In creating a garden based on the coral reef, we hope to encourage visitors to take another look at our much-endangered marine environment, and in so doing to raise awareness of the conservation of a unique part of the world.

Four key symbols have been included in the garden. A densely planted central area recreates the colour, shape and diversity of living coral. The surrounding area of white and silver plants and aggregates recreates dead coral. A raised platform of rusted metal with an inset ‘oil’ lava lamp symbolises a wrecked oil tanker, a major threat to marine life. And a prism lense telescope reflects the Victorian era of ‘smash and grab’, as well as reinforcing the diver’s code of ‘look but don’t touch’ - irresponsible tourism is still an environmental problem.

We hope that the symbols in the garden will be a springboard for questions and further discussion, expanding people’s knowledge and awareness and encouraging them to be more proactive in helping to preserve the marine ecosystem.