Local marine enthusiasts boost eco-tourism
According to Bill Barker, Secretary of the Nature Coast Marine Group (NCMG), there is a growing number of local residents wanting to enjoy marine eco-tourism experiences. As part of this upsurge of interest, 20 snorkelers from the NCMG travelled to Montague Island on board Narooma Charters’ ‘Dreamtime’ last Sunday to snorkel with the seals and other marine life.
‘For many of the snorkelers it was their first underwater encounter with the seals and they were unanimous in rating it as a fantastic experience’, Bill said.
The snorkelers enjoyed wonderful conditions, with calm water, mild temperatures and 30 metre visibility. The only thing missing was a bit of sunshine.
‘Montague is at its best for divers and snorkelers at this time of year. In my opinion, conditions at the moment are as good as you get in the tropics, with clear, blue water and amazing marine life,’ Bill said.
‘The establishment of the Marine Park has kindled an interest among locals and visitors in getting out and experiencing the marine environment at first hand. Snorkeling with the seals is a world class attraction, available right here at our doorstep, to anyone who can swim. This sort of eco-tourism activity is part of the economic future for Narooma.’
With the success of last Sunday’s outing, the Group will organise another snorkel with the seals later in the year. In addition, the NCMG runs a range of other activities to give its rapidly growing list of members opportunities to enjoy and learn about the marine environment. This is also a focus on education and research.