Getting up close with nature

You know when someone has found their calling when you ask them the best aspect about their job and they respond “there are too many good things to choose”.

It’s not hard to see why Kimberley Kayaking Tours operator Gregg Davey feels this way. He gets to catch some great fish, paddle around in the beautiful Indian Ocean, and gets paid for it.

Mr Davey is something of an action man. Over the years he has coached tennis, surfing, abseiling, rock climbing and kayaking. He has lived in Broome for 15 years working mainly as a primary school teacher.

“I grew up in coastal towns in NSW where I hardly ever left the water,” he said.

“I’ve been paddling for 30 years; it has captivated me since my teens as a freshwater canoeist and kayaker.

“I tried fishing from a kayak almost as an after-thought and have been absorbed by its many pleasures ever since.”

About six years ago, Mr Davey said he realised kayak fishing was booming around the world and seized the opportunity to start a part-time business, balanced with his teaching role.

“It seemed like the perfect opportunity for me to continue my teaching career while having a part-time business that would keep me fit, leave me time for my wife and two young kids and that I really enjoyed,” he said.

“We created the first kayak fishing licence in Australia.”

Getting out on the water opened up the beauty of Broome, he said.

“I think out on the water you get to realise what is so special about Broome, its stunning scenery and abundant marine life are just exceptional.

“Except for special events, we take out a maximum of five clients at any time. This ensures a personalised service. The kayaks glide along in silence with the clear water sliding beneath you.

Rather than scaring the marine life away, creatures sort of stare back at you in mild surprise.”

Mr Davey said the experience of getting up close and personal with nature has been unforgettable for clients.

“Some clients who choose to wet a line end up whooping and hollering with excitement as they are being towed along by a rampaging tuna, mighty barramundi or other local bullies…they leave with a big smile on their faces.

Mr Davey said his most amazing experience was when a whale laid its pectoral fin across the back of his kayak, very gently.

“It stayed there and looked at me, eye to eye, for about a minute.

It was a very powerful experience,” he said.

Over the years, Mr Davey has seen the business grow and develop.