Empowering the next generation: Minderoo Foundation and Scitech join forces for ocean education

05 Feb 2026 – Minderoo Foundation is partnering with iconic Western Australian institution Scitech to deliver a bold new immersive exhibition highlighting the vital role oceans play in sustaining life on Earth – and why their protection is more critical than ever.

Oceans: The World Beneath the Waves will take visitors aboard a research vessel for a fully immersive journey through five extraordinary marine environments: the coast, coral reef, kelp forest, deep sea and polar seas.

Through hands‑on, interactive experiences, the exhibition will showcase how science, technology and innovation are transforming ocean conservation, while empowering visitors to understand how their own actions can help safeguard marine ecosystems for generations to come.

Minderoo Foundation’s $3.5 million investment will enable Scitech to inspire audiences at its Discovery Centre in Perth, before taking the experience to communities across Australia and around the world.

After a 12‑month residency at the Scitech Discovery Centre from October 2026, Oceans will tour leading international science centres, engaging hundreds of thousands of people globally.

A second, regionally focused travelling version of the exhibition will also bring the story of ocean conservation to communities throughout Australia.

Dr Andrew Forrest AO said the world’s ocean was the “drum beat” of life and it was vital to get kids to understand the ocean’s role.

“Any child who looks out upon the ocean feels this sense of awe, this sense of inspiration, this sense of infinity,” Dr Forrest said.

“However, the ocean is not infinite, it’s not forever — we have to care for it. It’s being destroyed at a greater rate, probably, than the terrestrial environment.

“We need kids to understand just how wonderful our marine environment is, it’s hugely important for them, for their own careers and for the world at large. It will be today’s kids who really take charge of our planet in the future and determine its survival. So Scitech is doing a critical job in helping kids understand that right here in WA.”

Nicola Forrest AO said Minderoo’s partnership with Scitech would bring marine conservation to life for a new generation.

“These children are our future scientists and environmental guardians who will play a vital role in ensuring health of our oceans,” she said.

“The exhibition will travel to Western Australian schools in regional towns and centres where Scitech’s unique, immersive education programs will bring to life both the problems and solutions facing our oceans.

“I am thrilled that Minderoo’s scientific expertise and its engagement with communities, especially children, will come together with Scitech in a partnership which will combine science and storytelling to teach the ocean protectors of tomorrow.”

Scitech CEO, Dr John Chappell, said the wonder and diversity of ocean environments provided a fascinating entry-point to engage Western Australians in real-world science, technology and innovation.

“Oceans cover about 71 per cent of our planet and are essential for all life on Earth,” said Dr Chappell.

“Science, technology, engineering and mathematics play a key role in helping us understand more about marine environments, and creating solutions to protect and conserve these vital ecosystems.

“We hope this exhibition will spark curiosity, inspire action and create the next generation of ocean champions.”

Designed and built on site in the Scitech Workshop, the creation of Oceans will draw on a diverse mix of expertise including science communication, computer modelling, software, electronics, fabrication and design.

Scitech will also collaborate with research and industry partners, including Minderoo Foundation, to bring the latest marine science and conservation innovation to life for visitors.

Minderoo Foundation CEO, John Hartman, said the partnership reflected Minderoo’s commitment to deepening understanding of the world’s oceans through science, learning and public engagement.

“Our oceans sustain life on Earth, yet much of what happens beneath the surface remains out of sight and out of mind,” Mr Hartman said.

“This exhibition brings world‑leading marine science to life in a powerful, immersive way, helping people of all ages understand why ocean health matters and how informed choices and innovation can protect it for future generations.”

Scitech is a leading producer and exporter of interactive science exhibitions, currently touring 10 exhibitions internationally with more than a million people experiencing its award-winning creations each year.

Oceans: The World Beneath the Waves will open at the Scitech Discovery Centre in West Perth in October 2026.

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