Great Barrier Reef hosts water polo exhibition match

Water polo athletes from the NSW Institute of Sport participated in a once in a lifetime opportunity on the weekend – playing their sport amidst the corals of the Great Barrier Reef.

In a world first, Sunlover Reef Cruises staged a one-off water polo event at its Moore Reef Marine Base, using an inflatable court placed in a deep area alongside the pontoon.

The idea came from the Cairns Water Polo Club, which hosted the Aussie Stingers Women’s and the Men’s Junior water polo squads – which includes many NSWIS athletes – for a training camp.

President Jesse O’Hara said they’re here to train before the FINA World Championships.

“It’s amazing to see some of the world’s top water polo players in Cairns and to be able to host an event on the Great Barrier Reef is pretty special,” he said.

“The beach water polo format of the sport is becoming more popular across the world, with FINA trialing the event at the upcoming World Championships.”

Group Marketing Manager for Sunlover Reef Cruises, Sarah Butler said the company has a long history of embracing innovative events and activities.

“We are thrilled that the Cairns Water Polo Club approached us with this opportunity to host some of Australia’s best athletes, support our local club and also showcase the Great Barrier Reef,” she said.