Michael McFadyen's Scuba Diving - Inside Point Perpendicular
One of the problems with Jervis Bay (and a lot of dive locations) is the proliferation of names for the same dive sites. In Sydney, Pizza Reef is also called Fish Reef, Underwater Wilderness is also called The Gullies, Six Fathom Reef is also Simpsons Reef. At Jervis Bay it is even more confusing. The Whorehouse is also called The Labrynth and there are at least three Pyramid Rocks. There is the Pyramid Rock off south-east Bowen Island, Pyramid Rock off the middle of Point Perpendicular and the dive site I will describe below.
The northern headland of Jervis Bay is called Point Perpendicular. It was named in 1770 by Lieutenant James Cook, RN, as he sailed up the New South Coast in his famous ship HM Bark Endeavour. Point Perp runs east/west for a couple of kilometres. When it reaches the western end, it turns to the north at right-angles. On this corner, or just a little north, is this dive site. It has a large pyramid shaped rock which gives it its sometimes name. It is also known as Fish Rock! However, due to the confusing number of identical names, I prefer to refer to this site as Inner Point Perpendicular.
After anchoring anywhere north of the corner, drop straight to the bottom. Depending on how close you are to the cliff face, the depth will vary from five metres to 32 metres. To start the dive, head to the sand at 32 metres and go to the south. There is a very prominent reef and some small rocks. After a while, turn to the east and come up a bit before turning to the north-east. The depth will come up to 25 metres and then 20 metres in a couple of small walls. The fishlife in these areas includes yellowtail, silver sweep, one-spot pullers, girdled parmas and similar fish. At times there can be quite large schools.
From the 20 metre mark, you can gradually ascend to five metres where you will be right below the cliff face. This is a fascinating section of the dive. There are a number of caves to be explored. One extends back quite some distance in an easterly direction. This reef is located about 50 metres inside the corner.
One of the better dives at Jervis Bay, suitable for all divers, no matter their experience. Especially good in north-easterly winds and as a second dive. Also a great drift dive on an incoming tide.
|