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Thetford Reef

Thetford Reef, out from Cairns, is one of those spots on the GBR that really delivers. We've often found ourselves drifting along its western side, where the reef edge gently slopes down, the visibility consistently good, often pushing 20 metres even on an average day. It's a busy place, but not in a crowded, touristy way; more like a bustling city for fish. Our favourite dives here are usually in the late morning, after the initial rush, when the sun angles just right to light up the coral bommies. You'll see massive plate corals reaching out, forming overhangs where Scarlet Soldierfish hang out, their eyes like little red lamps. We've come across schools of School Mackerel here, cutting through the water in shimmering silver formations, and the occasional Tiger Shark cruising by, almost lazily. Keep an eye out for the smaller stuff too; the Orangespotted Gobies are always a delight, paired up with their shrimp. This is a reef that suits divers who appreciate a consistent, lively dive with plenty to see, without being overly challenging.