This was sent to me by a friend Stephen, who lives in NSW and has done lots of diving round Australia and other parts of the world.
FISH ROCK CAVE DEPTH 12 TO 24 METRES
The craggy island of Fish Rock is no indication of the splendor that lies underneath. At 120 metres long, and well known as one of the largest ocean caverns in the southern hemisphere, FISH ROCK CAVE has attracted divers worldwide. Enter the deep end of the cave at a depth of 24 metres where thousands of bullseyes hang suspended. Swim into the tunnel entrance over huge wobbegong sharks and a large bull ray resting on the bottom. You will pass by clusters of live cowry shells, a large Spanish dancer, bryozoan lace coral and sea cucumbers to name but a few. Ascend up one of the two vertical chimneys with only your torch light piercing the darkness, and see the many glowing eyes from hundreds of painted crayfish following your progress. At the right time of year, giant cuttlefish lay their eggs in the cave and the huge male is a spectacular sight with his colours flashing. Pop up into the bubble cave for a quick chat before emerging into the light zone.
The shallow end usually stops people in their tracks. The deep blue opening is a vision people have seen in many photographs, magazines and books and it still doesn’t prepare them for the spectacular beauty. Silhouetted in the opening are thousands of bullseyes, gorgonian coral fans, trumpetfish, black cod and many other species of fish. During most of the year grey nurse sharks are regularly sighted silhouetted in the opening making it a photographers’ paradise. There are also nudibranchs, bright orange zooanthids, moray eels and anemone and clown fish….and all this before emerging.
ABOUT SOUTH WEST ROCKS
Apart from having some of the best diving on the East Coast of Australia, South West Rocks is the perfect holiday destination.
South West Rocks is mid-way between Sydney and Brisbane, situated near the mouth of the Macleay River on the broad semi-circle sweep of Trial Bay. A place of serene beauty framed by spectacular landscapes, this lovely seaside locality holds a treasure of things to experience and explore.
Unspoiled beaches, crystal clear water and a sub-tropical climate provide the perfect opportunity for many water sports including swimming, sailboarding, sailing, surfing and of course scuba diving. Fishing is also very popular whether on the beach, at sea or in the estuary, and boat owners have easy access to river, creek or ocean boat ramps. A visit to historic Trial Bay Gaol and Smoky (Captain Cook spelt it that way – not us) Cape Lighthouse is also a must when visiting ‘The Rocks’. The views are spectacular…whale and dolphin watching is a favourite activity for many people living or enjoying holidays on the mid-north coast.
Prior to visit or while you are with us we are more than happy to help you arrange other activities in and around South West Rocks – for example fishing (river and ocean), 4WD tours, horse trekking, BBQ boat, walking in Hat Head National Park.
It’s been rated one of the top 10 dives in the country!
Come over and say hello at the Scuba Diving forum here.
