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aem-Grid--phone--12","columnCount":12,":items":{"contentfragment":{"id":"contentfragment-9ff0c3a079","description":"","title":"great-barrier-reef-holiday-ideas-for-budding-marine-biologists",":type":"teq/components/contentfragment",":items":{},":itemsOrder":[],"elements":{"global_id":{"dataType":"string","value":"5673f4a3317022234a60ba1e5a7da714","title":"Global ID",":type":"text/plain","multiValue":false},"status":{"dataType":"string","value":"Publish","title":"Status",":type":"text/plain","multiValue":false},"URL":{"dataType":"string","value":"https://blog.queensland.com/2018/10/12/great-barrier-reef-holiday-ideas-for-budding-marine-biologists/","title":"URL",":type":"text/plain","multiValue":false},"author_first_name":{"dataType":"string","value":"Deborah","title":"Author First Name",":type":"text/plain","multiValue":false},"author_last_name":{"dataType":"string","value":"Dickson-Smith","title":"Author Last Name",":type":"text/plain","multiValue":false},"author_name":{"dataType":"string","value":"Deborah Dickson-Smith","title":"Author Name",":type":"text/plain","multiValue":false},"author_URL":{"dataType":"string","value":"http://diveplanit.com/","title":"Author URL",":type":"text/plain","multiValue":false},"author_avatar_URL":{"dataType":"string","value":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a2a3212db1158b4df89e4cb4f88da450?s=96&d=wp_user_avatar&r=g","title":"Author Avatar URL",":type":"text/plain","multiValue":false},"author_profile_URL":{"dataType":"string","value":"https://en.gravatar.com/a2a3212db1158b4df89e4cb4f88da450","title":"Author Profile URL",":type":"text/plain","multiValue":false},"title":{"dataType":"string","value":"Great Barrier Reef holiday ideas for your budding marine biologists","title":"Title",":type":"text/plain","multiValue":false},"content":{"dataType":"string","value":"\u003Cp\u003EIf my grade eight biology teacher taught me anything it was the greatest classrooms don’t have four walls. Nothing beats experiencing and ultimately connecting with the world around us to drive our understanding and this couldn’t ring more true when it comes to the Great Barrier Reef.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAs the \u003Ca target=\"_blank\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/explore-queensland/great-barrier-reef/infographic-great-barrier-reef\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003Elargest and most complex living organism\u003C/a\u003E on the planet it is a source of wonder and fascination that offers something new and worth learning with every kick of a fin.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf you’re raising a budding marine biologist, explorer or simply a child with a fascination of everything in the ocean, these Great Barrier Reef experiences might be just the ‘classroom’ they’re after.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch2\u003EStay at an eco-resort\u003C/h2\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg class=\"aligncenter size-standard-landscape wp-image-47661\" src=\"https://blog.queensland.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/lady-elliot-island-aerial-691x461.jpg\" alt=\"Lady Elliot Island | sea turtles\" width=\"691\" height=\"461\" srcset=\"https://blog.queensland.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/lady-elliot-island-aerial-691x461.jpg 691w, https://blog.queensland.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/lady-elliot-island-aerial-300x200.jpg 300w, https://blog.queensland.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/lady-elliot-island-aerial-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.queensland.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/lady-elliot-island-aerial-335x223.jpg 335w, https://blog.queensland.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/lady-elliot-island-aerial-1050x700.jpg 1050w, https://blog.queensland.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/lady-elliot-island-aerial-1048x699.jpg 1048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 691px) 100vw, 691px\" /\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EYour Great Barrier Reef adventure starts the moment you board the little Seair Pacific plane bound for \u003Ca target=\"_blank\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/destination%20information/lady-elliot-island\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" title=\"Lady Elliot Island\"\u003ELady Elliot Island\u003C/a\u003E – whether that’s from the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Hervey Bay or Bundaberg.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhen you spot Lady Elliot from the air you’ll be itching to get into that clear water to see the marine life (think manta rays, schools of fish and of course turtles) up close.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EYou’ll be amazed and possibly a little spoilt by the experience. Due to its proximity to the Continental Shelf (the drop-off) – and the distance from mainland – Lady Elliot sets the bar pretty high in terms of water quality and pristine coral reefs.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhen you arrive, spend an hour or so before dinner at the Reef Education Centre re-discovering how your Reef works and what makes Lady Elliot Island so special.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Eastern side of the island is a tidal coral lagoon, making it perfect for children to snorkel in at high tide, or for a guided reef walk at low tide.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EHot Tip: Lady Elliot Island is one of Project Manta’s most important sites for studying the ecology of \u003Ca target=\"_blank\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/explore-queensland/bundaberg-north-burnett/things-to-see-and-do/manta-rays\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" title=\"Manta Rays\"\u003Emanta rays\u003C/a\u003E. If you take any photos of mantas during your trip, be sure to submit them to Project Manta on Facebook so they can be added to their database.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ciframe title=\"On Lady Elliot Island with Peter Gash, where life is beautiful one day and perfect the next\" width=\"1048\" height=\"590\" src=\"https://www.youtube.com/embed/TD2xGJGzL6s?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen\u003E\u003C/iframe\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch2\u003EWitness turtle miracles at Mon Repos\u003C/h2\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg class=\"aligncenter wp-image-25528 size-full\" src=\"https://blog.queensland.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/turtle-hatchlings-at-mon-repos.jpg\" alt=\"Turtle Hatchlings at Mon Repos | The ultimate Great Barrier Reef road trip for budding marine biologists\" width=\"691\" height=\"461\" srcset=\"https://blog.queensland.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/turtle-hatchlings-at-mon-repos.jpg 691w, https://blog.queensland.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/turtle-hatchlings-at-mon-repos-300x200.jpg 300w, https://blog.queensland.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/turtle-hatchlings-at-mon-repos-335x223.jpg 335w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 691px) 100vw, 691px\" /\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAs an adult, gathered around a loggerhead turtle as she laid her clutch of eggs last season, I was in total awe. Then I turned and looked at the children around me. Eyes wide, mouths open, cheering the mother on and rattling of questions (all that were expertly answered mind you) to the Ranger on Duty. Magic is the only way to describe turtle season.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EEvery year from November to March, primarily loggerhead turtles lumber onto the beach at \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/attraction/mon-repos-turtle-centre\"\u003EMon Repos\u003C/a\u003E near Bundaberg to lay their clutch of eggs (they’ll repeat this several times during the season). Early in the new year the sand starts to rumble as the nests explode with at times more than 100 baby turtles as they take their first steps, scampering for the ocean.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDuring the season, tours are conducted nightly. The stars of the show can run on ‘turtle-time’ so be sure to pack something to keep the kids entertained as the wait can be upwards of an hour. Don’t worry. the wait is sure worth it. Be sure to check out \u003Ca href=\"https://blog.queensland.com/2018/09/11/how-to-see-nesting-turtles-near-brisbane/\"\u003Ethis post\u003C/a\u003E for everything you need to know on turtle season in Queensland.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch2\u003EFind Nemo (and all his friends) on Heron Island\u003C/h2\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg class=\"aligncenter wp-image-42099 size-full\" src=\"https://blog.queensland.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/heron-island1.jpg\" alt=\"Heron Island | The ultimate Great Barrier Reef road trip for budding marine biologists\" width=\"691\" height=\"461\" srcset=\"https://blog.queensland.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/heron-island1.jpg 691w, https://blog.queensland.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/heron-island1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://blog.queensland.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/heron-island1-335x223.jpg 335w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 691px) 100vw, 691px\" /\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAll aboard the Heron Islander for the two-hour trip to \u003Ca target=\"_blank\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/destination%20information/heron-island\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" title=\"Heron Island\"\u003EHeron Island\u003C/a\u003E. \u003Cem\u003EFinding Nemo/Dory\u003C/em\u003E screens on every trip – how many of the characters’ species can you actually name? Challenge yourself to  identify a dozen or so by the end of the trip. You can start right here with the \u003Ca target=\"_blank\" href=\"https://blog.queensland.com/2017/05/02/ebook-great-eight-marine-life/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" title=\"Marine Life Great Barrier Reef\"\u003EGreat Eight\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EHeron has a Marine Centre where you check-in for diving and snorkelling, and as important, an Information Centre where you can learn how the Reef functions, but also plays a part in planet-wide ecosystems.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe large infographic panels show the Reef’s connected food chains from phytoplankton right up to reef sharks, and also illustrates that Heron is an international destination for world travellers – with turtles visiting from Indonesia, whales from Antarctica and birds that fly in from as far afield as the Arctic Circle.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EHeron Island is also home to the University of Queensland’s world-class Research Station, with tours run daily by station staff to give you insight into how it operates and the research that’s conducted (enquire at resort reception for tour cost and availability).\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ELastly, Heron Island runs a fantastic Junior Rangers program that will have your little ones reciting fun marine facts for days!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif;\"\u003EHead to Reef HQ in Townsville\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/h2\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg class=\"alignnone wp-image-55772 size-standard-landscape\" src=\"https://blog.queensland.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/reef-hq-townsville-691x461.jpeg\" alt=\"Reef HQ Townsville\" width=\"691\" height=\"461\" srcset=\"https://blog.queensland.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/reef-hq-townsville-691x461.jpeg 691w, https://blog.queensland.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/reef-hq-townsville-1048x699.jpeg 1048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 691px) 100vw, 691px\" /\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAs the National Education Centre for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA), a visit to Reef HQ Aquarium is a fun way to learn about the reef without getting wet.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWith impressive exhibits including the world’s largest living coral reef exhibition (at a casual 2.5 million litres) the aquarium offers an ever-changing, always fascinating experience, showcasing rare and extraordinary features of the Great Barrier Reef.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EBe sure to visit the turtle hospital and the recovering turtles that are being cared for there.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch2\u003EBe marooned on a pontoon\u003C/h2\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg class=\"aligncenter wp-image-52834 size-standard-landscape\" src=\"https://blog.queensland.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/sunlover-moore-reef-pontoon-the-ultimate-travel-guide-to-tropical-north-queensland--691x461.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"691\" height=\"461\" srcset=\"https://blog.queensland.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/sunlover-moore-reef-pontoon-the-ultimate-travel-guide-to-tropical-north-queensland--691x461.jpg 691w, https://blog.queensland.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/sunlover-moore-reef-pontoon-the-ultimate-travel-guide-to-tropical-north-queensland--1048x699.jpg 1048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 691px) 100vw, 691px\" /\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EOuter-reef pontoons provide the perfect base for a family day on the reef with plenty of activities (did someone say water slides) and the ability to chill out when need be after a few hours in the water.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca target=\"_blank\" href=\"http://www.queensland.com/tour/sunlover-reef-cruises\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003ESunlover Reef Cruises\u003C/a\u003E depart Cairns and have two pontoons, one on Moore Reef located on the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef and the other at the closer Arlington Reef. With glass-bottom boat tours, underwater observatories, marine life touch tank, fully-enclosed kids’ pool and a guided snorkel safari, there are more than enough options to keep the whole family entertained.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ETo ramp the reef experience up to 11, you can stay overnight on the Moore Reef pontoon with the Sunlover by Starlight experience. 26 nautical miles off the coast of Cairns and among the company of just 17 other people, you’ll have the Sunlover pontoon to yourself between 3:30pm and 11am for a private reef show after dark.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDeparting Port Douglas, \u003Ca target=\"_blank\" href=\"http://www.queensland.com/tour/quicksilver-cruises\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003EQuicksilver Cruises\u003C/a\u003E offer cruises, both suitable for toddlers through to older children. The \u003Ca target=\"_blank\" href=\"http://www.queensland.com/attraction/agincourt-reef\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003EAgincourt Reef \u003C/a\u003Epontoon (located on the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef) has a number of family-friendly activities, including an underwater observatory, semi-submersibles, snorkelling platforms and specially designed introductory dive areas.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIntro scuba diving lessons are offered for children aged 12 and older. There’s also the added bonus of undercover tables and seating, and freshwater showers and change rooms.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFurther south in the Whitsundays, \u003Ca target=\"_blank\" href=\"http://www.queensland.com/tour/cruise-whitsundays\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003ECruise Whitsundays\u003C/a\u003E offer a number of cruises that cater to children of varying ages. Take your pick from a trip to Whitehaven Beach, Hamilton Island their Reefworld pontoon at \u003Ca target=\"_blank\" href=\"http://www.queensland.com/attraction/hardy-reef\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003EHardy Reef\u003C/a\u003E. For children who prefer to keep dry, there are underwater viewing chambers and semi-submersibles to explore the coral and marine life. The shallower waters offer the perfect environment for children to go snorkelling, plus there’s the added bonus of a lifeguard station and rest stations in the water.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch2\u003EWhat’s your favourite spot on the Great Barrier Reef? Let us know in the comments below.\u003C/h2\u003E\n","title":"Content",":type":"text/plain","multiValue":false},"date":{"dataType":"calendar","value":1539284452000,"title":"Date",":type":"calendar","multiValue":false},"date_modified":{"dataType":"calendar","value":1580941500000,"title":"Date Modified",":type":"calendar","multiValue":false},"excerpt":{"dataType":"string","value":"\u003Cp\u003EFor those who want to get up close and oh-so-personal with this World Heritage-listed wonder. \u003C/p\u003E\n","title":"Excerpt",":type":"text/plain","multiValue":false},"slug":{"dataType":"string","value":"great-barrier-reef-holiday-ideas-for-budding-marine-biologists","title":"Slug",":type":"text/plain","multiValue":false},"featured_image":{"dataType":"string","value":"/content/dam/teq/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/the-ultimate-great-barrier-reef-journey-for-budding-marine-biologists.jpg","title":"Featured Image",":type":"text/plain","multiValue":false},"post_thumbnail":{"dataType":"string","value":"/content/dam/teq/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/the-ultimate-great-barrier-reef-journey-for-budding-marine-biologists.jpg","title":"Post Thumbnail",":type":"text/plain","multiValue":false}},"elementsOrder":["global_id","status","URL","author_first_name","author_last_name","author_name","author_URL","author_avatar_URL","author_profile_URL","title","content","date","date_modified","excerpt","slug","featured_image","post_thumbnail"],"model":"teq/models/blog"},"editorial_hero_banne":{"title":"Great Barrier Reef holiday ideas for your budding marine biologists","layoutVariation":"standardWidth","tag":{"colour":"#ff4eff","text":"List"},"breadcrumbItems":[{"active":false,"title":"Home","url":"https://www.queensland.com/nz/en/home"},{"active":false,"title":"Things to Do","url":"https://www.queensland.com/nz/en/things-to-do"},{"active":false,"title":"Traveller Type","url":"https://www.queensland.com/nz/en/things-to-do/traveller"},{"active":false,"title":"Family Holidays","url":"https://www.queensland.com/nz/en/things-to-do/traveller/families"},{"active":true,"title":"Great Barrier Reef holiday ideas for budding marine biologists","url":"https://www.queensland.com/nz/en/things-to-do/traveller/families/great-barrier-reef-holiday-ideas-for-budding-marine-biologists"}],"gallery":{"mediaCollection":[{"mediaType":"image","mediaProps":{"fileFormat":"","sku":"","src":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/great-barrier-reef/blog-images/editorial-hero-banner/2017_GBR_GreatBarrierReef_MarineLifeExperiences_UnderwaterViewingArea.jpg","alt":"Marine Life | Great Barrier Reef ","title":null,"link":null,"mobileSrc":"","attribution":null,"quality":60},"mediaPropsSlide":null}]},":type":"teq/components/editorial/editorial-hero-banner"},"editorialauthor":{"name":"Kim\t Barnard","resourcePath":"/content/teq/nz/en/things-to-do/traveller/families/great-barrier-reef-holiday-ideas-for-budding-marine-biologists/jcr:content/root/responsivegrid/editorialauthor","publishedDateISO":"2020-05-20T02:49:14.526Z",":type":"teq/components/editorial/editorialauthor","image":{"src":"/home/users/3/3IEIsb4tCaVmiNKJWnUF/profile.profile.image","alt":"Kim\t Barnard"}},"editorial_description":{"text":"\u003Cp\u003EVisiting Queensland’s World Heritage listed \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef\" target=\"_self\" title=\"Great Barrier Reef\"\u003EGreat Barrier Reef\u003C/a\u003E is an adventure on the top of a lot of people’s bucket lists. Its reefs, teeming with an abundance of weird and wonderful marine life, are nothing short of spectacular, and what better place to learn about this ecosystem than spending time in and around it.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EIf your kids are fascinated by the ocean and its inhabitants, then a trip to the world’s \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/nz/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/facts-about-the-iconic-great-barrier-reef\" target=\"_self\"\u003Elargest and most complex living organism\u003C/a\u003E will be the experience of a lifetime. There’s so much to learn about the ecology and sustainability of this underwater wonderland.\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EThis guide uncovers a range of Great Barrier Reef holiday ideas for families; perfect for all kinds of explorers and budgets. \u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Ch2\u003EStay at an eco-resort\u003C/h2\u003E\r\n","readMoreHeight":0,"richText":true,":type":"teq/components/editorial/editorial-description"},"imagec785e231-de79-4c8b-a630-3f8ed7f89807":{"componentName":"teq/components/image","src":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/great-barrier-reef/blog-images/2020_BDB_LadyElliotIsland_Islands_@LadyElliotIslandAerial.jpg","fileReference":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/great-barrier-reef/blog-images/2020_BDB_LadyElliotIsland_Islands_@LadyElliotIslandAerial.jpg","alt":"Lady Elliot Island | Great Barrier Reef holiday ideas for your budding marine biologists","srcUriTemplate":"https://www.queensland.com/nz/en/things-to-do/traveller/families/great-barrier-reef-holiday-ideas-for-budding-marine-biologists/_jcr_content/root/responsivegrid/imagec785e231-de79-4c8b-a630-3f8ed7f89807.coreimg{.width}.jpeg/1760662577760/2020-bdb-ladyelliotisland-islands--ladyelliotislandaerial.jpeg","uuid":"f4ec925c-5fec-400e-b54d-3b93e6a6d2f8","lazyEnabled":false,":type":"teq/components/image"},"text_975534855":{"text":"\u003Cp\u003EYour adventure begins when you hop on board the Seair Pacific plane, headed to the southernmost island on the Great Barrier Reef—\u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/destination-information/p-56b25d55aeeeaaf773cef40d-lady-elliot-island\" target=\"_self\" title=\"Lady Elliot Island\"\u003ELady Elliot Island\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003ESince 1996, this charter flight (which is the only way to get to Lady Elliot Eco Resort) has provided guests with an impeccable bird’s eye view of the reef. You can catch this unique ride from Brisbane, Gold Coast, Hervey Bay or Bundaberg.\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EWhen you arrive at the resort, which is dedicated to preserving its pristine surroundings, spend an hour or so before dinner at the world-class Reef Education Centre. The kids’ curiosities will be explored with the educational wall graphics and fact sheets, as well as the touchable displays of coral and shells. You’ll leave this space knowing why Lady Elliot Island is so special.\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EWhen the kids want to experience the magical waters first hand, head to the eastern side of the island and dive into the tidal coral lagoon. This is the perfect spot for children to snorkel in at high tide, or go for a guided reef walk at low tide.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EHot tip: \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/destination-information/p-56b25d55aeeeaaf773cef40d-lady-elliot-island\" target=\"_self\"\u003ELady Elliot Island\u003C/a\u003E also goes by the name ‘Home of the Manta Rays’. This island is one of Project Manta’s most important sites for studying the ecology of \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/destinations/bundaberg\" target=\"_self\"\u003Emanta rays\u003C/a\u003E. If you take any photos of mantas during your trip, be sure to submit them to Project Manta on Facebook so they can be added to their database.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EIf you want to pack the fun and adventure of Lady Elliot into a 48-hour trip, this \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/plan-your-holiday/itineraries/48-hours-on-lady-elliot-island\" target=\"_self\"\u003Ehandy guide\u003C/a\u003E will help.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n","richText":true,":type":"teq/components/text"},"social_video_player":{"type":"youtube",":type":"teq/components/social-video-player","videoId":"TD2xGJGzL6s"},"text":{"text":"\u003Ch2\u003EWitness turtle miracles at Mon Repos\u003C/h2\u003E\r\n","richText":true,":type":"teq/components/text"},"image44d61936-b33c-4f9c-a381-39a5ccc21222":{"componentName":"teq/components/image","src":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/bundaberg/blog-images/2013_BDB_MonRepos_WildlifeExperiences_TurtleHatchlingsAtMonRepos.jpg","fileReference":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/bundaberg/blog-images/2013_BDB_MonRepos_WildlifeExperiences_TurtleHatchlingsAtMonRepos.jpg","alt":"Mon Repos | Great Barrier Reef holiday ideas for your budding marine biologists","srcUriTemplate":"https://www.queensland.com/nz/en/things-to-do/traveller/families/great-barrier-reef-holiday-ideas-for-budding-marine-biologists/_jcr_content/root/responsivegrid/image44d61936-b33c-4f9c-a381-39a5ccc21222.coreimg{.width}.jpeg/1760662577860/2013-bdb-monrepos-wildlifeexperiences-turtlehatchlingsatmonrepos.jpeg","uuid":"700ce23b-8e25-49e0-8246-bef3d2b4486a","lazyEnabled":false,":type":"teq/components/image"},"text38f28f11-30fb-44d6-a36b-fbd86557f8a6":{"text":"\u003Cp\u003ETo experience the miracle of life in front of your very eyes, line up your trip with turtle season.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EEvery year from November to March, loggerhead turtles migrate to \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/things-to-do/attractions/p-56b265262cbcbe7073adf134-mon-repos-turtle-centre-mon-repos-conservation-park\" target=\"_self\"\u003EMon Repos\u003C/a\u003E beach, near Bundaberg, to lay their eggs. Early in the year (January to March) the sand starts to rumble as the nests explode with baby turtles who scramble to their ocean home.\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EDuring the season, tours are conducted nightly by expert park rangers, who’ll be ready to answer all your kids’ budding questions. The stars of the show can run on ‘turtle-time’ so be sure to pack something to keep the kids entertained as the wait can be upwards of an hour. As a must-do Great Barrier Reef holiday idea for families, it will undoubtedly be worth the wait!\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003ETo learn more about turtle season in Queensland, check out \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/nature-and-wildlife/turtles/turtle-hatching-season-guide\" target=\"_self\"\u003Ethis post\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cb\u003ESay hello to Heron Island\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/h2\u003E\r\n","richText":true,":type":"teq/components/text"},"image961e2249-cad6-4d88-81a1-00bbd97f5b1e":{"componentName":"teq/components/image","src":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/capricorn/blog-images/2017_CAP_HeronIsland_Islands_HeronIsland1.jpg","fileReference":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/capricorn/blog-images/2017_CAP_HeronIsland_Islands_HeronIsland1.jpg","alt":"Heron Island | Great Barrier Reef holiday ideas for your budding marine biologists","srcUriTemplate":"https://www.queensland.com/nz/en/things-to-do/traveller/families/great-barrier-reef-holiday-ideas-for-budding-marine-biologists/_jcr_content/root/responsivegrid/image961e2249-cad6-4d88-81a1-00bbd97f5b1e.coreimg{.width}.jpeg/1760662577919/2017-cap-heronisland-islands-heronisland1.jpeg","uuid":"4bd1cdbc-14db-4eed-95f7-2ffd9ac06c1d","lazyEnabled":false,":type":"teq/components/image"},"textbd95a264-5cfb-42aa-844b-386c3a5cf336":{"text":"\u003Cp\u003EAll aboard the Heron Islander for the two-hour trip to \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/destination-information/p-56b25d58d5f1565045d9fada-heron-island\" target=\"_self\"\u003EHeron Island\u003C/a\u003E, where you can tour the island, reefs and water, and watch picture-perfect sunsets over the tranquil ocean.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EHeron Island is home to an information centre where you can discover how the reef ecosystem operates. Large infographic panels highlight food chains from phytoplankton to reef sharks, and how the island attracts travellers from all over the world—such as turtles from Indonesia, whales from Antarctica and birds that fly in from the icy Arctic Circle.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EYou’ll also obtain a wealth of knowledge from the University of Queensland’s world-class Research Station, which happens to be the largest island-based research station in the Southern Hemisphere. Listen to the station staff discuss their interesting investigations and experiments in and around Heron Reef; this will give the kids an excellent insight into working with marine life.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EAfter the family has soaked up all there is to know about the reef, register for a diving or snorkelling tour so you can immerse yourself in it and meet and greet the locals. If you’re lucky, you might even spot \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/marine-life\" target=\"_self\"\u003Enemo and his friends\u003C/a\u003E or \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/marine-life/where-to-find-queenslands-great-8-marine-creatures\" target=\"_self\"\u003EQueensland’s great eight\u003C/a\u003E!\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EIf your kids are a bit younger (7 to 12), and not up to diving or snorkelling, the Junior Rangers program is the perfect replacement. This experience is filled with nature-based activities to insight a sense of exploration and caring for the environment—from reef walks, bird-watching and beachcombing, to getting imaginative and designing/running their own resort island. The kids can even earn embroidered badges to show off their educational efforts! \u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cb\u003EVisit Reef HQ in Townsville\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/h2\u003E\r\n","richText":true,":type":"teq/components/text"},"image4e56198e-cce2-4f43-9a67-d18444671835":{"componentName":"teq/components/image","src":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/townsville/blog-images/2020_TSV_ReefHQ_MarineLife_ReefHqTownsville.jpeg","fileReference":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/townsville/blog-images/2020_TSV_ReefHQ_MarineLife_ReefHqTownsville.jpeg","alt":"Reef HQ Townsville | Great Barrier Reef holiday ideas for your budding marine biologists","srcUriTemplate":"https://www.queensland.com/nz/en/things-to-do/traveller/families/great-barrier-reef-holiday-ideas-for-budding-marine-biologists/_jcr_content/root/responsivegrid/image4e56198e-cce2-4f43-9a67-d18444671835.coreimg{.width}.jpeg/1760662577979/2020-tsv-reefhq-marinelife-reefhqtownsville.jpeg","uuid":"c24402b9-0108-46a0-83a2-f53e9463e7b5","lazyEnabled":false,":type":"teq/components/image"},"text8f661761-b98f-4dfa-97d4-a01d88d70522":{"text":"\u003Cp\u003EAnother excellent \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/best-great-barrier-reef-experiences\" target=\"_self\"\u003EGreat Barrier Reef\u003C/a\u003E holiday idea for families is venturing to \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/destinations/townsville\" target=\"_self\"\u003ETownsville\u003C/a\u003E and experiencing the reef without getting wet.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EAs the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium and the Australian Government’s national education centre for the Great Barrier Reef, you can expect to spend a whole day exploring Reef HQ.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EFeaturing a 2.5 million litre coral reef exhibition, underwater viewing tunnel, daily talks and tours, and a turtle hospital, this innovative classroom is one the kids won’t want to leave.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EReef HQ is dedicated to keeping their environmental impact to a minimum, and have recently implemented two great initiatives: upgrading their solar energy system to increase its capacity and introducing a ‘Reef-fuse single use’ policy within their onsite cafe.\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Ch2\u003EBe marooned on a pontoon\u003C/h2\u003E\r\n","richText":true,":type":"teq/components/text"},"image52c790ab-83d4-4c1c-b0f9-85d8273b7acb":{"componentName":"teq/components/image","src":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/great-barrier-reef/blog-images/2018_GBR_Cairns_DivingAndSnorkelling_DivingsunloverMooreReefPontoon.jpg","fileReference":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/great-barrier-reef/blog-images/2018_GBR_Cairns_DivingAndSnorkelling_DivingsunloverMooreReefPontoon.jpg","alt":"Sunlover Pontoon Cairns | Great Barrier Reef holiday ideas for your budding marine biologists","srcUriTemplate":"https://www.queensland.com/nz/en/things-to-do/traveller/families/great-barrier-reef-holiday-ideas-for-budding-marine-biologists/_jcr_content/root/responsivegrid/image52c790ab-83d4-4c1c-b0f9-85d8273b7acb.coreimg{.width}.jpeg/1760662578038/2018-gbr-cairns-divingandsnorkelling-divingsunlovermoorereefpontoon.jpeg","uuid":"73d36139-1f79-4801-8033-a770fb0825c5","lazyEnabled":false,":type":"teq/components/image"},"text09d84d1d-5ca4-4012-ad6b-d1eb3e76aa9f":{"text":"\u003Cp\u003EPontoons provide the perfect base for a family day on the reef with plenty of activities and the ability to chill out after a few hours in the water. Three operators who offer this unique experience include Sunlover Reef Cruises, \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/things-to-do/tours/p-56b25de22880253d74c4558f-quicksilver-cruises\" target=\"_self\"\u003EQuicksilver Cruises\u003C/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/things-to-do/tours/p-56b25f672880253d74c47623-cruise-whitsundays\" target=\"_self\"\u003ECruise Whitsundays\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EEco-certified \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/things-to-do/tours/p-56b25e017b935fbe730dcb1d-sunlover-reef-cruises-outer-barrier-reef-day-tour---moore-reef\" target=\"_self\"\u003ESunlover Reef Cruises\u003C/a\u003E depart from Cairns on a daily basis, taking passengers to Moore Reef Marine Base. This special spot is suitable for all ages and abilities, so no one will miss out on spotting the colourful coral, fish, turtles and other fascinating sea life. After four hours of reef time, spread out on the Sunlover Sun Deck and sip on a refreshing drink. When the kids’ energy has returned, they’ll be itching to take a dip in the enclosed kids pool and race down the only water slide on the reef.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003ETo take your reef experience to the next level, stay overnight on the Moore Reef pontoon with the Sunlover by Starlight experience. Between the hours of 3:45pm (when day guests depart) and  11:30am (when day guests arrive) only a handful of people will occupy the deck. Get cozy in a swag and sleep under the stars to the sound of water gently lapping on the boat. Note: 12 to 15 year-olds are permitted with a guardian.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EDeparting \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/destinations/cairns-and-great-barrier-reef/port-douglas\" target=\"_self\"\u003EPort Douglas\u003C/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/things-to-do/tours/p-56b25de22880253d74c4558f-quicksilver-cruises\" target=\"_self\"\u003EQuicksilver Cruises\u003C/a\u003E runs cruises suitable for toddlers to teenagers. The \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/things-to-do/attractions/p-56b2608eaeeeaaf773cf3615-agincourt-reef\" target=\"_self\"\u003EAgincourt Reef \u003C/a\u003Epontoon (located on the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef) has a number of family-friendly activities, including an underwater observatory, semi-submersibles, snorkelling platforms and specially designed introductory dive areas.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EIntroductory scuba diving lessons are offered for children 12 and over. There’s also the added luxury of undercover tables and seating, and freshwater showers and change rooms.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EFurther south in the \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/destinations/the-whitsundays\" target=\"_self\"\u003EWhitsundays\u003C/a\u003E, is the region’s largest and most experienced marine operator, \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/things-to-do/tours/p-56b25f672880253d74c47623-cruise-whitsundays\" target=\"_self\"\u003ECruise Whitsundays\u003C/a\u003E. Offering cruises for children of all ages, this experience will keep everyone entertained. Take your pick from a trip to Whitehaven Beach, Hamilton Island or their Reefworld pontoon at \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/things-to-do/attractions/p-56b260842cbcbe7073ada9b7-hardy-reef\" target=\"_self\"\u003EHardy Reef\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EFor children who prefer to keep dry, there are viewing chambers and semi-submersibles to explore the underwater world. The shallower waters are the perfect environment for children to go snorkelling, plus there’s the added bonus of a lifeguard station and rest stations in the water.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n","richText":true,":type":"teq/components/text"},"spacer":{"spacerType":"whitespace","paddingSize":"medium",":type":"teq/components/spacer"},"editorial_card_carou":{"maxNumber":40,"region":"","town":"","title":"You may also like","componentID":"editorial-card-carousel_2100470577","areaName":[],"notch":false,"stamp":{"src":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/logos/BOQE-2026-Stamp_Teal.png","alt":null,"link":null,"quality":0.0},"goodToGo":{"src":"","alt":"","link":null,"quality":0.0},"publicClassificationPathKey":"marine-life",":type":"teq/components/editorial/editorial-card-carousel","button":{"href":"https://www.queensland.com/nz/en/places-to-see/destinations/cairns-and-great-barrier-reef","label":"View More","target":null}},"spacer_1863354009":{"spacerType":"whitespace","paddingSize":"medium",":type":"teq/components/spacer"},"quote":{":type":"teq/components/editorial/editorial-quote"},"tags":{"id":"editorial-tags-56da9b3821","richText":false,":type":"teq/components/editorial/editorial-tags"}},":itemsOrder":["contentfragment","editorial_hero_banne","editorialauthor","editorial_description","imagec785e231-de79-4c8b-a630-3f8ed7f89807","text_975534855","social_video_player","text","image44d61936-b33c-4f9c-a381-39a5ccc21222","text38f28f11-30fb-44d6-a36b-fbd86557f8a6","image961e2249-cad6-4d88-81a1-00bbd97f5b1e","textbd95a264-5cfb-42aa-844b-386c3a5cf336","image4e56198e-cce2-4f43-9a67-d18444671835","text8f661761-b98f-4dfa-97d4-a01d88d70522","image52c790ab-83d4-4c1c-b0f9-85d8273b7acb","text09d84d1d-5ca4-4012-ad6b-d1eb3e76aa9f","spacer","editorial_card_carou","spacer_1863354009","quote","tags"],":type":"wcm/foundation/components/responsivegrid"},"chat":{"title":"Bunji","welcomeMessage":"Hello 👋 I'm Bunji, your mate from Queensland. 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