RESCU: What is the best way to experience travelling the coastline of Australia?
David Whitehill: We all know Australia is a huge place so flying into a destination and getting amongst it once you are there is the best way to utilise your holiday time.
RESCU: Where is the best place to visit for a diverse range of marine wildlife?
David Whitehill: I’m caught between The Great Barrier Reef, Tasmania, and the south west corner of WA. Recently I have been exploring Sydney and have been amazed at the amount and quality of marine life. We have a beautiful international city only a stones throw from the ocean, it’s really opened my eyes.
RESCU: Where are your top 3 places to visit?
David Whitehill: I love North Stradbroke Island off Brisbane. I’ve been holidaying there since I was young and the surf, beaches and lifestyle makes for a perfect escape.
Thailand is quite amazing because of the variety of experiences you can have, all above board of course. It’s cheap, the food is sensational, and the people are really welcoming. There’s some great diving in warm tropical waters.
Fiji has got to be my pick though. Surf, island life and superb diving. This is the kind of place where the visibility seems to go on forever and you forget you’re underwater. Easy flight from Australia’s east coast straight into relax mode.
RESCU: What advice do you give to tourists who are scuba diving for the first time?
David Whitehill: Be calm. Scuba diving is about slowing your body and mind down and just enjoying this entirely different world. It’s foreign at first, but if you can trust your gear and go with someone who is helpful and understands that you could be a touch apprehensive, you’ll be hooked. First timers will probably enjoy a dive in warmer water (22 degrees plus) a little more because it takes away that cold factor.
RESCU: How can children travelling with their parents experience marine life on the coastline?
David Whitehill: Australia is the biggest island on the planet so we have some serious coastline. Explore the rock pools, get into the ocean, and start to build a love for this incredible asset we have. Snorkeling is something that is virtually free and the whole family can do together, and make sure you swim on patrolled beaches in between the flags if you’re not super confident in the water. The ocean can be unforgiving, but that’s why we love it!
To find out more about David Whitehill and how he is helping marine wildlife visit https://www.ourbluebackyard.com.au
