The start of a new adventure!

I am wishing all my readers, fellow divers, ocean lovers, marine conservationists, travellers, photographers, adventurists and dreamers a blessed, peaceful, safe and healthy 2024. May you materialise those goals that you have been dreaming of and those you have worked on so diligently.

Eleven months ago I started a Facebook Page, “Keepers of the Sea”, to celebrate all those unsung heroes who are putting in the time and effort to be the difference in saving the sea. I was hoping to educate myself in the process and perhaps share some information on social media that may reach those who need to receive it. In these postings I have shared “Photos of the Day”, “Videos of the Day” and many Conservation Shout-Outs. In the process I have discovered many talented and adventurous underwater photographers and videographers.

These images are not only educational and beautiful, but introduce the underwater world to many individuals who would otherwise not know about the existence of this magical and beautifully balanced alien world under the sea. I am meeting new species daily and am in awe of creation on a level not previously experienced by myself.

My own footage is currently limited to photography above the waves. I’m aware that the steady growth of followers could possibly be increased by publishing more original underwater footage. However I have an inner photographer and publisher that may take over my dives completely, once I become an underwater photographer. Will it be such a distraction that it will minimize my soulful underwater observations, turning me into a photographer only?

I posted a request on several Facebook Pages asking for an introduction to someone who might be able to introduce me to someone who may just be able to give me an opportunity to work on a coral nursery as a volunteer. I had many reactions! Then a marine biologist made contact with me and introduced me to someone who seems willing to give me an opportunity! I am carefully elated! Ok, bursting with excitement and scared of disappointment at the same time.

If you have read my earlier blogs, you’ll remember that nine months ago a similar opportunity did not materialise and I had accommodation booked and an air ticket. We decided that I would take the trip as a three month dive adventure. Here I am again, I have booked very basic accommodation, a flight and have a small grocery budget that will need even more creativity from me than during the last trip. I am departing 23 January 2024, unless another cyclone changes the date.

 Yesterday Cyclone Belal swept over Mauritius (my destination) as well as Réunion. I am relieved that all my friends are safe. Once island life returns to some normality, the effect of the cyclone on the Coral Nurseries will have to be determined. At the moment I will be happy to assist in post cyclone clean-ups and in any other way that this kind hearted community needs me.

My previous stay turned into a journey of self-discovery instead of coral transplantation. The aftermath of Belal may push my adventure into a direction that I cannot even contemplate now. I am open to experience whatever is set out for me. I am ticking lists and started packing – just a girl (not a young one) with some mobility challenges, but with a BIG Dream and craving LIFE.  I will report back to you on what I find on the other side of my imminent flight, as soon as I am settled.

Rien n’est facile, mais tout est possible.

By Lynette Gerber-Lochenkov

Thank you to underwater photographer, Cliffyclix, for allowing me to use some of your stunning photographs in this blog.