Ep 9. Journey to the Sacred Sea

In this episode of NOVA titled “Journey to the Sacred Sea,” viewers are taken on a fascinating expedition to explore the sacred sea of the indigenous people of Western Australia. The Ningaloo Reef is a World Heritage site, and the home to over 500 species of fish and 300 species of coral, however, it also holds a deeper cultural significance that has been shrouded in mystery; the reef is a sacred location for the aboriginal people, who believe that the sea contains the essence of their ancestors.

The show follows a group of scientists, environmentalists, and indigenous people, as they embark on a journey to not only discover the wonders of the Ningaloo Reef, but also to gain a deeper understanding of its cultural significance. Viewers are given a glimpse into the lives of the people who live there and learn about their rich culture and traditions, which have been passed down through generations.

The journey begins with a helicopter ride over the Ningaloo Reef, which offers a bird’s eye view of the vast expanse of turquoise water, interwoven with intricate patterns of coral formations. The team then sets sail on a specially designed ocean vessel that has been equipped with the latest scientific equipment to help them study every aspect of the reef. They capture images of vibrant sea life, such as the playful dolphin, the majestic whale shark, and the elusive dugong, which can only be found in this sea.

Through interviews with the aboriginal people, the team discovers that the Ningaloo Reef has always been considered a sacred location because they believe that it is the place where their ancestors entered the sea. According to their beliefs, the sea holds their essence, and when they pass, their spirits return to the sea. The team also learns about the importance of the reef as a source of food for the aboriginal people, who have been fishing and hunting here for generations.

Viewers are then taken on an underground journey to explore the mysterious and hidden world of the underground stream that flows underneath the reef. The team uses advanced equipment to map out the underground caves and discover unique forms of life, such as glow-in-the-dark organisms and coral gardens, that live in the darkness.

The episode also offers a look into the challenges facing the Ningaloo Reef, including bleaching caused by global warming and pollution caused by industrial activities. The team works to study the impact of these activities and explores potential solutions to protect and preserve this sacred location.

Overall, “Journey to the Sacred Sea” is a visually stunning and culturally rich exploration of one of the world’s most remarkable natural wonders. It shines a light on the importance of respecting and preserving cultural and ecological treasures and the need to balance environmental protection with economic and industrial development. Viewers will leave the episode with a deeper appreciation for the beauty of the Ningaloo Reef and the rich culture of the aboriginal people who call it home.