The Great Barrier Reef

This week, my keen Oz goers, I will be dipping my toes into the Great Barrier Reef. Located just off the east coast of Australia, the world’s biggest coral reef ecosystem is in fact so huge, that it can be viewed from space. It covers an area of 300,000 km² and boasts over 3000 reefs, some measuring 10,000 hectares in size. Due to human interference, there has been much pollution caused in the reefs and various organizations are striving to protect these beautiful areas rich with flora and fauna. The reefs are mostly made up of coral, which are also home to most of the living organisms in these areas. You can tell whether you are dealing with live or dead coral by the colour – if it is white then it’s dead, if it is coloured however, then it is alive. Many ships have become victims of the vast coral around Australia, including Captain Cook’s vessel. 30 shipwrecks can be found around this area. The Great Barrier Reef thrives with life, an exciting array of wildlife can be found here, including different species of fish, birds and molluscs. Sadly, more and more animals are declining in number, so the workers of the park are trying to raise awareness and protect these wonderful creatures. To learn more about this breathtaking part of the world, please go to: http://www.cultureandrecreation.gov.au/articles/greatbarrierreef/ Have a G’day!