The facility functions as a marine rescue center that rehabilitates injured sharks and rays found in local waters.
Visitors can interact with several species of rays, including Cowtail stingrays and Blue-spotted fantail rays.
The encounter pools are designed with varying depths to allow both human interaction and natural species behavior.
Marine biologists on-site provide information on the 'Irukandji' syndrome, the namesake of the facility, though the center focuses on non-venomous shark and ray species.
The center uses a filtration system designed to mimic natural coastal environments rather than standard chemically-treated aquarium water.
Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters in Anna Bay is an interactive aquarium focusing on the conservation of sharks and rays. Visitors can enter shallow pools to touch and feed various species of rays and sharks under the supervision of marine biologists. The facility operates as a rescue and rehabilitation center for injured marine life. It features multiple pools, including a deep-water section for larger species and an interactive lagoon for smaller rays. Educational talks are provided throughout the day to explain the biological functions and status of the animals. The site emphasizes hands-on learning rather than traditional glass-enclosed viewing. It is a family-oriented facility designed to dispel myths about shark behavior.
The interactive shallow pool where visitors are waist-deep with rays, providing an immersive underwater perspective.
Bring a change of clothes as you will likely get wet while wading in the pools.
Wear comfortable, slip-on shoes or thongs that you don't mind getting damp.
Check the daily feed schedule upon arrival to ensure you catch the interactive feeding demonstrations.
Do not attempt to touch the animals without direct staff supervision or prior demonstration of the correct technique.
Open daily, including public holidays, but operations may shift seasonally for the welfare of the animals.
Listen strictly to staff instructions regarding hand placement for feeding; do not wear loose jewelry that could snag on nets or animals.
