You can now take part in the world's first coral planting at the Museum of Underwater Art

Want to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience that's also part of history? The first coral planting program has launched at the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) in Townsville, allowing the public to contribute to the ongoing protection of the Great Barrier Reef in a very tangible way.

So much more than an underwater gallery, the next chapter in MOUA’s unique story will see citizen scientists play a crucial role in bringing the "Coral Greenhouse" to life, allowing them to collaborate with artists, Indigenous storytellers and scientists to plant coral at this spectacular location on the reef.

Avid divers with an interest in reef conservation have the opportunity to work with a marine scientist as they have the opportunity to physically plant the first pieces of coral at the John Brewer Reef site across December.

“We have the benefit of being home to the learning centre of the Great Barrier Reef – visitors who experience the reef off Townsville’s coast are not only witnessing some of the best examples of coral reef, but can now participate in citizen science and learn how to protect it for future generations,” said Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive Director Paul Crocombe.

“We’re excited to offer this unique science-based experience to our guests and continue to take them to witness the MOUA and assist with the coral planting program.”

With interstate borders open to Australia and New Zealand, this new way of experiencing the Coral Greenhouse is perfectly timed, available to a fresh wave of visitors looking to experience the Southern Hemisphere’s first underwater museum in a very special way.

The package offer includes a full day trip to the Great Barrier Reef with Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive through Diveplanit Dive Travel, accompanied by a qualified marine scientist from Reef Ecologic, as well as a baby coral specimen to plant inside the Coral Greenhouse, photograph of your coral, and a scientific report of the coral garden after 12-months. Prices start at $1,000 per person for the month of December 2020*.

Want to explore nature's most epic natural masterpiece for yourself? Here's everything you need to know about the Museum of Underwater Art. 

*Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability

Feature image: Gemma Molinaro