Late last year we received an email from a new shark and marine conservation cause, Friends for Sharks, offering us a free talk about sharks as part of their world tour.
“Friends for Sharks is a marine conservation cause working to support charities and increase worldwide awareness of the plight of sharks”
Friends for Sharks was set up by Kathryn & Nicholas, both experienced great white shark wildlife guides, scuba diving instructors and marine biologists.
Of course we said yes and eventually their tour bought them to Wellington for our club night.
We met early for a BBQ dinner before settling in for the main event.
After introducing themselves and why they chose to set up Friends for Sharks last year, they then tested our knowledge of various shark species and what makes them unique. Apparently Claire is the first person so far who has correctly identified the Epaulette Shark.
Having spent over 10 years working as Great White Shark Guides in South Africa and having met over 250 sharks Kathryn & Nicholas introduced us to some of their favourite Great Whites, and described their different personalities and characteristics.
One of things discussed was the portrayal of sharks in the media and on YouTube with their fantastic headline sand how that builds a negative and fearful image of sharks. This fear is not evident in the younger children who describe sharks as awesome, interesting, cute, fast and friendly.
We were their 51st event of the tour and they have spoken to over 5000 people of all ages and backgrounds.
They have 4 more countries and a lot more presentations to give and we wish them all the best for the tour and their fundraising.
Find out more with www.friendsforsharks.com