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Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium’s Oceanarium has just reopened following a multi-million dollar renovation

The highly anticipated permanent exhibition features 34 tonnes of sand, 2.2 million litres of water and a colourful array of marine creatures

Leah Glynn
Written by
Leah Glynn
Melbourne Editor
A woman holding a little girl in an aquarium.
Photograph: Alex Frank
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The moment we’ve all been waiting for is here: Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium has officially unveiled its brand new $9 million exhibition, Night on the Reef.

The Oceanarium originally closed in early 2023, with works commencing to completely upgrade the space and transform it into a breathtaking ocean floor landscape. After a dry period that lasted nine months, a remarkable 34 tonnes of sand, 2.2 million litres of water and 74 tonnes of premium salt were carefully used to fill the marine environment and create a magical slice of coral reef in the heart of Melbourne.

Night on the Reef takes you on a journey into the glowing world of bioluminescence under the water’s surface. With 360-degree views, you’ll be able to get up close with all the creatures who call this world-class exhibition home – including sea turtles, tropical fish, ocellated eagle rays, reef sharks and giant guitarfish. 

An aquarium with a manta ray.
Photograph: Alex Frank

The habitat will also be alive with corals of all colours, shapes and sizes that mirror what thrives in reefs across the world, and there’s even a bioluminescence beach complete with digital projections you can walk along. 

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium is committed to delivering a groundbreaking experience that entertains visitors, educates on conservation and sustainability, and fosters appreciation for the world’s oceans. Night on the Reef is an important element in raising awareness about preserving our oceans and the marine life within them.

Night on the Reef is now open to the public. To experience the wonder of this magical exhibition, head to the website for all the details.

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