Reef HQ, Townsville

Reef HQ Great Barrier Reef Aquarium, nestled in the coastal city of Townsville, Australia, is the world's largest living coral reef aquarium and an ambassador for the Great Barrier Reef. This impressive facility provides a window to the reef, showcasing a plethora of marine life in a setting that replicates the natural wonders found in the world's largest coral reef system.

Established in 1987, Reef HQ serves as the National Education Centre for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, offering visitors an immersive experience that combines education with entertainment. The complex is home to thousands of coral and marine creatures, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles, all living in habitats that closely mimic their natural environments.

The aquarium's centerpiece is a 2.5 million-liter coral reef exhibit, which features a spectacular underwater viewing tunnel and a number of interactive zones. These zones allow visitors to learn about the delicate ecosystems of the reef and the conservation efforts in place to protect this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site.

Reef HQ also operates a successful turtle hospital, which treats and rehabilitates sick and injured sea turtles before returning them to the wild. This conservation initiative provides an invaluable service to the marine community and offers an educational aspect for visitors, highlighting the challenges these creatures face in the ocean.

Open year-round, Reef HQ offers daily tours, dive shows, and educational talks, making it an engaging destination for families, school groups, and marine enthusiasts. Whether it's marveling at the vibrant marine life from the dry comfort of the viewing tunnel or learning about the complex systems that support life on the reef, a visit to Reef HQ is both enlightening and unforgettable.