Seahorse hotels installed at Cockatoo Island / Wareamah

These mild steel structures will become encrusted with algae, sponges and other organisms, creating a thriving habitat for seahorses. As they disintegrate over time, they will leave behind a natural environment perfect for these unique creatures.

The Cockatoo Island Marine Restoration Pilot Project is a collaborative initiative between the Harbour Trust and SIMS to advance the scientific study and restoration of the marine environment at Cockatoo Island.

During initial visual assessments of the marine environment, a White’s seahorse was discovered at Cockatoo Island, marking the farthest known extension of this species into the Port Jackson estuary. The White’s seahorse is endemic to southeastern Australia and can be found in Sydney Harbour, Port Stephens, Port Hacking, and other regions of NSW and QLD. This discovery opens new avenues for the Sydney Seahorse Project aimed to support the recovery of this endangered species.

A key action from the Cockatoo Island / Wareamah Draft Master Plan is to support Sydney Harbour biodiversity and enhance rehabilitation of the waters around Cockatoo Island / Wareamah. This will create new marine, interpretive and educational opportunities for visitors to learn about the life of the harbour. The Cockatoo Island / Wareamah Master Plan outlines a vision to reactivate and transform the island into the vibrant heart of Western Sydney Harbour and is due to be published mid-2024.

For more information on the Cockatoo Island Marine Restoration Pilot Project, visit the project page.