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1st Quarter 2008

ReefCI Belize

In January, ReefCI submitted our 3rd annual report to the Department of Fisheries, Belize.  This gives us 3 years of baseline data, after 5 years we will begin to see some actual results.  This is very important to the conservation efforts in the Sapodilla Cayes and in particular with sustainability of commercial species such as conch, lobster and commercial fish species.

Hurray, Whale Shark season is upon us, the first Whale Shark has already been sighted in the Sapodilla Cayes Reserve.  During the full moon periods of the next few months, we will be looking out for the largest fish in the ocean.  We are extremely lucky to have the opportunity each year to swim with these fantastic creatures…….and, no other tourists or dive boats around.  Firstly, we look out for the bird activity, take our boat to the area and wait for the Whale Shark to surface……then, we carefully get into the water and swim alongside these fantastic creatures!  We take photo identification to pass on to Rachel Graham of WCS to assist her with her ongoing projects and study of the Whale Sharks.  Swimming with Whale Sharks is definitely one of the most amazing experiences that any diver can have! 

In January we said goodbye to Andy (PADI Instructor) and Heather (Marine Biologist).  Andy and Heather have bought a Dive Centre in Fuerteventura and also recently got engaged……..congratulations and we wish you all the luck with your future.  We said hello to Aylin, our very enthusiastic and passionate Marine Biologist.  Aylin is a great asset to ReefCI and of huge value to us.  As part of our on-going sponsorship for locals, Aylin has begun the Dive Master program with Fray and Ashdon…………dreads under water, very funny!!!!  

And thanks to Jerry, our Dive Master, for all your hard work and for being a great barman at the weekends!  Good luck with your IDC.

Alison and Dave, we loved having you here for the past 3 months, your enthusiasm and positive attitudes are already missed.  Maiko (aka the bomb!) great to have you back for the New Year, looking forward to having you  back with us for your third visit in May…….hope PG can handle it and not too many Friday night black outs!  And……..Timmy, back for another month (or two!)….ReefCI was not the same without you! Good luck with your IDC and see you in a couple of weeks.  And…..Brian, we loved having you here, thanks for the amazing pics and hopefully we will see you again in September.  Chaim, you are missed.  My twin sister Claire came over for a couple of weeks to help me set up the bar & restaurant and……..we managed to take some time out and do a couple of trips, loved having you here Claire, miss you!