News
Get ready for OZTek 2017
Not to be missed, OZTek is a one-stop shop window into the dynamic world of diving. Internationally acclaimed speakers from around the world share adventures and ideas, their topics spanning the entire range of diving, from mysterious wrecks and magnificent underwater cave systems, through to the latest innovations in equipment, training and imaging technologies.
Workshops, stories, travel, toys and training – OZTek2017 will be bursting at the seams with the very best diving has to offer. A must-visit event for any diver keen to learn, be entertained, be inspired and kept abreast of the latest diving trends, equipment innovations and travel destinations.
When?
March 18-19, 2017 at the Australian Technology Park, Sydney, Australia.
What to expect…
Incredible, World-class Speakers
OZTek’s about pushing boundaries, exploration, stories and adventure. About sitting open-mouthed, listening to amazing tales of exploration, of the preparation involved, the dedication, the problems encountered, whilst admiring awe-inspiring images – not to mention meeting extraordinary diving characters.
For up-to-date speaker information click here.
OZTek is about discovering what’s possible
Each presenter brings unique, exciting (sometimes sobering) topics heard first down under. They provoke awe, provide knowledge, improve methodology and above all, entertain.
As well as incredible stories – there is so much to experience – travel destinations, liveaboards, Australian adventures, new innovations, equipment, training, photography (cameras, housings, strobes, lenses…), dive instruments, compressors, wet & dry suits … the list is simply too long to write!
Meet the Experts face-to-face
AP Diving | Asia Divers / El Galleon | Blue Label Diving | Christmas & Cocos Keeling Island | DAN AP | Deep Blue Ventures | Deep Dive Gear | Digital Diver | Dive 2000 | Dive Adventures | Dive Log | Diversion Dive Travel | Divesoft | Dive Systems | Dive Tek | Down Under Aquatic Imaging| DGX Premium Products | Fourth Element | eScuba | Halcyon | Historical Diving Society | Mares, Mike Ball Dive Expeditions | Pro Diving Services | Professional Diving Services | Queensland Breathing Systems | Quest Tours | RX Safety | Scubapix | Scuba Diver Australasia | Shearwater Research | Solomon Island Visitors Bureau | Spirit of Freedom | SSI | TDI/SDI/ERDI | Tec Divers | Tech Asia | TUSA | Villa Alba | Wakatobi Dive Resort | Waterproof
New exhibitors added regularly, so for up-to-date news, visit OZTek’s Exhibitors’ page here.
Underwater Photographic Exhibition, Competition & Workshops
For the first time, the George’s Cameras Image Centre will hold photographic technical workshops, as well as showcasing the second Underwater Photographic Exhibition and the winners of the OZTek2017 Underwater Photographic Competition, including the inaugural Nikon Dive Portfolio of the Year.
Registrations for entry to the Underwater Photographic Competition are now open.
See more: Georges-Cameras-Image-Centre
Workshop topics will be available closer to the event. Competition registration & terms-and-conditions here.
The Grand Finale …
The Gala Awards Dinner – a ticketed event including a magnificent meal, unlimited beers, wines and soft drinks, guest speakers and the presentation of the OZTek Awards.
Relax, socialise and unwind – the perfect finish to a memorable weekend (NB: Nominations will be called late September).
OZTek Diving Conference & Exhibition is much more than just another dive show; it’s a dynamic event focused on excitement and tomorrow’s diving possibilities.
For Tickets and all up-to-date information go to: www.oztek.com.au
Gear News
Introducing the TR-80, IR-50 and CS-30 Regulators from DYNAMICNORD
Whether you are a beginner or a professional diver – with the three new main regulators from DYNAMICNORD, everyone will find their favourite regulator. They all look super stylish.
Excellent performance with the TR-80
Quality and performance are the be-all and end-all for regulators. It is not for nothing that the TR stands for Tec Reg. The innovative design of the TR-80 guarantees absolute reliability – even in ice-cold waters.
Perfect breathing effort at 0.8 J/l / certified for diving in waters below 10 degrees / structural design made of solid brass for best cold protection / membrane-compensated design with dry seal of the first stage / reduced exhalation effort thanks to optimized exhalation membrane and bubble deflector / adjustable Venturi (dive/predive) and adjustment knob for individual inhalation comfort / innovative design of the front cover prevents free-flow in strong currents or when diving with scooters / design made of sandblasted brass, matt chrome finish / 2 HP and 4 LP outlets / mouthpiece made of high-quality, anti-allergic silicone for maximum comfort.
Amazing underwater adventures with the IR-50
The IR-50 is the top regulator for advanced and experienced divers. Natural breathing is the essence of this regulator.
Ideal breathing effort at 0.8 J/l /certified for diving in waters below 10 degrees / compensated membrane / adjustable venturi (dive/predive) and adjustment knob for individual inhalation comfort/ outlet valve and deflector for minimum exhalation effort and reduction of bubbles on the face / design made of sandblasted brass, matt chrome finish / 2 HP and 4 NP outlets / mouthpiece made of high-quality, anti-allergic silicone for maximum comfort.
The Workhorse – our CS-30
For diving centres and diving beginners – the workhorse stands for strong construction, reliability and robustness. Perfect for your training.
Optimal breathing effort at 0.8 J/l /recommended for diving in waters above 10 degrees / non-compensated piston / adjustable venturi (dive/predive) / outlet valve and deflector for minimum exhalation effort and reduction of bubbles on the face / design made of sandblasted brass, matt chrome finish / 1 HP and 3 NP outlets / mouthpiece made of high-quality, anti-allergic silicone for maximum comfort.
Octopus OP-30
The OP-30 is the ideal addition to all DYNAMICNORD regulators. It is identical in construction to the CS-30.
The TR-80, IR-50, CS-30 (DIN & INT) regulators and the Octopus OP-30 are available from DYNAMICNORD dealers and in the online store.
DYNAMICNORD – Your Outdoor Companion.
Marine Life & Conservation
Paul Watson Released as Denmark Blocks Japan’s Extradition Bid
Renowned anti-whaling activist Paul Watson has been released from custody in Greenland after spending five months in detention. Denmark’s Justice Ministry rejected Japan’s request for his extradition, citing insufficient guarantees that his time already served in custody would be credited against any potential sentence.
The 74-year-old Canadian-American was arrested on July 21 in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, when his ship docked to refuel. His arrest was based on a 2012 Japanese warrant related to a 2010 encounter in Antarctic waters. Japan alleged Watson obstructed operations and caused damage to a whaling research ship during efforts to disrupt illegal whaling. Watson has consistently denied these claims, maintaining his commitment to marine conservation.
Denmark, which oversees extradition matters for Greenland, concluded that while the legal conditions for extradition were met, the lack of assurances from Japan regarding time-served credit made extradition untenable.
In a video shared by his foundation, Watson expressed gratitude and relief, saying, “After five months, it’s good to be out… and good to know they’re not sending me to Japan.” He added that the most difficult part of his time in custody was being separated from his two young sons.
Watson is a pioneering figure in marine conservation, known for founding the Captain Paul Watson Foundation in 2022 after decades of activism with the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. His bold efforts to defend marine life have earned him widespread support, including from celebrities and conservationists. His work has also been featured in the acclaimed reality TV series Whale Wars.
Watson’s lawyer, Jonas Christoffersen, praised the decision, stating, “We are happy and relieved that Paul Watson is now free.” He added that Watson is eager to reunite with his family and continue his vital work.
The arrest occurred while Watson’s vessel, the M/Y John Paul DeJoria, was en route to the North Pacific with a team of 26 volunteers to intercept a Japanese whaling ship. His foundation described the arrest as politically motivated and emphasized that Watson’s actions were focused on ending illegal whaling practices.
Japan resumed commercial whaling in 2019 after leaving the International Whaling Commission, asserting that whale meat is a cultural tradition. Conservationists, however, continue to challenge these practices, highlighting their impact on marine ecosystems.
Despite the challenges, Watson remains steadfast in his mission to protect marine life and bring attention to whaling practices. His dedication to ocean conservation has made him a globally respected advocate for the environment.
-
News2 months ago
Iconic SS United States to become the World’s Largest Artificial Reef
-
News3 months ago
Book Review – 52 Assignments: Underwater Photography
-
Gear News3 months ago
DYNAMICNORD – New German diving brand enters the British market
-
News3 months ago
Exploring Cenote El Pit: A Diver’s Dream
-
Gear News3 months ago
Try BARE drysuits (and maybe even win one!) this Friday with Sea & Sea at North West Dive Fest
-
Marine Life & Conservation3 months ago
Book Review: Coral Triangle Cameos
-
Blogs2 months ago
Dive the Egyptian Red Sea this Autumn with Regaldive
-
News3 months ago
2024 Ocean Art Underwater Photo Competition Announced