Wonder Reef is constructed from uncoated steel to encourage natural marine growth, and is expected to generate around 32,000 cubic metres of new reef habitat over time.

The ocean and its residents wasted little time moving in, with more than 100 marine species documented around the structures in just the four years since its launch.

The reef and its foundations were quickly encrusted by barnacles and covered by algae, but sponges, crinoids and soft corals have taken hold as the environment has matured.

Schools of trevally circle through the columns while wobbegong sharks rest on the seabed below. Inside the structures and their foundations are found schools of Indian scad, often accompanied by a patrolling grouper.

Divers regularly encounter octopus, lionfish and rays from a variety of species, while leopard sharks and turtles make seasonal appearances, and seahorses are occasionally spotted clinging to the reef’s growing marine life.

Some visitors have even been lucky enough to hear the unmistakable song of passing humpback whales.