Photo courtesy Dave Newcombe.
Joao has been an integral part of our Let’s Go team since June 2015. As our lead dive instructor and shop supervisor, you’ve probably seen him around before, but we figured it’s time you got to know him a little better.
Born and raised in Brazil, Joao moved to Australia in 2008 when his girlfriend started her PhD at the University of Newcastle. A former business student, he soon found a love for the ocean, ditched the suit and tie for a wetsuit and mask, and has been climbing the PADI ranks ever since taking his Open Water course in 2009. Although he’s now been to Fiji, Vanuatu, Palau, and Papua New Guinea, some of his favourite dives have been at Pipeline right here by the shop. “It’s got heaps of macro stuff and I love taking photos there,” he says.
When he’s not in the water, Joao can usually be found with a guitar in his hands (his next gig is January 16th at The Foghorn in Newcastle!). He’s also developed quite the reputation as a grill master, cooking up more than 20 kilos of meat for our recent Christmas BBQ and Club Dive.
Looking back at 2015, one of Joao’s favourite memories was looking face-to-face with the Grey Nurse sharks at Broughton Island for the first time. “It’s a unique experience when you see that school of fish open up and there’s a shark right in front of you. It’s a powerful animal but so peaceful.”
Having logged close to 700 dives, Joao’s goal for 2016 is to hit the 1000 mark (and become a permanent resident!). He hopes to see you out in the ocean soon!