Page 25 - Fiji Traveller 2024 Issue 6

effects of marine protected areas.
Shark diving activities in Fiji also contribute significantly to
the country's GDP, providing a sustainable alternative to shark
fisheries.
The book sheds light on the pivotal role played by Beqa
Adventure Divers (BAD) in establishing Fiji's first National Marine
Protected Area. Through sustainable ecotourism practices, the
Shark Reef Marine Reserve became a reality in 2014.
Tom commended the founder, Mike Neumann, for his vision About Tom Vierus
and determination: "I have the utmost respect for his endurance, Tom is an environmental
determination and drive." photojournalist, filmmaker
Tom is inspired by the efforts of and marine biologist.
leading scientists, BAD founder Originally from Germany, he
Mike Neumann, and a shark is based in Fiji throughout
feeder, who he has most of the year, where he
runs Pacific Media House, a
photo and video production
company.
His work is largely centred on marine and terrestrial
conservation, climate change, and communicating
scientific topics in a visually appealing way.
Spreading environmental awareness, inspiring
conservation efforts and driving positive change with
his photographs and films are the underlying goals
of all his work. He is a member of the International
League of Conservation Photographers as well as
the Ocean Artists Society, and his films and photos
have been awarded in numerous international
competitions.
You can follow his work on
@tomvierus
interviewed for
the book. He expressed tomvierus.com
admiration for those who turn
vision into reality and actively contribute
to conservation efforts.
The book, carefully curated from
approximately 100,000 photos taken over the years, aims to
showcase not only the typical images of sharks but also the
behind-the-scenes efforts, including food preparation and
scientific research.
"If I had to quantify the amount of time spent on sorting and
editing images, it would likely be days, if not weeks - it is definitely
a big part of any photographer’s life!" said Tom.
"I want to make people see the beauty of our planet but
also the fragility of nature and how much has been and still is
being destroyed. I want to make people care, and I would love
everyone to do little bits in their lives to either alleviate pressures
on the natural environment or to even actively pursue to protect
it."
Looking ahead, Tom is involved in several exciting projects,
including a long-term multimedia story on the street dog situation
in Fiji. He remains committed to using his photography and
filmmaking skills to raise awareness and inspire sustainable
living and conservation efforts globally.

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