tomorrow ?


Amazing eagle ray encounter this morning! They are usually quite shy but this one did a swim to the surface to check us out!


Leopard sharks as far as you can see


Portrait


An critically endangered Hawksbill Turtle coming up for air at Julian Rocks. All marine turtle species are experiencing serious threats to their survival. The main threats to the hawksbill turtle are climate change, marine debris-entanglement, international take and terrestrial predation. Other threats include light pollution and indigenous harvesting of eggs.


And whatcha looking at human, never seen a huge friendly and really chill puffer fish before?? Answer: no . Normally they wiggle their little butts to get away from you as fast as they can. Which is not very fast, but still a lot faster than me! The fish here is sooooo chill!!! They'll swim into you if you don't move.


The small treasures. I think they were filming Finding Nemo 3


More leopard sharks. I took a lot of photos..


Turtles! All busy munching away, but occasionally popping up to thrill a few snorkellers.


Leopard Shark


Leopards everywhere in the Julian rocks jungle


A small Fever of Cownose Rays fill the ocean floor of Julian???s Rock with Elegance & Grace I felt privileged to have come across this species of Eagle Ray for the first time free diving in South East Queensland, often they can be seen in fevers of dozens, if not over a hundred rays! they are found throughout a large part of the Western Atlantic & Caribbean waters, I love their unique & rich brown to gold colours that shimmer in the sun breaking the surface - what an incredible creature!


Pure Flow State! Find a way to get there! If you need help, we???ve got the medicine! ????? This was in Byron Bay, Australia last March. Snorkeling at Julian Rocks. One of the top 10 dive spots in all of Australia. The warm and cold currents that meet here bring a HUGE array of fish, turtles, manta rays, wobbegong and nurse sharks (harmless) and beautiful soft and hard corrals.


Leopard Shark, Julian Rocks, Australia. Photograph by Brian Pool As juveniles these sharks are black with white stripes running along their body, hence the common name ???zebra??? shark. As they mature, their colouration lightens & the lines change to spots, similar to a leopards ..


Summary of today???s snorkel with @sundivebyronbay Leopard sharks everywhere! It was amazing


Shark soup


Byron Bay, Australia - August 2020 ??? #byronbay #julianrocks #byronbaylighthouse #lookout #fujix100


Map Pufferfish and friends??


Crazy divers 3 dives in a day, visibility was a bit down, but still lots to see. Never get bored in Byron Bay


Diving with Colombians is always lots of fun! Bucear con gente de Colombia siempre es muy divertido!


While the bad weather stops us from diving, time to go through photos from the last couple of weeks.


Here is another image from my special turtle and jelly moment a couple of days ago. The turtle swims off with a tasty jelly candy snack in her mouth. You can see the rather unhappy prey jelly in the background. #julianrocks delivering magic.


Spent my safety stop with this friendly Lionfish?, endemic to this part of the world?


Our sea salt spray comes straight from the beautiful waters of Byron bay. Bring Byron to you.


Finally I was able to dive with a few (lots actually) beautiful leopard sharks at Julian Rocks! Had some gopro issues because of user error haha but managed a few snippets of average quality.


Spotted eagle rays. So big we initially thought they were mantas.


We have the leopard sharks already en Byron Bay! Come and dive with us!


Spending time with prehistoric creatures . . @fourlegstwohumps


The sea is an underwater museum still awaiting its visitors.