An immersive new exhibition exploring the wonders of the ocean is set to open at Scitech later this year, thanks to a significant $3.5 million funding commitment from the Minderoo Foundation. The interactive display, titled Oceans: The World Beneath the Waves, is currently under construction in Scitech's workshop and promises to transport visitors into the depths of marine environments.
Exploring Five Marine Zones Through Interactive Displays
The exhibition will guide visitors through five distinct marine zones: the coast, coral reef, kelp forest, deep sea, and polar seas. Children will have the unique opportunity to clamber aboard a simulated ocean research vessel, enhancing the hands-on learning experience. Scitech chief executive John Chappell emphasised that oceans cover 71 per cent of the planet and are essential for all life on Earth.
We hope this exhibition will spark curiosity, inspire action and create the next generation of ocean champions, Mr Chappell said. The main exhibition is scheduled to be on display for 12 months before embarking on national and international tours, while a smaller version will travel to regional areas to broaden its reach.
Minderoo Foundation's Crucial Role in Marine Education
The Minderoo Foundation, founded by mining magnate Andrew Forrest, who holds a PhD in marine ecology, provided the $3.5 million boost that made this project possible. Dr Forrest described oceans as the drum beat of life and stressed the importance of educating children about marine conservation.
Any child who looks out upon the ocean feels this sense of awe, this sense of inspiration, this sense of infinity, Dr Forrest said. However, it's not infinite, it's not forever — we have to care for it. It's being destroyed at a greater rate, probably, than the terrestrial environment. So SciTech is doing a critical job.
Incorporating Advanced Marine Science and eDNA Activities
The exhibition will incorporate elements of the Minderoo Foundation's work in advancing marine genomics and environmental DNA (eDNA) research. This integration aims to improve public understanding of ocean biodiversity through interactive displays.
Children will be able to participate in an activity that simulates the process of analysing eDNA in seawater samples from each marine zone. This hands-on experience will allow them to identify different species of organisms, highlighting the cutting-edge science used to study and protect marine ecosystems.
By combining immersive exhibits with real-world scientific applications, Oceans: The World Beneath the Waves seeks to inspire visitors to take action in protecting fragile marine environments. The exhibition underscores the critical role of education and innovation in addressing the challenges facing our oceans today.
