Robert's Ramblings

Last week a lucky few of us had the chance to dive the AV Ulonga.

The AV Ulonga was a Murray River paddle steamer converted to be an ocean-going cargo vessel. She sank in 1976 in around 38m of water about 10 nautical miles off the coast of South Australian's Fleurieu Peninsula. At over 33m in length with some penetration, she makes for a fantastic dive.

Pictured above on the descent are Alexius, with camera at the ready, and Ken. Notice the extra tanks we all took down for the dive. I'll let you guess what's in them!

For more information on the history of the AV Ulonga checkout Steve Reynold's article at http://www.mlssa.asn.au/nletters/march2005.htm

Until the next post, take care out there and keep diving ( if that's what you do! ) ...Robert

Photo: Robert Rath C5060 1/500s at f/4 ISO200 Inon UWL100-28AD Lens

The Ex-HMAS Hobart is one of Australia's best naval wreck dives. This Adam's class guided missile destroyer was sunk here in 2002 as an eco-tourism draw card.

At over 130m long there's a lot of wreck to dive on. Much of the wreck is in the 15-25m region which gives lots of bottom time. Still plan at least 10 dives to see it properly!

This photograph was taken in one of the engine rooms at around 23m.

As my first 'fun' dive for the year and my first dive on the Hobart with my camera, it was a fantastic way to kick-start 2008.

Until the next post, take care out there and keep diving ( if that's what you do! ) ...Robert

Photo: Robert Rath C5060 1/30s at f/6.7 ISO200 Inon UWL100-28AD Lens