Great Barrier Reef Oceanarium

Overview The Great Barrier Reef Aquarium, formerly known as Reef HQ, is Australia's National Education Centre for the Great Barrier Reef. Managed by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, its purpose is to make the reef accessible to people of all ages and abilities. The facility is currently closed to the public for a significant redevelopment project and is expected to reopen as a new, contemporary facility in 2026.

Prior to its closure, the aquarium was known for being the world's largest living coral reef aquarium. It featured a 2.5 million-litre open-air coral reef exhibit and a 750,000-litre predator exhibit. The centre also housed a dedicated turtle hospital for sick and injured marine turtles. The exhibits aimed to showcase the biodiversity of the Great Barrier Reef through displays of coral, fish, sharks, and other marine creatures.

Highlights

• A 2.5 million-litre living coral reef exhibit, open to the elements to mimic the natural environment.
• An underwater viewing tunnel providing perspectives of both the coral reef exhibit and a predator exhibit with sharks and large fish.
• A dedicated Turtle Hospital that cared for and rehabilitated sick and injured sea turtles, with daily talks and tours offered.

Community Sentiment (The "Vibe")

What parents like: Visitors frequently mentioned the knowledgeable and friendly volunteers, the educational value of the talks and tours, and the impressive scale of the main coral reef exhibit. The turtle hospital was often cited as a meaningful and informative part of the visit.

What to watch out for: Not specified in recent reviews due to the extended closure.

Logistics & Tips

Best for: All ages.

Facilities: When open, the facility provided a café, gift shop, toilets, and was noted to have full wheelchair and pram access.

Note: The Great Barrier Reef Aquarium is closed for redevelopment and is anticipated to reopen to the public in 2026.