When The Reef Comes Alive At Night

Credit: Mission Beach Dive

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If you've been out on the water recently, you'll know just how beautiful conditions have been – calm, crystal-clear seas, as smooth as a millpond. Now imagine descending beneath those waters at night, surrounded by an underwater snowstorm of pink, purple and shimmering colour.

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It's coral spawning season, one of nature's most extraordinary spectacles, happening just an hour off the Mission Beach coast.

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Each spring, following a full moon, millions of coral colonies release tiny bundles of eggs and sperm in a remarkable, synchronised event, creating the next generation of the Great Barrier Reef. And thanks to Mission Beach Dive, locals and visitors have an opportunity to witness this incredible phenomenon.

Business owner Robbie Parsonage has experienced coral spawning many times.

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"It's a magic place to be. It's just like a massive release and it's all iridescent under the torchlight," Robbie said. "It's exactly like it's snowing."

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With spawning already observed following October's full moon, Mission Beach Dive is offering a special night dive at Beaver Reef on Saturday 28th November. Just over an hour offshore, Beaver Reef is a long-protected marine sanctuary, renowned for its beautiful corals and abundant marine life. And even without spawning, Robbie says night diving is unforgettable.

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"The reef is so different of a nighttime," he said, describing how marine creatures emerge and the underwater world comes alive.

The excursion is limited to 12 certified divers, with experienced instructors and guides, although spawning sightings cannot be guaranteed. For non-divers, Mission Beach Dive also offers daytime snorkelling adventures, with smaller groups and plenty of space to enjoy the reef.

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Robbie believes October and November are among the best months to explore our offshore waters.

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"It's our backyard. I think everyone should see it at one stage or another.”

And with this natural wonder so close to home, why wouldn't you?

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For bookings and enquiries, visit Mission Beach Dive at Shop 16, The Village Green, Mission Beach, call 0455 957 263 or visit www.missionbeachdive.com.au.

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