Reef HQ, Townsville

Eco-friendly activity

This eco-accredited, non-profit aquarium is a great spot to go before or after you visit the reef itself, as it will introduce you to some of the main characters out there and give you lots of great information about them. Staffed mainly by volunteers, the aquarium changes 750 000 litres of water every ten days and has a wave machine and currents, which has enabled the growth of the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium. Do not miss the ‘deep and dark’ section at the back, with bizarre nautilus and glowing onefin flashlight fish.