An $80.1 million refurbishment of the Australian Government's global education centre for the Great Barrier Reef is one step closer, with the appointment of the project's principal contractor.
Paynters has been appointed by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) to oversee the renewal of its 34-year-old facility Reef HQ Aquarium in Townsville, Queensland.
The contract between Paynters and GBRMPA will cover all works under the now fully funded Reef HQ 20-year Master Plan.
The Reef HQ refurbishment is funded by the Australian Government as part of the Townsville City Deal.
The project will transform Reef HQ, the world's largest living coral reef aquarium, into Australia's national centre of excellence for tropical coral reef education, making it a premium international tourism destination as COVID-19 restrictions ease.
The new-look Reef HQ will include immersive experiences and revitalised exhibits with educational activities, hands-on experiences, onsite diving programs, scientific demonstrations and the use of interactive technology.
Reef HQ Aquarium closed 1 February 2021 to prepare the facility for the works. It is expected to reopen at the end of 2023.
