Scuba Diver Australasia + Ocean Planet
FROM THE EDITOR
Sorry to say it, but even in 2016, the diving industry reflects the gender imbalances still so prevalent in the world today. Diving is still undoubtedly a male dominated domain. But things are slowly changing, and this issue is all about celebrating some of the pioneers – tipping our masks to some of the underwater world’s female role-models.
From courageous young ladies like Madison Stewart who has dedicated her life to saving sharks (p34), to veterans of marine conservation like Dr Sylvia Earle (p28), the waters are full of inspiring women. More of whom are also increasingly being recognised for their photographic prowess, and in this issue’s #uwphotography section (p12) we pay homage to some of ladies who have been consistently at the forefront of underwater photography in recent times.
We still have a long way to go, however. In an eye-opening editorial, the “Queen of the Mantas”, Dr Andrea Marshall, tackles the reasons women are still so underrepresented in the sciences.
It’s impossible to adequately showcase all of the incredible “sisters of the sea”; most of you are out there simply doing what you love, under the waves, out of the limelight. This issue is dedicated to all of you.