For the first time ever, we’re hosting a women’s Instructor Development Course (IDC) at Dive Spear and Sport 1770 state of the art, SDI 5 Star IDC Centre on the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Led by two kick ass industry women; Kate Barker, Owner and SDI Instructor Trainer at Dreamers Dive Academy, and Carmen Bolton, Owner and SDI Instructor at Dive Spear and Sport 1770. Together, Kate and Carmen will provide the training, insight, and mentorship you need to thrive as a female SDI Instructor in today’s industry.
Becoming a dive instructor is an incredible journey, but entering a traditionally male-dominated industry comes with unique challenges. This course has been designed with those challenges in mind, offering additional tools, guidance, and peer support to help women confidently carve out their path in diving.
Over eleven days, you’ll complete the full Instructor Development Course and Exam while also taking part in exclusive sessions focused on women in business, leadership, and industry empowerment. Learn directly from two experienced professionals who have navigated the highs and lows of the dive world, and come out stronger for it.
By the end of the program, you’ll leave not only certified but also empowered, supported, and ready to launch your career as a professional SDI Instructor
We may be able to help you get there! Contact us at info@dss1770.com.au or call (07) 4962 1218 to discuss your current level and what’s needed to be ready for this course.
We can guide you through the best travel options to Agnes Water / 1770 and suggest accommodation to suit your budget.
Let’s just say that’s secret women’s dive business. But we can promise it’s all about equipping you with the mindset, tools, and strategies to thrive as a dive professional.
Absolutely! You’re welcome to add extra diving days on the Southern Great Barrier Reef, just ask our team.
Kate is the Owner and Director of Dreamers Dive Academy in Timor-Leste. With a wealth of industry knowledge, Kate has15 years of experience in the dive industry, including 14 years as an instructor, 12 years managing dive shops, and 8 years as a dive business owner. With a degree in Marine and Freshwater Biology and a genuine passion for both diving and education, Kate has dedicated her career to developing herself and the divers she mentors.
She is business-savvy, an excellent instructor, and a highly skilled diver — but above all, she truly loves what she does. You’ll enjoy learning with Kate because she’s committed to helping you become the best instructor you can be, while keeping the experience fun, engaging, and educational.
Owner and Director of Dive Spear and Sport @ 1770, Carmen is the sole owner and operators of Dive Spear and Sport. With over a decade in the industry, she has built and led multiple dive centres and operations — from retail and training centres to full-scale reef tourism with a site stewardship focus. Carmen holds a Master’s in Business Communications, is a certified SDI Instructor, and is a Master Reef Guide appointed by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. She brings an unmatched combination of business acumen, field experience, and passion for empowering the next generation of female dive leaders.