I saw them on the Gold Coast in September 2007, heard later that they had been moved down to Sydney. But why did the profit-oriented Sea World let go of these gems? After all, they are among less than 10 in captivity worldwide. Some time ago there was one in Singapore and two in Japan plus these two, nothing more. Or are they simply satisfied with what the polar bears and dolphins are bringing in?
I think Seaworld is a major attraction and the numbers of people through the door would not have changed much with the loss of the dugongs. They came to Sydney late last year just before the Christmas holidays, so I imagine it was intended they would boost attendances at Sydney Aquarium as there was a fair amount of media coverage and advertising.
