SEA LIFE Melbourne Welcomes Coowonga

“While the loss of Pinjarra was deeply felt by our team and the Melbourne community, we are incredibly excited to introduce this awe-inspiring animal to our guests,” said Claire Burrell, General Manager at SEA LIFE Melbourne. 

“Our new resident deepens our mission to educate the public on the vital role apex predators play in maintaining the health of Australia’s northern wetland ecosystems.”  

Coowonga has arrived from Rockhampton after travelling across the country through Queensland, NSW and Victoria. Having been identified as posing a risk to the community, his relocation to SEA LIFE Melbourne provides him with a safe, permanent sanctuary while allowing visitors to witness the sheer power and prehistoric beauty of the world’s largest reptile species.  

He has been named after a public vote by the local Melbourne community, in consultation with the Darumbal people in Queensland, keeping him connected to his place of origin. Coowonga is the traditional name of the land he came from before making his journey to SEA LIFE Melbourne. 

Key highlights of the new crocodile exhibit include: 

The arrival marks a new era for SEA LIFE Melbourne. While Coowonga brings his own unique personality and presence, the aquarium remains dedicated to the legacy of conservation awareness that defined Pinjarra’s 13 years in Melbourne. 

“Saltwater crocodiles were once pushed to the brink of extinction,” said Katharine Needham, Head Keeper and Aquarist at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium. 

“By bringing this incredible animal to the heart of Melbourne, we can bridge the gap between the city and the wild, teaching the next generation to respect and protect these modern-day dinosaurs.”