Suspected bomb on Bundaberg beach sparks ADF operation

A dramatic discovery of a mysterious object at a Bundaberg beach sparked an urgent military response before another unexpected twist.

The ADF was called to a popular Bundaberg beach after reports of a suspected naval explosive, only to discover an empty fibreboard cylinder.

Alarm bells were raised and a major defence operation launched after reports an unexplained object had washed up on a popular beach near Bundaberg.

The Australian Defence Force was called in to investigate the discovery of a suspected “Naval Ordnance” found on a stretch of beach about 15 minutes from Bundaberg on Saturday, November 8.

Bundaberg Chief Inspector Grant Marcus said on Monday the device was initially believed to be a “washed up explosive”.

An ADF spokesman said police requested the army attend to the coastal region.

The mystery item was discovered at Mon Repos beach – famous for turtle hatchlings, research and conservation.

Further interrogation of the item revealed it was in fact harmless.

“Defence assessed the item at the scene, where it was identified as an empty Fibreboard cylinder which was disposed of in a rubbish bin,” the ADF spokesman said in a statement.

“In the event that members of the public find suspicious items, suspected of being an unexploded ordnance (UXO), they are reminded to contact local police immediately.

Police will escalate concerns to military experts to assess and dispose of the items safely.

A sailor assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal conducts a search for debris. PHOTO: File.

“Defence routinely assists state and territory policing agencies in the safe recovery or disposal of suspected unexploded military ordnance found in public areas.

“Members of the public should leave the item where it is found.

“Do not touch or disturb it as doing so places themselves and others at risk of injury.”