Griffith University and Sea World hosted the Hon Karen Andrews MP, Federal Minister for Industry, Science and Technology to officially launch Sea Jellies Illuminated at a formal event on siteattended by Professor Carolyn Evens, Vice Chancellor and President, as well as Griffith University and Sea Worldresearchers and staff.

Sea World Marine Sciences Director Marnie Horton. Credit: Justin Ma

The unique and visually striking exhibit is a celebration of the partnership between the university and the Village Roadshow themepark that will allow for greater opportunity to accelerate research using the Griffith Sea Jellies Research Laboratory within the exhibit and further drivetourism on the Gold Coast.

Griffith University Head of Marine Science Professor Kylie Pitt said itwas extremely exciting to partner with Sea World for the launchof Sea Jellies Illuminated.

“The Griffith Sea Jellies Research Laboratory is a state-of-the-art facility, which places Griffith University at the forefront of jellyfish research internationally,” she said.

“The laboratory provides an amazing opportunity for the public to see research being done and to gain greater understanding of what scientists do, why research is important and how research benefits the environment and society.”

Sea World’s Dr Trevor Long, DVC Academic Prof Debra Henly, VC and President Prof Carolyn Evans, Hon Karen Andrews MP, Prof Kylie Pitt, and Village Roadshow CEO Clark Kirby. Credit: Justin Ma

Sea Jellies Illuminatedgives Sea World visitors the chance to get up close to a range of different sea jelly species in an array of eye-catching ‘illuminated’displays while learning more about these amazing aquatic animals.

Theexhibit incorporates a working research laboratorywhich will allow visitorsto view Griffith students undertaking research into the fascinatingunderwaterworld of sea jellies.

Sea World’s Dr Trevor Long said sea jellies rank among the most fascinating creatures of the sea and he is extremely proud to open this world-class exhibit with Griffith University.

“Sea Jellies Illuminated is a visually impressive exhibit but importantly it also provides greater public awareness and education about a varying species of jellies, which are often misunderstood,” he said.

“Guests can now get an up-close look at and be able to learn about a variety of local Australian species such as the Blue Blubber (Catostylussp.), the Moon jelly (Aureliaaurita), Upside Down jellies (Cassiopeasp.) and many more in illuminated displays.