MEET TEGAN CRANDALL, ORPHEUS ISLAND RESORT’S DIVE INSTRUCTOR

What attracted you to come and dive here?

I started here in December 2014. I was originally only going to stay for the last six weeks of the season but I loved the resort and diving so much that I applied to come back. Being able to dive and snorkel the Great Barrier Reef really is the best job in the world.

Were you impressed by the set-up on the island for diving?

The variety of equipment is great, especially our boats. Having three completely different vessels lets us access almost any area or site around the Palm Island group and Bramble Reef in the outer Great Barrier Reef.

What’s special about the dive sites you can access?

Most people comment on how unique each dive site is, and to me that’s what makes them special; from the beautiful soft coral gardens to the hard coral walls, and even limestone channels. It’s also amazing to have the whole site to yourself, I think it really makes people feel like they are exploring somewhere that still has a bit of mystery.

What’s the best diving experience you’ve had here?

It’s hard to pick just one; my favourite place is the western wall of Bramble Reef because the coral is breathtakingly beautiful and the marine life is abundant.

What’s your favourite animal to spot when you’re out on the reef?

My favourite would have to be a manta ray; such a beautiful, graceful and intelligent creature. During the winter months we find them around the islands almost every day.

Are people able to take dive lessons with yourself and the team at Orpheus?

We cater for all levels of diving experience, whether it’s your first dive or your 100th. We can even take the kids for a dive in the pool too. Some people also choose to complete there PADI Open Water course with us during their stay.