Bluey the Groper

Clovelly Beach before Gordon’s Bay (Cloey / Thomo’s for locals) became popular, was infamous for being the home of this giant blue wrasse the locals aptly named “Bluey.”

Locals had coined “Bluey” as far back as the late ’80s and early ’90s.

The tales of this Bluey are many, but the arching history here is not unlike that of Tim Winton’s novel Blueback (newly released as a film). So, if you’re a fan, then a snorkel here is worth it!

‘Bluey’ was unfortunately taken out by a spearfisherman in 2002. Around the same time, the area saw a steep incline in popularity and also attracted a lot of rock fishermen. The Groper population was being targeted, which eventuated in a huge public outcry. Thankfully, some clever folk decided on the creation of the Aquatic Reserve.

This reserve stretches from Bronte to Coogee, with a smaller zone of no Groper fishing/spearing set between Clovelly and Gordon’s Bay. This ultimately saved the Groper population and made way for the next Bluey in the reserve to step up and take the reins.

Time well spent

The years I’ve spent between Clovelly and Gordon’s Bay are countless.

I learned to swim in Clovelly and spent the rest of my life between Clovelly, Gordon’s Bay, and Coogee. When I finally decided to begin taking images underwater, I began unintentionally documenting the aquatic reserve. So fortunate, really, simply being active in the area over so many years has created an extensive library of what lives below and above the waters, and a cast of Groper characters that I’ve watched grow over time.

That all being said, my observations are that Clovelly and Gordon’s Bay each have their own dominant male, so two “Blueys.” No need to chase or touch them—both will want to come and investigate what you’re up to if you can manage to stay still at the bottom for a while.