In early 2017, Merlin Entertainments made the strategic decision to close the Manly SEA LIFE Aquarium due to the ageing condition of the facility. This triggered the highly complex relocation of more than 2,000 animals—including sharks, stingrays, turtles and penguins—requiring purpose-built transport tanks and a meticulously staged methodology. Given the fragility of the marine life, the operation demanded absolute precision in planning and execution.

Linked was engaged to manage the entire relocation alongside Merlin’s curatorial teams, coordinating the safe transfer of animals to aquariums across Australia. The operation involved cranes, forklifts and specialised lifting equipment, including a 350-tonne crane at Darling Harbour that drew crowds as a grey nurse shark was carefully lifted in a transfer bag more than 100 metres above the water. The project remains a unique milestone in Linked’s portfolio, showcasing our ability to deliver high-risk, time-critical operations involving sensitive living assets across multiple sites and stakeholder groups.