Actually, the guy diving with him today said they (professional divers) often dive with sting rays without any problems. They are quite placid. This just seems like a very unfortunate accident.
They just replayed an interview with him on Andrew Denton's show (Enough Rope) on the abc (
www.abc.net.au) from 2003. It was actually really interesting. I think he was just a hyper individual, who was really passionate about animals and animal welfare.
He will definitely be missed.
My thoughts go out to his wife and kids.