David Strike wrote:

> It was shortly after this - on the homeward stretch - that I became
> separated from Janet and Julian.  Although the plan called for a quick
look
> around and then surfacing to regroup, we hadn't allowed for the surf and
our
> proximity to the rocks. I swam to seaward before surfacing briefly, (after
> Janet and Julian had done likewise!) and, because the boat launching ramp
> was only 100-metres or so away, quickly descending and allowing the rush
of
> water to whisk me up on to the concrete.

Interesting sequence of events.  A pretty clear case of "the risk you didn't
plan on" and how it can affect even the most experienced of divers.  I doubt
I would have done as well under the same circumsances.  Then again, I doubt
I would have been in the water under such conditions.  Living in a diver's
paradise has gone a long way toward turning me into more than just a warm
water wimp.

> At this point, I realised the disadvantage of carrying a camera!  Holding
> the camera away from the rocks and concrete, I was tumbled and toppled all
> over the place.  Janet and Julian managed a far more graceful exit onto
the
> beach  itself!  :-)

Even in the best of times, boat ramps here are dangerous.  They all grow a
slime that makes the best of greases appear sticky in comparison.  A few
divers and many boaters have been injured as a result.  Glad you and your
camera survivied.  8^)

> Nevertheless, it was still good to get wet!  :-)

I can only wish for as much.  Winter is here in full force.  The winds are
up, seas are high, and it's cold enough to freeze the balls off a brass
monkey.  OK, so it's not that cold compared to what most of the world sees,
but it's still cold to us.

Lee