This year’s PADI AWARE week at Oceans 5 Gili Air was filled with inspiring conservation efforts and activities aimed at raising awareness about marine protection. The week came to a powerful close with a captivating presentation on sharks by Master Instructor Waz. The event, which took place at the dive center, was the perfect way to wrap up a week dedicated to the environment and marine life, leaving participants with a renewed sense of wonder and responsibility toward the ocean.

A Week of Conservation at Oceans 5
PADI AWARE week at Oceans 5 Gili Air was dedicated to encouraging environmental responsibility among divers and the local community. Throughout the week, Oceans 5 organized a series of activities, including beach and reef cleanups, where volunteers from both the diving and non-diving communities gathered to make a tangible difference.

The beach cleanup at the harbor of Gili Air was one of the highlights. Volunteers collected debris, plastic waste, and other pollutants that have accumulated on the shoreline and in the surrounding waters. These cleanup efforts are part of Oceans 5’s ongoing commitment to protecting the Gili Islands' ecosystem and preserving the natural beauty of the area for future generations.

"We want to thank all the amazing volunteers who took the time to join our beach and reef cleanups," said the team at Oceans 5. "Your efforts have made a real impact on the health of our oceans, and we are grateful for your dedication to conservation."

Shark Behavior: An Eye-Opening Presentation by Waz
The grand finale of PADI AWARE week was an engaging and informative hour-long presentation about sharks, led by Oceans 5's very own Master Instructor, Waz. With extensive experience in South Africa, Mozambique, and Fiji, Waz has worked closely with a wide variety of shark species, from the more common reef sharks to the larger and more intimidating great white sharks. His knowledge and passion for sharks shone through as he shared stories and insights into these misunderstood creatures.

Waz began the presentation by focusing on the importance of understanding shark behavior, not only for safety purposes but also to debunk myths that often surround sharks. "Sharks are not the mindless killers many people believe them to be," Waz explained. "By understanding their behavior, we can appreciate them for the critical role they play in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems."

The presentation covered how divers and snorkelers can recognize certain shark behaviors, helping them to interact with these incredible animals safely and responsibly. Waz highlighted the need to observe and respect sharks in their natural habitat, emphasizing that many species are far less dangerous than their reputation suggests.

Sharks in the Gili Islands and Beyond
Moving from general behavior, Waz turned his attention to the specific sharks that divers are likely to encounter around the Gili Islands. Two of the most commonly spotted species are the white tip reef shark and the black tip reef shark. These sharks, which often swim gracefully around the shallow coral reefs, are frequently seen by divers and snorkelers alike.

Waz shared some key identification tips for these species, pointing out how their size, shape, and coloration can help divers tell them apart. White tip reef sharks, with their distinctive white-tipped dorsal and tail fins, are often seen resting on the ocean floor during the day. Black tip reef sharks, on the other hand, are more active swimmers and can be recognized by the black tips on their fins.

Beyond the reef sharks, Waz also discussed other shark species that are occasionally spotted in the waters around the Gili Islands, such as the grey reef shark. For those seeking more adventure or looking to explore beyond the Gili Islands, Waz delved into encounters with larger and more formidable sharks, such as bull sharks, tiger sharks, and even the awe-inspiring great white sharks.

Personal Encounters and Experience
Throughout the presentation, Waz shared personal stories from his time working with sharks in some of the world’s most famous shark hotspots. His experiences as a scuba diving instructor in South Africa, Mozambique, and Fiji have given him the opportunity to work with a diverse range of shark species, and these firsthand accounts added a thrilling dimension to the presentation.

Waz spoke about diving alongside bull sharks and tiger sharks in the cold waters of Mozambique and South Africa, where he learned to respect their power while also appreciating their grace. He also recounted his time in Fiji, where he worked with reef sharks and had the unique experience of observing sharks up close during baited dives.

"I’ve been fortunate to dive with some of the most incredible sharks in the world," Waz said. "Each species is different, but they all share one thing in common: they are essential to the health of our oceans, and they deserve our respect and protection."

Inspiring Both Divers and Non-Divers
The shark presentation by Waz was not only informative but also inspiring. It captured the attention of both divers and non-divers, sparking curiosity and appreciation for sharks and their role in marine ecosystems. Attendees walked away with a deeper understanding of how to safely interact with sharks and a stronger commitment to protecting these incredible creatures.

Oceans 5 Gili Air hopes that the knowledge shared during this presentation will encourage divers to become advocates for sharks and marine conservation. The dive center continues to promote education and awareness through its courses and events, working to inspire a new generation of ocean ambassadors.

A Commitment to the Future
As PADI AWARE week at Oceans 5 Gili Air came to an end, the team reflected on the success of the week’s events. The presentations, cleanups, and conservation efforts have not only made a difference in the local environment but have also left a lasting impression on all who participated.

Oceans 5 remains committed to its role as a conservation-focused dive center, and events like PADI AWARE week are just one way they continue to support marine protection. By engaging the community and offering educational opportunities, Oceans 5 is helping to ensure a future where sharks and other marine species can thrive in healthy, protected ecosystems.