Opal Reef’s very own version of Uluru exists just 16 metres under water and is aptly named Ayers Rock. As divers approach this huge coral formation, it is easy to see why it was given the name it has. The shape is similar to Australia’s famous icon, even if it is many times smaller, yet the colour certainly sets it apart… it’s green!
Divers are briefed to keep their eyes open for a large mountainous shape that, once they get up close, looks more like a giant broccoli than anything else. With its deepest side sloping off around 19 metres, Ayers Rock lies on a slope of sand and has become home to a variety of fish.
Curios yet timid, the Great Barrier Reef anemone fish that live on the north side of the coral mound venture out of their home to pear at the divers who hover around them. Graceful in their movements, the lionfish that hide around the bottom fringes attract the divers as well. Their delicate array of long spines, usually striped red or green with white, look too beautiful to be so dangerous. This venomous fish is always a favourite for the photographers.
When visibility is over 20 metres, divers are also guided to the pentacle that looms some 15 metres west of Ayers Rock. Not usually visited, the fish here are tamer than they should be and swim around you without fear. The swim across the flat sandy patch to get there is the perfect opportunity to spot blue spotted sand rays and sleepy reef sharks.
Combined with the dive sight Bashful Bommie, this is the perfect spot to kick off your morning of diving Australia’s Great Barrier Reef!
