News
BSAC’s 2016 Diving Conference was biggest in more than ten years
The recent BSAC Diving Conference is being described as the biggest and best in years. The expanded breakout sessions were well received, as were the top-notch external speakers, free drinks at the end of the day and new conference dinner.
Pioneering underwater explorer and filmmaker, Jill Heinerth delighted delegates with her stunning images and jaw-dropping tales of exploration and adventure. While world-renowned diving medicine expert Dr Neal Pollock gave everyone a lot to think about with his talk on the thoughtful management of decompression stress.
Held on Saturday 22 October, there was a feeling of optimism and unity through the conference day as plans were shared to take BSAC through the next few years. And there was a noticeable post-conference ‘ripple effect’…within a week, it’s reported that five dive shops approached the training organisation to become BSAC-affiliated, four new clubs have committed to getting on board and a Great British Diving video went viral on Facebook.
BSAC Marketing Manager Debbie Powell, who led on the changes for the 2016 conference, was delighted with the event. “There was a great vibe on the day and the feedback since has been very positive – we’re thrilled. When the delegate survey data is in we’ll take stock then work towards delivering an even better event for members in 2017.”
BSAC were able to offer so much more this year at the conference thanks to their generous sponsors: AP Diving, Bluefin, blue o two, Costa Calida, SCUBA and Wakatobi.
There will be a full report and pictures from the BSAC Diving Conference 2016 in the December issue of SCUBA magazine (out from 17th November). You can also check out the BSAC Diving Conference photo album on Facebook.
If you have any feedback on the conference or ideas for future events, email conference@bsac.com.
To find out more about BSAC, visit www.bsac.com.
Last Thursday, Oyster Diving transformed Mercers Lake into a hauntingly unforgettable underwater realm for their inaugural Halloween Scuba Party. Approximately 20 intrepid divers plunged into the darkness, weaving through a mesmerising scene of spectral decorations, glow sticks, and eerie underwater pumpkins.
After the thrilling night dive, participants gathered to feast on a ghoulish spread of pumpkin soup, chilli con carne, and decadent fudge brownies, perfect fuel for the frightful festivities.
With a resounding success, Oyster Diving is excited to announce plans for this event to become an annual tradition. Next year, look forward to a fully licensed bar and live music, promising an even spookier celebration under the moonlit waters.
Join us next Halloween for an experience that promises to be a haunting delight!
Find out more about Oyster Diving at oysterdiving.com.
After a two-year tour of UK art galleries, community spaces and aquariums, the Shark Trust’s acclaimed Oceanic31 exhibition takes its final bow at the Royal Geographical Society later this month. And the unique collection of artwork, depicting 31 species of oceanic sharks and rays, donated by 31 artists, is now open for bids from art lovers and shark enthusiasts. The online auction, launched today, will close on the 7th December at 8pm (BST). The money raised will support the Shark Trust Oceanics Programme.
People can now bid on 27 of the artworks by visiting this website:
https://superstars-auctions.com/sharktrustauction
It is a chance to own a beautiful piece of original art and to support the Shark Trust. The timing of the auction also means that these would make a very special Christmas gift for any shark-lover.
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- Bigeye Thresher Shark by Janina Rossiter
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- Carcharodon carcharias by Jimmy Higgs
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- Croc VR 2030 by Tom Mead
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- Oceanic Whitetip by ATM
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- Silky Street by ScapaJoe
The diversity of pieces mirrors that of the sharks and rays they represent. You can bid on paintings, digital creations, sculptures, mixed media and more. You can pick your favourite artist or species of shark. Or you can select the perfect artwork to make a statement in your home or office. Whichever you choose, you will be supporting the work to protect these amazing animals.
One of the pieces of art has been selected to be auctioned live by Steve Backshall at the For the Love of Sharks event at the Royal Geographical Society in London on the 29th November. In addition to this, two further pieces will be raffled at this event, giving people a chance to win an incredible piece of shark art. For the Love of Sharks is the Shark Trust’s flagship evening. A night to celebrate sharks. Steve Backshall is the headline speaker at this event that will see other prominent shark advocates join him on stage.
Tickets for the event can be snapped up here:
https://thesharktrust.org.uk/Event/flos24
Those that would like to see the Oceanic 31 exhibition have one final chance. It is being displayed at the Pavilion at the Royal Geographic Society from 26th November until the 7th December. Entry is free.
Find out more here:
https://www.rgs.org/events/upcoming-events/oceanic-31
Paul Cox, Shark Trust CEO, Said “This exhibition has given us the opportunity to reach out to a new audience. And inspire more people with the wonderful sharks and rays on which our Big Shark Pledge campaign is based. We are immensely grateful to the 31 artists who have worked so hard to create these works.”
Bid for your favourite Oceanic 31 artwork here:
https://superstars-auctions.com/sharktrustauction
Banner Image: Smooth Hammerhead by Alicia Hayden
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