Skive Dive Society ~ Pentyrch & Pier 24/6/09

Two of our best skivers (Tad & Ernie) took themselves off to Brighton on Wednesday 24/6/09 to dive the Pentyrch and the Pier from Channel Diver. We were very lucky with the forecast not being right and the wind staying to a reasonable level.

Neither of us had dived the Pentyrch before. She is a British Steamer, carrying a cargo of coal and was sunk by UB40 on 18th April 1918. It is approx. 6 miles off Shoreham. The seabed was at 22 metres and in the middle is a very large boiler. The viz was 4-5 metres with a bit of plankton floating around. It is a very easy dive, plenty of nooks and crannies to explore and with the shallow depth plenty of time to do so.

The second dive was Brighton Pier. Another pleasant bimble. The seabed was covered in star fish who do lunch (some even bought their own fork).

All in all a very enjoyable skive.

Ernie

Seazones - Sunday 12th July - 2 spaces

Two spaces have become available on Seazones on Sunday 12th July. £32.00 for two dives + scones.

Already booked are:
1. Ernie
2. Tad
3. Chris P
4. Trez
5. Simon
6. Prometheus
7.
8.

If you would like a space please post a comment asap.

Ernie

Braunton Dive from Wasp on Sunday

Nothing ever seems to go to plan when trying to get out diving. Either the weather goes against you, the boat breaks down, you get a cold or the promised vis doesn't materialise. On this occasion the planned dives on Sunday were canned due to the charter boat being sold and the new owners having a change of mind about continuing with the booked charters. Thanks to the lads from Leybourne for the invite anyway and I am sure we will catch up again sometime soon.

But step in TWSAC and all was not lost for Ernie and myself. After last weeks great dive on the Scallop Wreck we were offered 2 places aboard Wasp one of TWSAC's members Ian's own rib for a trip out to the Braunton. Having checked that our Nitrox mix was suitable (just) for the 36m dive to the wreck it was all systems go.

After a very early drive down Ernie and I kitted up and joined Ian and other club 2 other club members for the trip out to the wreck and soon we were kitted up and Ern and I were first in and headed down to the wreck. The Vis was between 6-8m with plenty of light. Its been a few years since I last dived the Braunton and I had forgotten what a fabulous wreck this is.

A 4.575 ton 380ft British Merchantman, The Braunton lies at a depth of 36mtrs HW. She was sunk by the German submarine UB29 on the 7th April 1916. 10m. The wreck was carrying a cargo of ammunition and evidence of this can be seen littered amongst the wreck in the shape countless shells unfortunately for spidge hunters not the brass but the cast iron variety.

Wreck is full of life and the stern area sits relatively intact and roughly 10m high complete with a net which has been floating wrapped up and vertical for a number of years.

I had taken the decision not to take the camera in but soon regretted this once we had reached the wreck,never mind will have to go back again.

After about 30 mins it was soon time to pop up the blob and start for the surface and back to port .

We had planned for a second dive in the afternoon but there had been a problem with the other boat so this had to be canned but both Ernie and I were more than happy with the mornings adventure.

Thanks to Ian and Jamie from TWSAC for offering the places and the opportunity to dive this weekend at very short notice and prevented me from being a very grumpy moany old Tad.

Tad

Pool Session - Sovereign Centre, Eastbourne

The diving pool at Sovereign Centre , Eastbourne, has been booked for Merdian Divers between 20:00 and 21:00 on Wednesday 24th June.

Meet Car Park 19:45.

If you wish to attend please post a comment ASAP.

Ernie

Scallop Wreck Dive On Saturday 14th June

As a few of you know I have been pulling me hair recently due lack of dive time but on Saturday I was offered the chance to Dive a wreck known as the Scallop wreck but otherwise real name unknown as a guest of Tunbridge Wells BSAC.

With conditions looking near perfect I joined the Tun wells team at Newhaven and set out to the wreck site. with 7 Divers on board the trip out was comfortable and quick on a mirror calm sea ably piloted by boat handling trainees Rob and Jason (friends of old who most of you will know) guided by renowned wreck hound and TWSAC D.O Jamie Smith .

The wreck sits in about 35m of water and is up side down. TWSAC are trying to identify the wreck and with 3 video cameras between us the plan was also to film as much as possible (guess who managed to cock his attempt up).

On site the wreck was soon located and shotted and looking down the line it was going to be a cracker.

With Ian going in first to tie the shot into the wreck Jamie and I kitted up and were soon heading down to the wreck followed soon after by Derek and once Ian had completed his dive he would take over the helm releasing Rob and Jason for their dive.

The "Scallop" wreck sits as said earlier upside down on the seabed with the prop raised up similar to the Clodmoor and talking of props there is also a rather large radial aircraft engine complete with prop, probably WW2, laying on the wreck more than likely placed there by fishing boats after being caught in their nets as the wreck definitely looks more like ww1 vintage it was a pretty impressive site.

With 8-10m vis, no need for torches and full of life the dive was gorgeous and I could have stayed down longer than my time allowed. Jamie manage to find some pottery which when cleaned up may hold a clue to the wrecks true identity.

Rob and Jason later reported to have found an impressive swim through on the wreck which will be on my list if and when I get the chance to Dive her again.

All to soon it was time for a slow ascent to the surface and sunshine.

I did manage about 10mins of film after I realised that I switched the camera off but none of the footage gives the dive or wreck justice so I wont bother editing it but have taken a couple of stills from the footage as seen above to give you an impression of the dive conditions.

A big thank you to Jamie,Derek,Ian, Ruth, Jason and Rob from Tun Wells BSAC for the opportunity to dive with them, I Think I will be definitely be joining them again very shortly to dive one of the many unknown wrecks they have on their GPS.

It was also great to talk to some of my old friends who I bumped into whilst in Newhaven . All in all a pretty good day out.

Tad

T.R.Thompson Wreck Tour Dive with John Liddiard

Arrangements are in the process of being made for a dive with John Liddiard from Diver Magazine to do a wreck tour feature for the mag on the T.R.Thompson.

The dive will happen towards the end of July either in the evening of the 23rd or on the 26th depending on Johns schedule. We have been offered the opportunity to do the dive from the Tunbridge Wells BSAC rib as John is spending some of the time diving on their current projects.

There will be spaces for 4-5 Meridian Divers on the dive but this and definite date, times and cost will be confirmed nearer the time.

Weather and conditions permitting this should be a good one and will add to the T.R.T project.

Tad

English Heritage Maritime Archeology Unit

I am in the process of arranging a visit next Month from Alison Hamer from English Heritage Maritime Archeology Unit. Alison has kindly agreed to come and give a talk on the protected wrecksites off the Sussex Coast and how we can support and be involved in some of the planned project work in the future on these sites. Alison recently featured in Diver Magazine (June issue p 98)

This could be a great opportunity for divers who have an interest in preserving some of our maritime history.

The talk will be open to all interested divers and date and time will be posted here once confirmed.

Tad

Meridian Divers Meeting 3rd June

With the Berwick Arms now under new friendly and very accommodating management it looks like we will be meeting there for the foreseeable future and after introducing ourselves to the new owners last night we soon got the meeting underway with plans being made for the rest of the summer and beyond.

Sheila will be circulating the minutes asap but needless to say the plans are varied and exciting with lots of extra diving opportunities and social stuff on the cards all we need now is some good weather.

As mentioned earlier the new landlords of the Berwick are very accommodating and will lay on a spread if we let them know prior to meetings.

Roll on the summer

Date for your Diaries!

With the sun shining and the evenings getting longer, we thought it was about time we started thinking about . . . . . . . . . . . .Christmas!!! It's time for you all to block out your diaries on Wednesday 16th December 2009 for another awesome Christmas Bash. We are going back to the Berwick as it has changed hands and looking good!

Menu is not yet finalised but I will keep you informed. I will gather definate numbers a bit nearer the time!

Meridian Divers Meeting ~ 7.30pm Wednesday 3rd June

Just a reminder that the next MD meeting will be held at the Berwick Inn , Berwick at 7.30pm on Wednesday 3rd June .

Off a Land Farne Away ~ 23rd & 24th May 2009

After dark dives, abandonned dives, more dark & no viz dives, a chap's mind can wander in search of a little more fun! And where the mind wanders the fins are sure to follow. So it was that Simon & I found ourselves booked upon the Sussex Scuba trip to Farne Islands off the Northumbrian coast , north of Newcastle ( Why , aye mon , we were in the land of the Roaming Robbo's).
To be fair it's a fair old run to Seahouses where we were billeted in the Old School House (recommended by the way!) . Of course, in hindsight, going the length of the land on a Bank Holiday was a bit of a daft idea, it took about 9 hours to get there. But driving back on the Sunday afternoon missed the crowd and took about three hours less!

After the British Diver's traditional prayers over a a full english breakfast we were at the Harbour by 8.30am to board "Glad Tidings VII" , a massive hard boat with substantial diver lift, skippered by Billy Shiel MBE. It was a low tide so a lot gear (there were 22 divers on board!) was lugged down the steep stone steps (luckily the tide was higher in return!) It was the biggest UK dive boat I have been on and so there was space for all ( well, just!). From the Harbour it was a short run to the Farne Islands. The day started sunny and warm with flat seas, but by the surface interval it had become dull and overcast.

Our first dive was on Knivestone, in suitably seal infested water! We cut across the shallow 'gut' of the island/rocks where seals darted about then dropped to deeper water to check-out the wreck of the well-broken Abyssinia. Viz was in the order of 5 to 6 meters , fair for the area, excellent by Sussex standards! The only drawback was it was COLD! At 9 degrees at the surface and 8 degrees at depth, it was only a matter of time before the hands said "Enough!". In our case that was 47 minutes! Subsequent dives were shorter as our resilience to cold water ebbed!

The Second dive was on Blue Cap, sadly no seals seen underwater on this dive , but in the shallows there was plenty of kelp and furher down there were excellent displays of soft corals. being so close to the mainland we were back at Seahouses shortly after 2pm, where a visit to a local hostlery helped pass the time until we found ourselves gathered around a large table for dinner!

Sunday morning was a cracker, the sun was blazing but there was a cool sea breeze. We decided that perhaps the most defining characteristic of the Farnes were the seals , so it was to be a shallow seal dive! So we went back to Knivestone and spent out whole dive no deeper than 5 metres. And , yes, we were buzzed repeatedly by seals, one stopping to fin-nibble! Mind you the critters were so quick they were hard to capture in the camera! I think we also appreciated that extra degree of warmth in the shallows! The sunshine lasted all day making the surface interval much more enjoyable. During the surface interval we cruised by other island looking at the colonies of the many seabirds including cute little Puffins!

For the last dive we visited Crumstone a small out crop of rock . Diving to about 18 metres the visibility was better than the shallows and there was an abundance of soft corals & urchins, though little fish life (save a few reasonable sized wrasse). On this dive we found a group of Dog Whelks each about 130mm long. When the cold got the better of us we ascended and in no time were back at Seahouses loading the car in the sun for the run home.

A good long-distance week-end with all the right things in place, a few degrees more warmth would have made it absolutely perfect. Definately worth a visit.

Meridian Mutts

Update - the next walk is now Saturday 30th May and not Sunday 31st May Original post has been amended.

Horsted Keynes is the chosen walk for this day. Looking forward to seeing my friends again.

Poppy

Fortuna Wreck Dive ~ 10th May 2009

It must have been a better day than it was a dive, 'cos the next morning the feeling of mild sun burn reminded me that a few hours spent at sea on a reasonably sunny day is a good way to catch the rays! I think we all, that is Simon , Tad, Ernie, Trez, Sean & 2x Chris, probably spent slight more time in the sun and slightly less time under water than we predicted and hoped for!

It was a fair enough day for a ride out to the Fortuna aboard SEA ZONES, a light swell and at the start a little overcast. On arrival the fishermen on another boat above the wreck did their best not to look annoyed at all this blasted scuba-divers and even 'stood aside' to let us shot the wreck and get in. It didn't look too encouraging from the surface with plenty of particles in the water and a very short view of the shot line. It was about 30m to the highest parts of the wreck but by about half-way down it was torches on and keep an eye on your buddy!

On reaching the wreck it was pretty damn black, with about a metre's visibility. With some monofilament line lying around the place it had the feel of 'how long will it take to get caught-up' ! But we moved carefully and looked around to check for snagging risks. All the same , it was hardly one of our better dives and Simon and I only managed about 2o minutes before thinking 'that's enough'! One of those dives (for us) in which you think that sending-up the buoy is a highlight! Still on reaching the surface and the day had improved and with Mick's famous buttered scones & tean on the aft-deck beckoning it was only going to get better!

We decided to 'can' the planned second dive in favour of a gentle run back to Newhaven and a visit to the not-so-greasy-spoon that now 'substitutes' for the old and lamented 'Coral Cabin' . What's it coming to ? A distinct lack of damp undersuits and biker leathers in the café these days! I said it was good way to catch the rays , and so it was, as we met-up with old buddy Ray and talked about some of our mutual acquaintances in the weird world of diving!

Meridian Mutts

Hello my people. Would any of my friends canine or human like to accompany me on another walk in the country on Saturday 30th May (weather permitting)

If I can make two suggestions:

Alfriston and Berwick, starting and finishing in Alfriston, distance approx 4 miles and takes about two and a half hours. This can be extended by stopping at the Cricketers Arms en route or the Church of St Michaels and All Angels.

or

Horsted Keynes (Bluebell Railway). 5 miles, approx two and a half hours. Field and woodland track (No Pub, but could bring picnic)

If you are interested in joining me please post a comment with your choice of walk.

Poppy

Swanage Canned !

Just a quick note to say the weekend has now been completely canned due to very high wind`s even though there was a faint chance of getting in tomorrow.
Just like to say thanks to those who booked on and for bearing with the to and fro phone calls over the last couple of days.
As nearly all the boats have been called this weekend were going to Vobster tomorrow for a dip if anyone would like to join us.

Swanage weekend 16-17th May

Hi to all
This is a post for you that are coming to Swanage this weekend and can't make Ocean view wednesday evening for a quick meeting .

Firstly the camping is at Woodhyde campsite , you're allowed onsite after 11am and must leave your pitch by midday Sunday , although if you want to prolong your visit I'm sure they'll be accomodating, as mentioned before to all we've taken 1 electric hookup for charging torches,phones,light`s kettle and most importantly fridge for cold beer,if you want one call and ask (electric not beer)

http://www.woodyhyde.co.uk/ for address and other details of site ie prices.
.
The boat "Smooth hound" http://www.diversdownswanage.co.uk/

The dives, Saturday-08.45am ropes off firstly the Kyarra all info here:-http://www.divesitedirectory.co.uk/dive_site_uk_england_south_coast_wrecks_kyarra.html
second dive 13.00pm a drift dive will call to find out what depth etc (just checked its up to us max depth 24m)

Saturday afternoon/evening : dive the Pier, have a look around, back to tent for a BBQ and a few beers up to you guy's n gal's.

Sundays dives: 09.00am ropes off to dive Aeolian Sky details here http://www.divesitedirectory.co.uk/dive_site_uk_england_south_coast_wrecks_aeolian_skye.html 2nd dive scallop drift/Black Hawk bow.

SS Black Hawk (Bow Section)

After so much High Explosive has been used on this site it is a bit of a scrap heap. Individual features can be identified but there is no overall feeling for the size and shape of the vessel, unlike the stern. One of the features that is in evidence is a boiler that has been shattered open revelling all its innards. There is meant to be an anchor on a length of chain on this site but we have yet to find it. The nice thing about this site is that it is in 18m not 48m. So diving it on a rich Nitrox mix give`s you just about unlimited dive time, which makes a nice contrast to the dive on the stern. (Lifted from BSAC site)

Captain Dangerous Says Hello

Debrief Done! Red Sea Reviewed

The April 2009 Red Sea liveaboard trip was 'debriefed' over (far too large) a selection of savoury & sweet snacks and other refreshments at Arlington Village Hall on Wednesday 6th May. Most of our dive trip group were able to make the debrief and so too did some others , checking -out what they missed!

The group reviewed videos taken by Ernie and edited by Tad , then watched the 'official' trip video produced by Susie (one of our Instructor /Guides on the MV Whirlwind). Terry kindly produced copies of the video for those who wanted their own to take home.

After the videos, still images taken by Sheila , Ernie, Simon, Linda, Terry, Gary and Chris were viewed and copies of each persons 'portfolio' was shared with those wanting copies. Now everyone has literally hundreds and hundreds of shots with which to torment their friends & family!

It was a pleasant evening and good to catch-up with members of the "22 Club" and of course those in the "Sub 22 Club" !!! Fingers crossed for more successful dive holidays & debriefs in the future!

Meridian Mutts

Poppy B would like to thank Poppy M and Sizzle (AKA Twizzle) and my human friends, Chris, Sue, Jim, Tad, Niki, Tracey, Ernie & Sheila for a most exhilarating walk yesterday. Also, thanks to Chris for rescuing me from that angry sheep.

Looking forward to our next walk when I hope that Tibor and others will join us.

Poppy B

Meridian Mutts

Poppy would like to know if you are up for a walk on Bank Holiday Monday. She said she would like to do Firle Beacon, down to Charleston Manor (stopping for tea and cakes) then back to the Ram Inn at Firle. She has a cunning plan so that you do not have to climb to the top of the Beacon.

She said she thought about a starting time of 13:30.

If you do not have a dog Poppy will be your guide for a fee of cocktail sausages or a fine cheddar cheese (not the cheap stuff)

Please post a comment if you are interested and I will ring you to finalise the details.

Sheila

Seazones - 10th May 2009

One space has become available on Seazones on Sunday 10th May 2009.

Please post a comment if you are interested in taking the space.

Ernie

Mind Blogging Colours!

Yes, yes and thrice yes! I have been playing with the blog's colour scheme and am grateful, Sara , for the feedback on what is (and what is not) a good idea! So I have made some more changes but I suspect like all great (!) works of art it may never be truly finished. It's a constant quest for excellence , well, either that or it's 'try that and see if it works!' I don't think my task is yet complete!

Seazones - 10th May 2009

Can everyone booked on Seazones on 10th May please post a comment on their preferred wreck.
1. Ernie - City of Brisbane
2. Chris P - City of Brisbane
3. Tad - City of Waterford
4. Trez
5. Prometheus
6. Sean - City of Brisbane
7. Simon - City of Brisbane
8.

Ernie

Seazones Skive Dive Society

Mick has circulated an Email saying he is now going out week days in May. We would need at least 6 for the boat to go out. Anyone interested in week day dives, please post a comment.
Ernie

Meridian Mutts

I would like to know if there are any dogs out there who would like to join me and my staff on some walks in the countryside on non diving days. Just lately I have been taking my staff on some rather nice walks - Ashdown Forest, Bluebell Railway, Ditchling Beacon, Firle Beacon, Battle to name a few.
It would be nice to have some friends to accompany us on some of our walks.
Any one interested canine or human, please post a comment.
Poppy (Benson)

Bucklands Lake Dive

Click on images to enlarge

One good advantage to living where I am in kent is that within 15 minutes drive there are 2 inland dive sites which is pretty handy when all is blown out at sea.
So it was that I found myself at Buckland Lake Kents newest inland site on Sunday.
Buckland is run by Steve and Linda Potter from Polaris Diving and a very friendly outfit they are too. Diving is by pre book only to keep numbers to a managable level and prevent overcrowding although the site is big and within a nature reserve in an old disused quarry.

I had popped down on Saturday to see the site and spoke to Linda who said that if I didnt have anyone to dive with on Sunday that wouldnt be a problem as there was always someone from their club willing to get wet.

On Sunday morning I turned up at the lake and was buddied up with Simon and Chris Polaris club members. The kitting up area is concrete which kept equipment nice and clean and there are small changing facilities plus handy benches to assist with putting your kit on which was handy as I was trying out my new twin set up and had to use up some Nitrox in my tanks.

Entering the water is from either a floating concrete pontoon or a stairway into the water.

I carried out 2 dives with my Polaris buddies and visited the inwater attractions such as the Great white Shark, Aircraft speed boats and cabin cruisers there are plans for more to be submerged in the near future.

The downsides to the site were that there was no obvious marine life and like all inland sites the bottom is easily stirred up destroying the vis.This was the case on Sunday with a lot of training going on the vis on the attractions was soon gone although if you stayed away from these there was still 4-5m.

The site has depth levels ranging from 4m to 15m which and I maybe wrong makes it the deepest inland site in the South East.

After diving there is a nice large raised decked patio with tables and chairs where you can sit in the sun and buy coffee, tea and snacks if you want filled rolls these can be pre booked. The site also has a small shop selling the usual odds and ends plus a compressor for airfills although there is no Nitrox at the moment I understand that this will be coming in the future.

There are also trolleys so that you can wheel your kit up and down from the carpark approx 50m from the kitting up area.

Inland sites will never hold the same attraction as sea diving for me but as inland sites go the atmosphere and friendliness of those involved at Buckland takes some beating and for training or just going for a dive when there are no other options this site is perfect.

I certainly enjoyed my Billy No Mates day out at Buckland Lake and will certainly be back. Cost for the day is £10 cert cards also need to be shown The site is open everyday except Tuesdays for more info checkout their website at http://www.polarisscuba.co.uk/


Big thanks to Steve and Linda Potter the site owners and Simon and Chris from Polaris Dive Club for making me feel welcome and for the dives.

Tad

Post Red Sea Debrief ~ Wednesday 6th May

Just a REMINDER of the Post Red Sea Debrief being held at Arlington Village Hall on Wednesday 6th May.

Use this link to see the Post BELOW for more info !

Don't forget ....as if you would....this is a eat & drink what you bring event, so bring some 'spares' and we'll all share 'em round!

Boat Diving on Channel Diver ~ Bookings

Dive bookings:-

Wednesday 24th June (Pentrych)
1. Ernie
2. Tad

Tuesday 7th July (Alunia) ~ CANCELLED DUE TO POOR WEATHER (6/7/09)
1. Chris
2. Ernie
3. Tad

Sunday 19th July (Jaffa) ~ CANCELLED DUE TO POOR WEATHER (18/7/09)
1. Ernie
2. Chris
3. Tad
4. Simon

Friday 24th July (TRT)
1. Ernie
2. Tad

Thursday 13th August (Oceana & Air Show)
1. Simon
2. Ernie
3. Tad
4. Chris

Please enter a comment if you are interested in joining us on the above dives.

Ernie

Dives on Channel Diver

I have picked out some dive dates which do not clash with other Meridian Diver events:

Wednesday 24th June - Pentrych - 10 spaces. (Brighton). £42.00
Tuesday 7th July - Alunnia - 10 spaces (Eastbourne). £42.00
Wednesday 8th July - Oceana - 7 spaces (Eastbourne). £42.00
Friday 10th July - Fortuna - 10 spaces (Brighton). £42.00
Sunday 19th July - Jaffa - 6 spaces (Brighton). £45.00
Fridy 24th July - T R Thompson - 9 spaces (Brighton). £45.00
Thursday 13th August - Oceana & Air Show (Eastbourne.) £45.00
Friday 14th August - Pottery wreck & Air Show (Eastbourne). £45.00

If any one is interested in any of these dives, please post a comment in the usual way.

Ernie

Plymouth Weekend 18th & 19th April ~ Pics

Plymouth Weekend 18th & 19th April

Well what a great weekend diving and great company too. On Saturday the sun stayed in but the diving made up for it. The first dive was on the James Egan Lane what a great wreck a bit like the Carnatic in Egypt. It's 23m to seabed vis was 5-7 m. Lots of fish life and loads of anenomes. Then after hot pasties for lunch on the top boat MV Explorer of to do the Scylla. It's 28m to seabed what a nice big ship lots of plumnose anenomes and dead mens fingers vis 5-8m but for me it just had no feeling to it but still a nice dive.

Well Sunday the sun came out to play we made are way out to do the Persier what a nice wreck 10-15m vis loads to see could had stayed down all day but air going fast had to come up that has to be one of my top U.K. dives! More hot pasties hard work this diving! Then on to the Glen Strathallen 17m to seabed what a great bimble to end on 10-15m vis. The B&B we stayed at was the best iIhave been to and Steve and Sue know how to look after you and the pub over the road sell great beer and good food (£6-7) . Can I just say thanks to Matt for all his hard work and all that for£135. Well anyone on this trip in June is in for a great weekend of diving. Oh and thanks to all for your great company. Hope to have some pics soon

Gentle sea bimble anyone?

Hi all, time to start easing myself back into rufty-tufty UK sea diving. I notice on http://www.mulberrydivers.com/ there are seven places on their rib departing 11:45 for
the Far Mulberry dive site. Anybody fancy joining me? Oops! Thanks to Tad for pointing
out the fact that I failed to mention the date. Doh! It's Sunday, 3rd May.

Thistlegorm Clips filmed By Ernie

More Red Sea Trip Shots!

Some more shots courtesy of Sheila & Ernie

Bow of the Thistlegorm (above)

Hull of the Whirlwind (above)

Tracey & Therese practice launch DSMBs (above)

Meridian Diver Whirlwind Team at Gatwick (above)

Soup Dragon BBQ

first off sorry for the fact that the soup Dragon dive didnt happen this was due in part to a number of factors that conspired against me and have now been partially resolved.
In light of this I am now planning the Soup Dragon BBQ and dive. Instead of the planned soup there will be Dragon Burgers.

The BBQ place in Kent and preceeded by a dip in a local lake so as far as the diving is concerned the weather wouldnt have an impact.

The dates I am looking at would be towards the end of May so please let me know of your availabilty as It would be good if as many people could come as possible. Ernie I know weekends are difficult but it would be great if you Sheila and Poppy could make it also.

Looking forward to your responses

Tad

Dive on Sunday Anyone ?

Looking at Sea Zones website there may be places available for a dive on Sunday is anyone interested ? we need a minimum of 6 divers cost will be £32 wreck and drift.

Ernie's Red Sea Selection

Swanage Dive Trip ~ Sat 16th & Sun 17th May 2009

There are a couple of places now available on this trip arranged by Matt at Ocean View. Before going to the Red Sea I had advised Matt that I couldn't go as I lost my dog sitter - but due to sinus problems while away, I can no longer dive for the time being anyway.

Chris and Trez have also had to drop out so it'd be great if there are a few of you out there that want to do these great dives. This is Matt's posting to give you the details: Please post a comment or contact me direct if you can fill the places.

hi all, I have 1 space left on my trip with Divers down at Swanage for 2 days diving on their hard boat "SMOOTHHOUND". The weekend`s diving is for 12 divers and the itinerary is as follow`s Sat 16th may ropes off 08.45am to dive the KYARRA then a 2nd dive in the area then Sun 17th ropes off 09.30am to dive the AEOLIAN SKY + 2nd dive the cost is £85 pp which is payable up front . Accomadation and travel i will leave to you to sort out as i think there are a few different ideas about where to stay and i for one am going where it`s cheapest so i have found a campsite a mile from the seafront to stay or some are finding b+b`s to stay at.

Links to sites http://www.diversdownswanage.co.uk/
http://www.woodyhyde.co.uk/prices.html

Red Sea ~ Thank You

What a lovely surprise, a man has just arrived at my door laden down with beautiful flowers. I had no idea what you naughty people were up to and it is very much appreciated. Thank you all very much for your kind thoughts.

Post Red Sea Debrief & MD Meeting ~ Wednesday 6th May

The post-Red Sea Debrief and next Meridian Divers meeting will be held on

Wednesday 6th May , at ARLINGTON VILLAGE HALL , Arlington!

All are welcome to attend (not just those on the trip!) and that, of course, includes all the new buddies we met on M.Y. Whirlwind.

The basic plan for the meeting (apart from usual 'business') will be:-

1. Bring your Red Sea Photos (ideally on a USB Memory Stick) , so that a huge gallery can be created and distributed (distribution may have to be done later due to the number of photos & conbined file size!) . The larger capacity the memory stick the better!

2. Watch the Red Sea Trip Video.

3. Distribute copies of the Red Sea Trip Video (if you would like a copy of the Video please let us know / add a comment to this posting ASAP to allow time to produce them!)

4. Possibly watch some of Ernie's video of several dives , including the Thistlegorm.

5. Partake of some light refreshments!

6. Sign-up any log books that need signing.

MD back from The Red Sea!

This is a 'quickie' post as we only got back to the UK late last night but as the week was extraordinarily successful it derserved a few immediate words.

The Tornado Fleet "M.Y. Whirlwind" provided us with an excellent platform , with the largest cabins (with separate 'en-suite' showers), the best and most varied food and most spacious dive deck I have experienced in my Red Sea liveaboard travels. With Nitrox 'on-tap' and sufficient spare & large (15L) cylinders to meet every need, a Course Director (Thomas) and another instructor (Susie) as 'resident' tour guides and a caring crew we were almost guaranteed the wonderful time that we had.

Special thanks to Shiela for doing all the organising. Organising dive trips is often , if not always, a lot of work , trying to accommodate everyones personal preferences and can sometimes be a very thankless task. So well done Shiela for seing it through and bringing it off so well. We had a truly harmonious trip and really enjoyed the company of five divers who we had not before (Justin, Chris, Alan , Mick & John) . Everyone got on superbly well. The week was something of a record-breaker for those of us who have been on a number of previous liveaboards in the Red Sea, twenty-two dives were offered and many of us (the newly formed "22 Club") did them all! Twenty-two dives in a week can be quite tiring especially with the morning briefings at 6.30am! So it was even more credit to those on board who had constant smiles on their faces. We all made some new friends this week.

All the usual wreck suspects were on the intinerary, the Carnatic, the Gubal Island Barge, the Dunraven, the Kingston (aka Sarah H) , the Ulysees, the Ghiannis D , the Chrisoula K, the Thilstlegorm and the Rosalie Moller. We also dived many reefs and on all the Tiran Island Reefs (Thomas, Gordon, Woodhouse & Jackson).

Literally thousands of photographs were taken and no doubt a few will be posted on this blog (lets' not forget the 2009 MD photo competition) as soon as we can all check them through and add posts & comments. There will be a Red Sea Trip Debrief at which there will be a 'photo-share' and , hopefully, a showing of the 'official' trip video!

Please post, add photos & comment at will! There is so much more to say & show! And, to our new dive buddies, check the blogs header (top of screen) to see how the comment process works!

For now, thank you to all who came for making it such a special week.

Small Summary of Own Dives:~

22 Dives Completed on Trip (of which 12 were Wreck Dives)

1082 minutes (18hrs & 2 mins) underwater

Average Dive Time 49 minutes (Max allowed time: 45mins for night dives, 60mins for others)

Sundays T.R.Thompson 91st Anniversary Dive Report

March 29th is always going to be an important date on my dive calender as it is the anniversary of the sinking of the T.R.Thompson and after last years success with project on the wreck there is a strong commitment to continue with the project and this years diving season started with the dive last Sunday on the 29th March with a dive on the T.R.T .

With hopes high we met at Newhaven to board Mick Luff's Sea Zones for the trip out to the wreck site in glorious warm spring sunshine with Divers from MD, Eastbourne BSAC and GUE making up the dive teams for the day.

On arriving at the site we joined 2 other local dive boats and a shot had already been dropped and we were invited to use this, thanks guys. The big disappointment was the water colour, brown and full of plankton so the underwater conditions didn't look promising and we were right.

Kitted up and in the water we descended into the coffee coloured water, there was at a push about a meter viz and it seemed to take forever to reach the wreck in the pitch black. Even in torch light it was difficult to actually see anything due to the backscatter from the plankton in the water so it was a bit of a fumble around the wreck more than a dive but it did give me a chance to silently pass on our regards to the lost crewmen.

There comes a point when you question the wisdom of diving in conditions such as they were on Sunday purely for safety reasons as the wreck is covered in discarded fishing tackle as one of the divers on our boat discovered , so after 29 minutes we called it a day and started our ascent to the surface and for the name legendary sea scones provided by skipper Mick. We also phoned (T.R.T relative) Norman Jack from the boat to tell him about the dive.

We are now looking forward to the better conditions to continue with the project work and plans are underway for some more exciting developments on the Thompson later in the year, watch this space. Catching up with old dive chums both on the water and in the cafe after the dive it was a great day out hopefully the omens are good for this forthcoming season.

Tad

Update - T R Thompson - 29th March 2009

Times for the anniversary dive on TRT are:-
10:45 Meet Newhaven Marina
11:30 Ropes Off

High Tide 13:40.
Dive Depth 34 metres Approx.

I will text Saturday evening to confirm on/off. At the moment Mick said it looks good.

Ernie

Meridian Divers Meeting ~ 18th March 2009

Special thanks to Sheila for the MD meeting of the 18th March! It was really good to see the MD Red Sea Diving Trip (April 2009) Team and , of course, to collect our flight tickets ! It all seems that much more close when you have the tickets in your hands!

There are one or two 'liveaboard virgins' in the Team and a number of 'liveaboard veterans' (some with the scars to show from it!) so it was good to see that those with a few 'travel tips' sharing them with those with a few questions! The important thing to remember is that when the big guy at the front bangs the drum we all pull on the oars at the same time...and if we don't, or if someone isn't pulling hard enough, the even bigger guy with the unusual taste in leather accessories reminds us by techniques handed down from one generation of sadists to the next! All very simple really. If the drum stops or if both of the big guys aren't looking just get your dive kit on quickly and get into the water!

The Tony Backhurst boat "Whirlwind" offers nitrox and 15 litre tanks. I can remember back into the mists of time when all users of 15 litre tanks would have been regarded as some kind of abnormal gas-guzzling weirdos to be ridiculed. Of course times haven't changed, except that they have on this boat and with this Team! It looks as though nitrox fills and 15 litre tanks are the individual choice of preference! It's good to see that diving has moved-on to embrace choice.

Well done to Sheila too on allocating all the accommodation in advance and letting everyone know where their cabin is before they set foot aboard the boat. In motor racing the 'Le Mans' start is famous but its not so great a technique for getting a cabin, especially when some of the 'racers' set off before the signal!

Four dives a day are offered but you don't have to do them all if you don't want! It's often argued that a little 'break' from diving during a liveaboard week is a good idea. It's definately a good idea if you are not feeling in top form at any point!

It has been indicated that we will have the opportunity to dive the Rosallie Moller , this is a deep dive famous for its condition & glass fish! There is a rather nice little video from those deep dive guys GUE :-

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ND_x-3CNAjQ

Whatever route / intinerary we follow I am sure we will have the opportunity of doing some great diving . Looking forward to the photo-share session when we get back too!

Serious Fun ! RNLI DVD

Just taken a look at the latest RNLI safety DVD "Serious Fun" , it's well made and jsut as you would expect from the RNLI - it's free!

The DVD has sections on a variety of watersports , including diving. The section on diving includes pictures of 'Swanage Diver' and includes an interview with PADI Course Director Steve Axell who is also a RNLI crew member.

There is always room to take a fresh look at safety and we should all make time to do so regardless of how much diving experience we have. The RNLI is entirely funded by public donations and readily (and too frequently) come to the aid of divers in emergency situations. With this in mind it is sad to recall that some of the most experienced divers I have met have held the attitude that the RNLI is too well funded! An odd view to be sure but may be they have become a little wiser with time! I became an RNLI member when I took up diving and have been a member every year since then.

I would recommend having a look at the DVD, you can find out more about it on :-

www.rnli.org.uk/seriousfun

Perhaps will find a short slot to show the diving section at a MD meeting on our return from the Red Sea. I hope this little 'promotional' piece helps raise awareness, there are many examples of how the MD blog has slowly , but surely improved the divers 'lot' , so again, let's not forget those who help us!

Sovereign Centre, Eastbourne

Diving Pool at the Sovereign Centre, Eastbourne, has been booked on Tuesday 24th March 2009 between 20:00 and 21:00. Cost of hire is £22.00 which will be devided by however many use the pool. Meet me in the car park at 19:45.

If you are coming can you please post a comment as soon as possible. Don't forget to bring your third party insurance.


Come and wash the dust of winter off before the Red Sea.

Ernie

Plan B for Sunday 29th

Just a thought if by chance the T.R.T dive is cancelled due to weather does anyone wish to undertake a plan B to an inland site. Either Wraysbury leybourne or maybe the new lake at Strood Buckland which would need to be pre booked. Any suggestions ?

Red Sea Trip ~ 2nd to 9th April 2009 ~ Update

Tickets have arrived. I have sent you all an Email regarding distribution of tickets and Q & A session.
Not long now.
Whoopee !
Sheila

Swanage Trip~16-17th May 09

Hi all,
Been a while but now my harddrive is working again.
Just to let you know that this trip is now booked and to remind you to have a look and book your accomadation for this weekend,the majority are camping but i know some are looking for suitable b+b`s if you know of any good one`s please post so others can book aswell.
Hope everyone`s well look forward to seeing/diving with you soon.

Meridian Divers Meeting ~ Wednesday 18th March

The next Meridian Divers Meeting will take place at 7.30pm at the Berwick Inn on Wednesday 18th March 2009.

With the Red Sea liveaboard trip starting on 2nd April , this meeting will give anyone a chance with last minute queries to shout out!

Nitrox computer

Has anyone got any experience of different nitrox computers. There are several cheap ones on the market, but what are the good buys?

T R Thompson Anniversary Dive 2009

Sea Zones has been provisionally booked for Sunday 29th March to enable Meridian Divers to pay our respects once more on the anniversary of her sinking. Anyone wishing to dive this day please add a comment ASAP. We need to let Mick know as quickly as possible if we can fill the boat.

1. Ernie
2. Jim
3. Tad
4. Chris P
5. Graham
6.
7.
8.

Ernie

Red Sea Shore Based Week ~ November 2009

Just sounding-out at this stage! Drop me an email if you are interested in a week of boat dives in the Red Sea based at a hotel? Possibly Marsa Alam or Taba but other options possible!

Selsey Lifeboat Station ~ Saturday 25th April

Had to go to Tenerife for a few days last week for bank stuff. I managed to sneak-off for a morning shore dive on the Wednesday. Cuttlefish, octopus, a biiig friendly trumpet fish and lots more.
Great stuff, anyway, it's made me get my diary out to sort out a UK shore dive. Mulberry Divers are doing a marshalled dive re the above, meeting time is 14:30. Anyone care to join me?

1). Simon
2). Chris-P
3).
4).

Meridian Divers Social Evening at Ocean View ~ 18th February

You have got to hand it to Ocean View at Lancing , they have got very comprehensive facilities for divers but arguably their greatest asset is a a warm welcome!

Not only is Ocean View a 5 star PADI IDC Centre but it has :-

* an on site 4 metre deep training pool
* All levels of training from novice to instructor run in spacious classrooms
* On-site servicing by Asset trained technicians including wetsuits and drysuit repairs
* Nitrox and Air to 300Bar
* On site diving and recreation club including fully licensed bar
* Boat charter available
* Access to an inland (all year) open water dive site (Brighton Marina)

I might be wrong (and some one will no doubt correct me if I am) but I don't think that any other dive centre in Sussex (possibly the South East) has all of those facilities and having now personally used of all the facilities it fair to say that they will take some beating!

But as I said above all of those wonderful facilities (the pool is REALLY warm!) are secondary to an unsurpassed friendly and welcoming atmosphere. And, yes the bar prices are very reasonable too! Graeme & business partner Sue made the Meridian Diver contingent very welcome as did the OV members present. A very pleasant evening followed as the exchange of dive stories (and other tall stories) were exchanged and some ideas discussed. In between serving the drinks and welcoming guests Graeme was showing new kit to divers and sorting out some servicing and repair jobs. Well done to our hosts for a jolly good social evening.

A special thanks to from my chum who I took for a try dive in their pool a couple of weeks ago, he was very impressed with the facilities and I think , he may just have been hooked!

Holiday Discounts ~ Cornwall & Corfu

Debbie & Stuart are pleased to be able to offer any member of 'Meridian Divers' a 10% discount on the following:-

Cornwall - holiday cottage in picturesque coastal town of Fowey. Sleeps 4/5. Pets and children welcome. Open all year round. For more information go to www.seashells-fowey.co.uk or telephone 01323 897010 / 07765 903165

Corfu - Greece - Town house in heart of traditional Greek village - known as the 'Balcony of Corfu' due to its panoramic views. Large balcony. Sleeps 4/5. Nearest beach 10 mins drive. For more information go to www.corfuhouse.co.uk or telephone 01323 897010 / 07765 002080

Meridian Divers ~ Social Evening 18th February 2009

Just a reminder that we will be meeting at Ocean View at 7:30 for a social evening on Wednesday 18th February 2009.

Seazones 10th May & 12th July 2009

I have booked Seazones for Sunday 10th May (high tide 12:55) and Sunday 12th July (high tide 15:11). No decision has been made where to go. If you are interested in either of the dates please post a comment and any preference of what to dive.

10th May 2009
1. Ernie
2. Tad
3. Chris-P
4. Therese
5. Simon
6. Tracey
7. Sean
8. Prometheus
Reserve 1.
Reserve 2.

12th July 2009
1. Ernie
2. Tad
3. Chris-P
4. Therese
5. Simon
6. Tracey
7. Sean
8. Prometheus
Reservce 1.
Reserve 2.

Ernie

Take-Up The DIVER Buoyancy Challenge!

Pulled this off DIVERNET for anyone that's interested-sounds like fun!

How good is your underwater buoyancy?

DIVER are looking for Britain's most neutrally buoyant divers, and if you've got what it takes, you could be in line for some tasty prizes and a good day out. You also get to show off your skills in the 6m-deep, 10 x 12m-square tank where underwater sequences for major films. You'll be photographed in there too!

Britain's first DIVER Buoyancy Challenge is organised by Mavericks Diving/Ocean Optics, which is based at the Underwater Studio at Basildon in Essex, and runs diver training and specialist underwater photography and buoyancy clinics there.

The event takes place over the weekend of March 7/8. We expect it to be a lot of fun, but it also has its serious side. The DIVER Buoyancy Challenge experience is free. You will be allocated a time slot, briefed and weight-checked, and then put through an underwater obstacle course of increasing complexity. You may start with a straight midwater stop, fin pivots, hovering and controlled ascents and descents. You will progress to passing through diamonds and tunnels at different levels, perhaps stopping to play underwater 'skittles' or 'darts' before finning through a slalom course, and so on.

It's even possible to generate currents in the tank. The highest-achievers will deserve their accolades. Prizes already confirmed for the highest achievers include a Seaquest Pro QD men's or Pearl women's BC with i3 technology, donated by Mavericks Diving; a Fuji camera and housing from Fuji; an Inon wide-angle lens from Ocean Optics; a day on the Underwater Studio set during a filming project, donated by the studio; a day of personal underwater photography coaching from leading exponent Martin Edge; a place on a Jamie Watts marine biology day; and two Precision Buoyancy Workshop places with Mavericks.

There will be more prizes, too, and the event will provide the basis for a major feature in DIVER later this year, as well as a presentation at the London International Dive Show. We're looking for divers trained by any agency, including commercial, police or military as well as sport divers, and at any level at or above the equivalent of a PADI Open Water/BSAC Ocean Diver. You'll need your own dive-gear.

FIND OUT MORE:-
Join in the fun by calling Steve Warren on 01268 523786, or email mavericks@mavericksdiving.co.uk find out more about Mavericks Diving and Ocean Optics, visit www.mavericksdiving.co.uk and www.oceanoptics.co.uk and for Underwater Studio information go to www.actionunderwaterstudios.com

Shipwrecks and Dive Sites of Sussex and Kent

As discussed at the last meeting a new blog site has been created to act as a resource for everyone that dives of the coast of both Sussex and Kent. The idea of this blog is that clubs, individuals and others that are interested can add to the blog to build a useful site containing info on diveable shipwrecks and divesites in Kent and Sussex

www.divingsussexshipwrecks.blogspot.com

Thank You Sheila!

Now that I and many others have handed over lots of money, I would just like to say a big 'Thank You' to Sheila (and Ernie!) for all their work in organising what I am sure will be a great holiday. I know there's been lots of emails flying about what with the change of airline, dates and accomodation and having to collate lots of information on behalf of us all. I would just like to say how much I appreciate you taking this on board - if it'd been down to me I think I would've lost all my hair by now!

Now all that's left to say is roll on April!!

Meridian Divers Meeting ~ 29th January

A very productive MD meeting took place on Wednesday 28th January , Hon Sec Sheila has produced the notes which will be circulated very soon. In the meantime here is a brief flavour of the outcomes:-

1. A Pre-Red Sea Dive Trip social will be organised to give everyone the chance to mingle with buddies on the trip and to ask any questions! We hope to offer some pool practice for those with new kit or rusty skills! Still some places left in this trip , these are now open to anyone through Tony Backhurst. The last night of this trip will be spent in a hotel (for added pre-deaprture comfort) . No-one has to share a room , unless they want to :-) !

2. A summer dive trip to the Channel Islands will be explored.

3. Ernie will be posting some Seazones availability on the blog.

4. Tad will be confirming the daye for the Soup Dragon Dive.

5. Tracey will be arranging a G0-Cart Racing day at Filching Manor.

6. The next meeting will take the form of a social at Ocean View on 18th February

7. Only one place left on the Swanage Dive Trip. (Plymouth fully booked).

8. Beach BBQs are planned for the following Sundays : 24 May, 26 July, 13 September.

Worthing Wall Drift Dive ~ Sunday 8th February

4 Spaces available on this dive this Sunday (8th Febuary) for a drift dive on the Worthing Wall. Meet 08.15 am at Lady B Marina, Shoreham. Diving with ILESDIVER . Max depth 14M. Suitable for Open Water Divers and upwards, £20 per person.

Call Ocean View to book on to this dive 01903 767224

Dog Racing at Hove Track ~ Saturday 28th March

So here it is , a night out organised by Ocean view at Hove Greyhound racing track, all from Meridian divers are invited to attend on Saturday 28th March.

What you get:-
1. Admission
2. Racecard
3. Basket Meal
4. Two drinks
5. £1 bet on the tote

Any more details can be found at http://www.brightondogs.co.uk/

Cost £12 per person (if you take your own dog and it wins you get a discount!!)

Please call the shop to book and pay for this night out 01903 767224

NAS Intro Course ~ Saturday 28th March

This was put on Ocean views forum by Paul Grinyer who has sorted this one out;

Following the excellent talk give by Tad on the TR Thompson I have been in touch with The NAS to get them to run a course at the club for us. Initially we're proposing to do the Intro Course on the 28th March 2009.

We need a minimum of 10 to run the course and if there are enough people interested then we can run a second course on the Sunday 29th March 2009.

Here are the general details for the course:
An introduction to foreshore and underwater archaeology . This is the entry-level course to the NAS Training Programme and is aimed at introducing nautical archaeology to divers and non-divers, and promoting their interest in the subject. It provides a broad-based view of the subject by covering a wide range of topics.

The objectives of the course are that participants should:
1. Have been introduced to the basic principles and scope of nautical archaeology.

2. Appreciate the importance of our nautical heritage and the need for the recording, protection and preservation of the underwater heritage.

3.Have been given the necessary knowledge to undertake a basic pre-disturbance site survey The emphasis during the practical sessions is on surveying and recording.

In addition, the theory component stresses the need for the conservation and preservation of the underwater cultural heritage. The format involves a one-day course, which is conducted by approved tutors and instructors. Certain parts of the course can be adapted to suit the special requirements of the individual groups taking part.

The minimum diving qualification level for those taking part in the pool exercises is CMAS 1-Star or equivalent, e.g. BSAC Ocean Diver, SAA Open Water Diver, or PADI Open Water. The 'Introductory' course is not examined and participants are provided with a certificate of attendance only.

The course cost will be £60 per person. We need to get an idea of numbers as soon as possible so if you're interested please call Graeme at the shop 01903 767224.

This really should be an excellent and interesting course, particularly to those who are interested in wreck diving and the history of our local wreck sites.