When we mention sharks, there are usually two reactions: excitement or fear. Hollywood blockbusters and mainstream media have portrayed sharks as human eating machines; however, the reality is far from that.

From microscopic plankton to whales, the array of life on the reef is unlike anywhere else on the planet. While searching for the charismatic Great 8, what other hidden treasures might you find?

About 10,000 years ago, you could set out on foot from the mainland towards the horizon, and reach what are now the reefs and islands of the Capricorn Bunker group. Kangaroos and all sorts of native Australian wildlife bounced around, and indigenous Australians roamed the lands in harmony with nature. At the end of the last ice age, sea levels began to rise before stabilizing about 6,000 years ago. Corals began to settle on the underwater plateaus and slowly replicated themselves to form colonies, growing up towards the surface.

From our giant marine life who call the Southern Great Barrier Reef home, to the turtles who visit our backyard every year and our abundant farmland that feeds the nation, there are many simple ways you can be sustainable in your everyday life, helping us to preserve our natural surrounds for years to come. Remember, every bit counts!

The white sand beaches of Elliott Heads could give Whitehaven beach a run for its money! Paddle board through the river and inlet above sparkling white sands as rays and turtles flap their wings and flippers beneath you. Head over to where the rocks meet the water and don your mask, snorkel and fins for your very own inshore reef experience!