The Two Oceans Aquarium is my soft spot; the rock, in this instance, is greater Cape Town.
I could be working anywhere in Cape Town. Instead, I arrived at a construction site at the V&A Waterfront in mid-1995 for a job interview, for the position of Information Desk Assistant at the Two Oceans Aquarium.
Eighteen years down the line – a fishing line with a difference, might I add – I have truly found my soft spot. I often refer to the Aquarium as my home away from home.
I grew up with very little knowledge of the ocean, except for that which I was taught in school. The two oceans lessons I remember in primary school comprised a warm and a cold current, with colourful fish in the warm ocean and grey fish in the cold ocean.
Working at the Two Oceans Aquarium has taught me that there is a whole new world in each of these oceans. I have learnt to respect our oceans and all they have to offer. Never in my wildest dreams (and I’ve had some of these too) did I think I would be afforded such an amazing opportunity.
After 18 years, the Aquarium still has the ability to “WOW” me. Just last week I had an absolute “WOW” moment. I don’t need to tell you that it’s all about timing with my fish colleagues.
While wandering past the I&J Predator Exhibit at approximately 7.30am, I happened to notice a predator feed taking place. Now, obviously, in 18 years I’ve been to many predator feeds. The difference with this one, though, was that I was the only person watching. I felt so special having this experience all to myself. It’s one of the many perks of working at the Aquarium.
Another “WOW” moment was watching a spider crab moult. It’s a very complicated process, as the spider crab could become trapped in its own shell. These are experiences I will never forget. How many people get to go home at the end of their workday, and share with family and friends what it takes for a spider crab to moult?
I am sad that I have never had the opportunity to learn to swim, and will therefore never have the opportunity to dive and experience our two oceans up close. The Two Oceans Aquarium is not just my job or my salary at the end of the month. My Two Oceans Aquarium is a new experience every day. As I wander through and experience the Two Oceans up close and personal on foot whenever I can, I know: yes, I have found my soft spot.
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