About Reef HQ Aquarium
Reef HQ Aquarium is the National Reef Education Centre for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority located on Flinders Street in Townsville City, Queensland. Opened in 1987, it housed the world's largest living coral reef aquarium with a 2.5 million litre coral reef exhibit. The aquarium showcases Great Barrier Reef ecosystems, marine life and coral reef research, serving as a major educational and tourism attraction for the region.
Visitors guide
When open, visitors can explore indoor aquarium exhibits centred on a large living coral reef tank, predator tank, turtle hospital, and themed galleries explaining Great Barrier Reef ecosystems and marine park management. The facility is located on Flinders Street in central Townsville near Ross Creek. Exhibits include living coral, reef fish, sharks, rays and turtles with interpretive displays, viewing tunnels and talk presentations. The aquarium is currently temporarily closed for major redevelopment.
Key highlights
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World's largest living coral reef aquarium with 2.5 million litre coral reef exhibit
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Predator exhibit featuring sharks and large reef fish
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Turtle Hospital for rehabilitation of sick and injured marine turtles
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Great Barrier Reef education centre operated by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority
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Underwater viewing tunnel and coral reef viewing areas
History of Reef HQ Aquarium
Opened on 24 June 1987 as the world's largest living coral reef aquarium and the National Reef Education Centre for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. Developed to showcase and interpret the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area and to support reef education and research.
Culture & Context
Serves as the national education centre for the Great Barrier Reef, promoting awareness, understanding and stewardship of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area through public education and interpretation
Route
| By air |
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