The Great Barrier Reef: Drain the Oceans

Programme Overview

The Great Barrier Reef – a compelling documentary episode on 5SELECT that delves into one of maritime history’s most enduring enigmas. In this installment, a team of maritime historians, marine archaeologists and oceanographers converge to examine the mysterious disappearance of the SS Waratah, a passenger liner that vanished without a trace in 1909. The investigation is set against the stunning backdrop of Australia’s iconic reef system, offering viewers a rare blend of historical intrigue and cutting‑edge underwater exploration.

What to Expect

The episode opens with a concise recap of the Waratah’s final voyage, highlighting the unanswered questions that have haunted researchers for over a century. Expert commentators provide insight into the ship’s construction, its route, and the prevailing theories surrounding its loss. The narrative then shifts beneath the waves as the crew joins a state‑of‑the‑art remotely operated vehicle (ROV) expedition. Viewers are taken on a high‑definition journey to the reef’s seabed, where the ROV scans for wreckage, structural remnants and any artefacts that could illuminate the tragedy. Detailed sonar mapping and close‑up footage reveal the reef’s complex topography, illustrating both the challenges and the opportunities it presents for discovery.

Why Watch

This episode appeals to a broad UK audience, from history enthusiasts fascinated by early 20th‑century maritime mysteries to nature lovers drawn to the Great Barrier Reef’s vibrant ecosystems. The combination of scholarly analysis and immersive visual technology makes the programme both educational and visually arresting, offering a fresh perspective on a story that has long been shrouded in speculation. Its investigative tone and spectacular underwater cinematography ensure an engaging viewing experience that aligns with the high‑quality documentary standards expected on 5SELECT.

Production and Viewing Details

Produced as part of the ongoing The Great Barrier Reef series, this episode maintains the series’ reputation for meticulous research and cinematic excellence. Airing on 5SELECT, it fits neatly into the channel’s commitment to delivering thought‑provoking, fact‑based entertainment for British television audiences. Viewers can anticipate a well‑structured narrative, expert commentary, and state‑of‑the‑art ROV footage that together provide a definitive guide to the Waratah mystery and the marine environment that may hold its answers.