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Melbourne’s Sea Life aquarium has undergone a major transformation, with the Merlin attraction’s Oceanarium undergoing an AU$9m redevelopment to turn it into the bioluminescent Night on the Reef exhibit
Tom Anstey | Planet Attractions | 11 Jan 2024
Night on the Reef presents underwater creatures with a bioluminescent backdrop Credit: Sea Life Melbourne
Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium’s Oceanarium has undergone a major transformation, with the Merlin-operated attraction reopening as the brand new Night on the Reef exhibit.
An AU$9m (US$6m, €5.5m, £4.7m) project, Night on the Reef sees the aquarium’s 24-year-old oceanarium reimagined as an ecosystem exploring the world of bioluminescence under the sea.
Populated with tropical fish species, sharks, eagle rays, guitarfish, sea turtles and more, the 360 degree habitat is lit up with a vivid spectacle of bioluminescent colours, offering an up close look at the marine life.
The reimagined Oceanarium also features a bioluminescence beach, a space that uses digital projectors to make the surroundings come alive with bioluminescent colours.
“Night on the Reef will not only captivate and amaze but also raise awareness about the importance of preserving precious marine ecosystems,” said Claire Burrell, general manager, Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium.
“This project embodies our commitment to conservation and our mission to inspire visitors to protect and cherish our oceans. We can't wait for everyone to experience our magnificent new oceanarium.”
To complete the work, the aquarium was entirely drained in early 2023, with its largest sea creatures temporarily moved to Sea Life aquarium in Sydney and on the Sunshine Coast. Following a nine month dry period, the marine environment was reestablished with 34 tonnes of sand, 2.2 million litres of water and 74 tonnes of salt.
Night on the Reef is open to the public now, with a special drone show celebrating the launch set to take place on January 16 at 9pm. The show will be available for all to see and will take place above the Yarra River opposite Melbourne’s Crown Casino.
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