Works to ensure safety and stability of Tangalooma Wrecks

by | Sep 17, 2015 | Club News

11th September 2015

To Whom It May Concern,

Between 1963 and 1984, the Queensland Government established an anchorage on the western side of Moreton Island by scuttling old dredges and hoppen barges. For more than 30 years, the Tangalooma wrecks have provided recreational boaties with a safe haven and picturesque anchorage.

Inevitably over time, the wrecks have become unstable and will require remediation works to achieve a level of safety. Maritime Safety Queensland, with National Parks, Sport and Recreation in support, are currently developing a scope of works which will ensure the safety and stability of the wrecks for the next period. Broadly there works will involve;

  • The lowering of all high structures, placing them alongside or in their hulls,
  • Stabillising hulls that have been underscored by the current,
  • Removal or broken deck plates, and
  • Replacement of signage.

The works are scheduled to take place for a period of 5 days, Monday to Friday, in the month of November 2015 by a Marine Civil Contractor. Their works will most likely involve a barge and associated equipment. It is expected that there will be some disruption to the access of the wrecks during the period. Further advice on the timing of the works and access limitations will be provided once the contract has been awarded and works methodology confirmed.

I take this opportunity to remind you that the wrecks are currently structually unstable. It is recommended that people keep well clear of the wrecks, avoiding activities such as mooring boats to structures, climbing on or swimming through them. The works will results in a safer and more efficient anchorage. However due to the dynamic nature of the marine environment there will be an ongoing risk of personal injury and the public will be advised not to climb or swim through the structures.

If you have any questions, please contact the Assistant Harbour Master, on 07 3632 7500.

Yours sincerely

Glenn N Hale

Regional Harbour Master (Brisbane)