As we have reported a little over a week ago, Shawn Heinrichs is the recipient of this year’s Sea Hero of the Year award. Both Scuba Diving Magazine and Oris watches sponsored the award and Shawn was presented with a large check in the amount of $5,000.

The Wetpixel team of Abi, Adam and Alex headed down to see Shawn collect his award. Alex Mustard commenting:

“Promoting conservation is probably the most important use for any underwater images. But Shawn does so much more: directly campaigning for conservation, raising awareness and, more importantly, funds and working on the ground to put the money to the best use. Not only did he immediately donate his $5,000 award directly towards a patrol boat for the marine reserve in Misool, Raja Ampat, but he was also campaigning for dive companies at DEMA to match this funding and pay for the whole boat here and now. Such a deserved award. We’re very proud that Shawn is part of Wetpixel.”

Here at Wetpixel we fully support Shawn’s efforts. Consider this a call out to the industry to match his Sea Hero award and reach the goal of $115,000 needed to purchase a ranger boat for marine reserve border enforcement.

Congratulations Shawn!

Tuesday 1 November: Pre-show set-up.
Wednesday 2 November: Booth visits.
Thursday 3 November:Booth visits.
Slideshow of images from the Wetpixel/DivePhotoGuide Pool party.
Friday 4 November: Booth visits
Saturday 5 November: Booth visits
Slideshow about the “people of DEMA”
DEMA 2011:Final thoughts and conclusions.