In October 2021, the aquarist and technical operations teams loaded the remaining animals from the predator tank onto the transport truck with huge success. The black tip reef shark, Queensland grouper, mangrove jack, surgeon fish and a large majority of the spiny chromis were transferred in a smooth and timely manner, concluding our destocking initiative.
The team conducted thorough planning focused on the animalsโ welfare. For example, two nets were modified with soft mesh to prevent injuries and assist with the catch strategy. Also, Stuart from the aquarist team was on hand when the animals arrived safe and sound at Sea World on the Gold Coast to oversee their unloading.
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority acknowledges the expertise, wisdom, and enduring connections that have informed the guardianship of the Reef for millennia. We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners as the first managers of this land and sea Country, and value their traditional knowledge which continues to inform the current management and stewardship of the Reef for future generations. We pay our respects to the Gurambilbarra Wulgurukaba Traditional Owners on whose land the Great Barrier Reef Aquarium is situated on. We acknowledge their connection to Country and are honoured to be collaborating with the Gurambilbarra Wulgurukaba community to co-design exhibits highlighting culture values and connections to sea Country.