Date: Sunday, March 23rd, 2025
As I sit down to write this, I can hardly believe that I’ve already completed my fourth week of classes in Perth, Australia! Time has flown by so quickly—I have been getting into my new routine, figuring out my schedule, and getting to know most of the other exchange students. Between lectures, assignments, and exploring my surroundings, the past month has been a whirlwind of excitement and adjustment.
Amidst the busyness of academics, I was thrilled to take a break and experience more of what this incredible place has to offer. This weekend, I had the pleasure of joining one of the day trips organized by the housing department.
We departed Perth at 7am sharp to drive down South to the Busselton. It is the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere! (Sounds familiair? The Prison I visited in Fremantle was also the longest prison block in the Southern Hemisphere! I'm noticing a theme here lol)
It is also home to one of only six underwater observatories in the world. This unique attraction allows visitors to descend eight meters below the ocean’s surface, where they can observe a mesmerizing world of marine life thriving among the jetty’s pylons. Schools of fish, vibrant coral formations, and even the occasional passing stingray make it a must-visit spot for nature lovers and divers alike.
Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to experience this incredible underwater observatory firsthand! The organizers weren’t able to secure enough tickets, and I happened to be one of the unlucky few who had to sit this part of the adventure out. It was definitely disappointing to miss out on such a rare opportunity.
On a more positive note:
Earlier in the day, I had the chance to get up close with local wildlife in a more hands-on way—through fishing! I spent a solid two hours casting my line, enjoying the peaceful rhythm of the ocean waves and the occasional tug on my rod. To my surprise, I kept reeling in the same type of fish over and over again—the Western Striped Grunter. At least, that’s what my quick internet research suggests! The fish’s distinct golden stripes and spotted markings seemed to match the descriptions I found, but I’m no expert, so I could be mistaken. Regardless, it was an exciting experience to interact with the local marine life firsthand, even if my catches weren’t particularly varied.
I want to reassure anyone who might be concerned—I didn’t just catch the fish for fun and then toss them aside! Once I reeled them in, I made sure to handle them carefully and release them back into the water unharmed. I know that ethical fishing practices are important, and I always try to be mindful of treating wildlife with respect. So, if it brings anyone peace of mind, rest assured that every fish I caught swam away safely, probably a little wiser (and warier of bait) than before!
Finally, we come to the charming little train that transports visitors to the very end of the Jetty, where the underwater observatory awaits. Moving at a leisurely pace, this train ride offers passengers the perfect opportunity to take in the stunning coastal views and appreciate the serene atmosphere. Along the journey, you'll also hear fascinating stories about the Jetty’s rich history, including how dedicated locals rallied together to preserve this beloved landmark for future generations.
Thanks for reading! 'Till next time.
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