doug.deep

This the response I've given to the organisers about the rules:

I believe the rules are a little harsh on the following points:

1.Whether or a diver has dive/evacuation insurance is the business of the individual diver, not the contest organisers. I would say the same about insisting on whistles and safety sausages. If the organisers are concerned about safety sausages, they should supply them to the buddies - if they do that, there will be no real need for photographers carry them.

I have dived overseas in many places and have never been asked whether or not I have insurance or specific safety devices like safety sausage and whistle. I don't see why it should be any different for the contest.

2. The red and yellow card business seems a little silly and officious. I think the organisers simply need to state that the organisers reserve the right to disqualify divers who break the rules.

3. It is unreasonable to expect divers to show an up-to-date medical certificate. Once again, this is something that dive operators worldwide never insist on, and there is no reason to make a special case for a competition. I certainly will not be making a special trip to the doctor to get an up-to-date certificate.

I applaud the conservation rules, they are spot-on.

Cheers,
Doug

Hi all,

The organisers of the contest are concerned that the rules they've specified may be a little harsh - I'm inclined to agree. The rules can be viewed here: http://www.underwate....com/rules.html

Please take a look, and if you think they need to be changed you can provide feedback on this forum, or to Wayne Lovell at this email address: wayneandann@hotmail.com

Cheers,
Doug

There are still a few places left in the Timor-Leste Dive Photo Contest.  

East Timor is a very poor nation with a tragic recent history. It needs to establish a tourist industry to get back on its feet, and this competition is an important part of creating awareness and interest in East Timor as a dive destination.

There are five categories in the competition. The prizes for each category are: Ist Place: $US2500, 2nd Place $US1000, 3rd Place $US500. In addition, there will be 5 Honourable Mention prizes awarded, each receiving $US500.

As previously mentioned, photographers who have had work published and/or won or placed in a competition, will have their airfares and accomodation subsidised.

I was in East Timor last year. It is a fascinating place to visit and the diving is excellent.

For more information and registration: http://www.underwate...om/contest.html

In your [James's] photos...the star is always the marine life, and what always comes through for me is simply a love of that life. Of course they are always beautifully crafted photos too.

Your dead right there, Dave. James's work is classic wildlife photography, which is what I like about it too.

Beautiful shots!  Love the last manta.