Reef HQ aquarium returns to original name The Great Barrier Reef Aquarium

As work proceeds behind the scenes to rebuild Reef HQ, the aquarium has been renamed to celebrate its 36th anniversary since opening.

To coincide with Reef HQ Aquarium’s recent 36th birthday, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority has restored the tourism landmark to its original name – The Great Barrier Reef Aquarium.

After opening on June 24, 1987, The Great Barrier Reef Aquarium site was closed in February 2021 to allow for the demolition of the old Great Barrier Reef Wonderland complex, including the former Omnimax theatre, a three-level office space and former cultural centre.

Plans to refurbish the aquarium were abandoned in November 2022, in favour of building a new reef aquarium by 2026.

Providing an update on the project, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Reef Authority) General Manager Ian Walker said they were working with Townsville-based principal contractor Paynters to design a modern educational facility featuring “sustainable engineering and architectural innovation, durability, and creativity to deliver a world-class aquarium, making the reef accessible to everyone”.

Historic view over the Great Barrier Reef Wonderland complex including the Omnimax theatre.

The Reef HQ site in 2023, where the marine park offices, IMAX theatre and cultural centre once stood. Picture: Leighton Smith.

“On current planning, the Reef Authority is hopeful of submitting a Development Application (to Townsville City Council) in the next three months,” Mr Walker said.

“More detail in relation to the development will be publicly available through that process.

“Under any future design, the facility will incorporate modern technology, interactive digital exhibits and displays that accurately represent the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area.”

He said co-designing key features of the Great Barrier Reef Aquarium with the Wulgurukaba Traditional Owners will highlight their connection to sea country throughout the facility.

The Reef HQ aquarium will be demolished and renamed The Great Barrier Reef Aquarium. Picture: Leighton Smith.

Concept image of The Great Barrier Reef Aquarium. Concepts are subject to change.

Much of the aquarium’s marine life has already been relocated to the Australian Institute of Marine Science, SeaWorld, and the Billabong Sanctuary.

“Some of our animals have been permanently rehomed in other aquariums and sanctuaries, and other temporary arrangements have been put in place,” he said.

“Prior to the commencement of any further major works, the relocation of the coral reef exhibit will be important.”

Reef HQ Reef guide Ryan Ramasamy shows American tourist Stephanie Rains through the aquarium when it was open. Picture: Zak Simmonds

Featuring live exhibits, including the world’s largest living coral reef exhibit, the cutting-edge aquarium would be powered by clean energy to deliver “global excellence in tropical reef education”, while offering visitors “engaging and immersive experiences” highlighting the importance of reef conservation.

“The Great Barrier Reef Aquarium will also contribute to the Townsville tourism and business economy by attracting new international and domestic visitors, and welcoming back our local visitors, with what will be a world-class facility,” he said.

A total of $80 million in federal funding has been allocated towards the project.

Originally published as Reef HQ aquarium returns to original name The Great Barrier Reef Aquarium