29 September 2009

A passionate reef charter boat operator and diving legend has today been recognised with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) announcing a reef named in his honour.

Ron Isbel was a charter boat operator whose great love and commitment to the Reef's wise use has been formally recognised with a previously unnamed reef (Reef No 22-108) now bearing his name.

GBRMPA Chairman Russell Reichelt said Ron Isbel, who passed away last year, had an immense knowledge of the Reef, in particular the Mackay/Capricorn area.

"Ron was a well respected operator and an avid promoter of wise use of the Reef," he said.

"Ron's reef knowledge was highly sought after and his vessel was regularly chartered by film and documentary crews and researchers who appreciated his insights.

"He travelled to many other reefs world-wide and it was these trips that strengthened his love and commitment to the Great Barrier Reef.

"Those who knew Ron personally and professionally admired his dedication to the Reef."

Ron Isbel Reef is located in the Mackay/Capricorn Management Area of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park – it is Reef No 22-108 located at Lat 22.065°S Long 152.632°E.

The reef was officially named after an assessment under a formal process and principles for reef naming. The submission was assessed by the GBRPMA, the Royal Australian Navy – Australian Hydrographic Office and the Queensland Department of Environment and Resource Management.

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