This dive site, Nine Mile Reef, is a prominent offshore reef located in Australian waters, characterized by its reef top at 10 meters descending to a sandy bottom at around 30 meters. It functions as a significant ecological hub, providing shelter and feeding grounds for a wide array of marine species. While specific historical details or a unique navigation story are not provided, its offshore nature suggests it's a natural formation primarily explored for its rich biodiversity and dramatic topography rather than historical events.
The reef is adorned with numerous hard and soft corals, creating a vibrant ecosystem. Divers can expect to encounter diverse reef fish in the shallower sections. The site is particularly renowned for its larger inhabitants, including pelagic fish, various sharks (wobbegongs year-round, leopard sharks in summer, grey nurse sharks in winter), turtles, stingrays, eagle rays, and occasional manta rays. This makes it a prime location for encounters with charismatic megafauna.
Nine Mile Reef offers excellent diving opportunities throughout the year, with specific seasonal highlights for shark enthusiasts: leopard sharks are more common in summer, and grey nurse sharks during winter months. Its moderate depth profile, with an average of 11 meters and a maximum of 22 meters, makes it accessible for a range of divers. Freedivers will also find the depths and marine life suitable for exploration. Divers should be prepared for potential moderate currents given its offshore location and the presence of pelagic species.
