News
It’s Sharkfest 2016 tomorrow!
The UK’s first ever Sharkfest takes place tomorrow, Saturday 24th September.
The all day festival at the M-Shed in Bristol, which Scubaverse covered in May following the festival’s initial announcement by hosts Fin Fighters, brings together some of the leading lights in the world of shark and ray conservation and research to celebrate some of the world’s most misunderstood creatures.
The Shark Trust, The Manta Trust, LAMAVE Project Philippines and Sharks4Kids are among the many shark and ray conservation organisations attending, while a wealth of other influential environmentalists including; Surfers Against Sewage, Wise Oceans and the Marine Conservation Society will be there to share their work.
But that’s not all – the fish filled day will be painted with the work of artists, clothing makers, underwater photographers and film makers; with over 40 stalls, the day has something for everyone.
Activities include a masterclass from Frogfish Photography, a citizen shark science workshop with Fin Fighters and the screening of David Diley’s award winning documentary film ‘Of Shark & Man’, followed by a question and answer session with David himself. One of the makers of the recent hit BBC documentary series, Shark, will also be there to give a talk, along with many other speeches from experts and representatives throughout the day.
Catering for shark lovers, conservationists, surfers, kids and those with curiosity, SharkFest 2016 is set to be a day that if you’re in the area and free, you’d be crazy to miss.
Tickets can be purchased on the Fin Fighters website or on their Generosity page for $14 USD (£10 GBP) or $26 for two. Children under 16 go free. Further ticket and festival t-shirt combos can also be found by aforementioned link.
For any other inquiries, email info@finfighters.org.
Full line up: The Shark Trust, Fin Fighters, The Manta Trust, Shark Guardian, Marine Conservation Society, Large Marine Vertebrates Project Philippines, The Gills Club, Frogfish Photography, Sharks 4 Kids, The Black Fish, Surfers Against Sewage, Wise Oceans, Institute of Zoology, David Diley (Of Shark & Man), Jennie Hammond from BBC Shark, The Marine Biological Association, SKYODD, Sharks Teeth Limited, Shark Jewellery by DZN, Oh! Dakuwaqa Comics, Salt Water Life, Basking Shark Scotland, Incredible Oceans, Blue Planet Aquarium, Honolulu, Sharkstuff, Love the Oceans, Becky Jackson Design.
Here are the speaker presentation times:
Photo: Frogfish Photography
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.
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