The world’s most renowned naturalist, David Attenborough, has embarked on one of his most compelling journeys yet with the forthcoming screening of his documentary of the world’s largest living structure, the mighty Great Barrier Reef.
David Attenborough’s three-part Great Barrier Reef documentary will commence screening at 7.40pm on Sunday 10th April on the ABC and be available on ABC iview.
Attenborough had this to say about the prospect of returning to the reef to film the documentary: “The most exciting natural experience of my life was the first time I dived on a coral reef. Being on the Reef is a revelatory, thrilling and unbeatable experience and with this project, we are going to be able to share it with millions.
“As I entered the water I remember suddenly seeing these amazing multi-coloured species living in communities – just astounding and unforgettable beauty. So I’m very excited to be returning to the Reef with all the latest technology and science to see one of the most important places on the planet in a whole new way.”
Attenborough has also said to The Guardian.com of the Great Barrier Reef that, “It is fantastic, better than travelling to the moon.”
Attenborough first visited the Reef in 1957 using the first scuba-diving equipment and has been back several times since but never for a documentary of this nature.
The three hour-long programs will have eventually aired in 130 countries to around one billion people.
Daydream Island’s Living Reef Manager and resident marine biologist John Gaskell says that the reef continues to fascinate visitors to Daydream and the Whitsunday region.
“We’re lucky to be located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. It’s a constant source of wonderment to our guests, no matter whether it’s their first visit or one of many,” he said.
“This documentary will shine the light on the amazing variety of marine life to be found, many of which can be seen whilst snorkeling just off our own fringing coral reef.”
Daydream’s on-island Living Reef attraction is one of the world’s largest man-made living coral reef lagoons, home to more than 140 species of marine fish, 82 species of coral and 15 species of invertebrates such as starfish, sea cucumbers and crabs.
Comprising a north and south lagoon and holding more than 1.5 million litres of water, the Living Reef lets visitors learn about and get up close to the fascinating inhabitants of the Great Barrier Reef.