G at Australian Seachange Newsletter - Southern Freedivers

Interpacific- Dunsborough WA April 2009
Report by Ali MacNeill – Australian team manager
The end of April and beginning of May saw four extremely talented teams of divers arrive in
Dunsborough, Western Australia, at various times from the countries of New Zealand, Hawaii, Tahiti
and host country Australia.
New Zealand being very keen and with a large entourage, arrived first. They headed down to the
South West of WA and settled into the Dunsborough Lakes Caravan Park, where we would all
eventually stay. New Zealand had a strong line up with Duane Herbert (Runner up at the Australian
Nationals, Colin Smith, Ian Warnock (very seasoned competition divers) and a young enthusiastic
and competent, Julian Hansford and Herb as Manager. Whilst New Zealand began their scouting of
areas, thankfully our young and extremely experienced Drew Fenney (Australian Team) arrived early
also and was able to scout and keep an eye on our Kiwi rivals!
Next to arrive to our shores was the laid-back and very talented Hawaiians, their team consisted of
Mark Healey Marnie Zukevich, Kapono Zukevich, GR Tarr and Manager Bill Ernst. Their priority was
to travel north for five hours by car and then travel by boat for a further 3 hours to the famous
Abrolhos Islands. Dave Bay, a local spearfisherman was kind enough to look after the Hawaiian team
throughout their stay. The team enjoyed diving at the islands and were able to shoot some
magnificent Spanish Mackerel and some great bottom fish. After two days, they returned to Perth to
get the low-down about the competition areas, and after providing them with information, fish ID
AUF Mission: Bring Sport, Conservation and Awareness to the Underwater World