Impact
Helping the reef and its residents through research and using art to drive public awareness for the challenges it faces.
CORAL & Fish Diversity
The Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) with its Coral Greenhouse and Ocean Sentinels installations has had a profound positive effect on the vibrant corals and diverse marine life within John Brewer Reef. Through its innovative underwater sculptures and coral planting efforts, MOUA has created artificial habitats that not only attract and provide shelter for a multitude of marine species but also promote coral growth and regeneration. The unique installations have revitalised and rejuvenated areas of the reef, fostering a thriving ecosystem where corals flourish and fish thrive.
ImpacT AssessmentS
Ensuring the preservation and well-being of the Great Barrier Reef is of utmost importance to MOUA. That is why rigorous site assessment and monitoring efforts are undertaken to guarantee that the presence of the museum has no negative impact on this delicate ecosystem. MOUA works closely with environmental experts, scientists, and reef management authorities to assess the site's suitability for installation and regularly monitor the surrounding area.
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Ongoing Research
MOUA in partnership with Reef Ecologic and the active participation of citizen scientists, is utilising the iNaturalist platform to monitor species at the remarkable John Brewer Reef and gather crucial data for scientific research. By engaging divers and snorkelers in this collaborative effort, MOUA empowers individuals to upload their underwater photos to the dedicated John Brewer MOUA project on iNaturalist. This collective effort not only enables participants to learn about the diverse marine life they encounter but also contributes to a comprehensive dataset used by marine biologists and researchers.
★★★★★
“MOUA is unique and truly a world class attraction! I love going back to this place to see how IT attracts different corals and marine life.”
Al Songcuan, Visitor
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Tourism Economy
The estimated economic impact of the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) is remarkable, especially when considering the flow-on effects it has on tourism.
Projections by MOUA proponents suggest that the development will attract an additional 50,000 visitors to the region annually. However, this estimate is considered conservative, as it represents less than 1 percent of the current yearly visitors to the area. Based on the profiles of current visitors, this increase would result in an additional 25,000 domestic day trippers, 109,080 domestic and international visitor nights, and a substantial visitor expenditure of $22,551,440.
It is further estimated that the operation of MOUA will generate an impressive $42,119,000 in recurring output, creating employment opportunities for 182 individuals primarily within the tourism and conservation sectors. The wages and salaries generated annually are estimated to reach $10,594,000, contributing to the overall economic growth. Additionally, the presence of MOUA is projected to add $20,073,000 to the gross regional product, further enhancing the economic prosperity of the area.
These estimates demonstrate the significant potential economic benefits that MOUA brings in addition to its artistic and conservation endeavours, making it a catalyst for growth and prosperity in the Townsville region.
ImpacT AssessmentS
“[MOUA is] a living piece of art that communicates to the people how important research is, how important coral reefs are, and how all these aspects – art, science, humanity – can come together to protect the reef.”
Dr Katharina Fabricius, Ocean Sentinel
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Generating Awareness
Above all else, MOUA has achieved extraordinary success in its primary mission of garnering media attention for the Great Barrier Reef and the challenges it faces.
MOUA's innovative approach combines art and science to address the critical challenges of climate change and coral bleaching, capturing the attention of media outlets and sparking vital conversations about reef preservation.
The museum's stunning underwater sculptures serve as powerful symbols of the reef's resilience and the collective responsibility we all bear in its protection. The artistic masterpieces tell a compelling story of hope, demonstrating that the reef can bounce back, and highlighting the power of small, everyday changes in fostering its resilience.
MOUA's remarkable achievements have propelled it to the forefront of reef conservation efforts, gaining widespread recognition and captivating the attention of media outlets far and wide. Through their extensive coverage, these media platforms have helped MOUA achieve its primary goal of raising awareness and inspiring action to safeguard this extraordinary natural wonder.
MOUA in The NeWs
Help us help the Reef
Support us in drawing attention to the challenges the reef faces.