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Australian Museum Launches Major Shark Exhibition Featuring Conservationist Valerie Taylor

exhibition · 2026-03-24

The Australian Museum in Sydney has opened 'Sharks,' its largest internally produced exhibition. The launch event featured conservationist Valerie Taylor, who spoke about the ecological importance of sharks, noting approximately 183 species inhabit Australian waters. The exhibition includes scientific models, photography from the Australian Geographic Nature Photography of the Year show, and interactive elements simulating a shark's perspective. It aims to foster discussions about ocean conservation, climate change, and the species' role in marine ecosystems, having attracted around 30,000 visitors during a recent school holiday period.

Key facts

  • The Australian Museum created its biggest homegrown exhibition titled 'Sharks.'
  • Conservationist Valerie Taylor spoke at the opening about sharks' critical role in ocean health.
  • Roughly half of all shark species exist around Australia, totaling about 183 types.
  • The exhibition includes interactive displays and photography from Australian Geographic Nature Photography of the Year.
  • Approximately 30,000 people visited during a two-week school holiday period in September.

Entities

Artists

  • Valerie Taylor
  • Jacques Cousteau
  • Ron Taylor

Institutions

  • Australian Museum
  • National Geographic
  • Lizard Island Research Station

Locations

  • Sydney
  • Australia

Sources