Meeting an amazing small tooth sawfish at the Sydney Sea Life Aquarium

Travelling with my young boys we sometimes visit attractions because I think they will appeal to my children, with minimal interest myself. The Sydney Sea Life Aquarium was not that kind of attraction. The reason – I love aquariums and Sydney Sealife Aquarium is as good as it gets. Early in October we spent a week in Darling Harbour the home of Sea Life and I invited two grandparents, my father and my mother–in-law to join us as we explored the underwater environment. I am forever amazed by the diversity and beauty of the underwater environment. Quite frankly, some of the critters on display give the imaginary life forms in the science fiction movie “Avatar” a run for their money. Sydney Sea Liife Aquarium offers an array of different underwater habitats for visitors to explore including mangroves, Sydney Harbour and the Great Barrier Reef. My just turned two year old was riveted for the entire visit, but so was my just turned 69 year old father. Every member of our party had a favourite. Bub Two’s were the giant Japanese Spider Crabs, Bub One’s favourites, relecting his mood on the day (grumpy and a little bit obnoxious) were the Crown of Thorns Starfish and Moray Eels. My father and I were feeling nostalgic, as a result we spent extra time observing the common fish of our childhoods, bream, whiting and tailor. My father, an avid fisherman provided us with unofficial commentary as we progressed through the displays. with reminiscence from his own life spent fishing Australia’s streams and oceans. For her part, my mother-in-law, a child and youth librarian engaged with my boys over the interactive educational displays that proliferate at Sea Life, and that contribute to make the visit informative and not just entertaining. This is one attraction that I look forward to revisiting next time we are in beautiful Sydney. Sydney Sea Life Aquarium is open 9am-8pm 7 days a week (last entry 7pm). Tickets are cheaper if you pre-book them online and if you bulk purchase tickets with those for another Sydney attraction (e.g. The Sydney Tower Eye).

Bub Two comparing what he weighs with the weight of food consumed daily by a dugong.

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