Meet the site
Split Bommie is a compact but distinctive rock formation within the sheltered Nursery area on the western side of Julian Rocks, easily recognised by the narrow crevice or split running through it that gives the feature its name. Sitting in the same gentle 5-12 m depth range as the rest of the Nursery, it is an easy add-on for divers already exploring that side of the island rather than a stand-alone destination, and it is frequently pointed out by instructors running open-water course dives in the area. The split itself creates a small sheltered channel that concentrates fish life in the same way larger trenches do elsewhere at Julian Rocks: bullseyes and small schooling fish shelter inside, wobbegong sharks are regularly found tucked along its base, and the surrounding boulders carry the same rich covering of sponges and soft corals typical of the Nursery more broadly. Turtles pass close by on their way between resting spots, and the site's shallow depth and negligible current make it comfortable for less experienced divers and useful for extended, unhurried photography. Split Bommie does not carry the drama of the island's larger swim-throughs at the Cod Hole or Cray Cave, and it is not marketed as a headline site in its own right, but its combination of easy access, shelter and reliable small-scale fish activity makes it a worthwhile few minutes on any Nursery dive. Because it sits within the broader Nursery mooring area rather than having its own dedicated mooring, most divers encounter it as part of a wider drift around the western side of the island rather than a fixed destination.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Julian Rocks – Split Bommie is recorded as Pinnacle/Bommie in Tweed & Byron Bay. The listed access is boat. Confirm the actual meeting point, route and permission to visit; a map pin does not establish any of these.
Topics flagged by the stored research
These are questions prompted by the existing notes, not a verified or complete hazard assessment.
- Current and timing
- Ask how the operator assesses the current window for the actual route. Historical tide notes are not a departure instruction.
- Other water users
- Ask about vessel activity, exclusion areas and the agreed surface arrangements.
- Planned depth
- Confirm the intended route and training requirements; the recorded maximum is not a target.
Historical access notes exist for this record, but have not been independently verified for current use. Request current directions from the operator or site manager rather than following an old entry description.
Questions, answered
Is Julian Rocks – Split Bommie suitable for my certification?
The record lists Open Water. That does not establish suitability for every route or day. Share your training, recent experience and equipment needs with the operator and ask about the specific proposed dive.
Can I book Julian Rocks – Split Bommie through YouDive?
YouDive is an independent research directory. Contact an operator directly to confirm whether it currently runs the trip, the inclusions and the booking terms.
What you might see
Wobbegongs, schooling bullseyes, turtles, sponges and soft corals, small reef fish
Location
A low bommie within the sheltered Nursery area on the western side of Julian Rocks, split by a narrow crevice that shelters resident fish, popular with course students and photographers.
Before you make plans
Conditions, access and operator schedules can change. This is a location guide, not a dive plan. Ask a local operator about current conditions and suitability for your training and experience.
Sources & further reading
sundive.com.audiveplanit.combyronbaydivecentre.com.auRecord updated 26 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.