Two new $2.5 million artificial reefs announced for Great Sandy Strait
Offshore tourism in the Wide Bay is set to get a $2.5m boost after a key announcement from the state government.
Fraser Coast
Don't miss out on the headlines from Fraser Coast. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Two new artificial reefs are set to be installed in the Great Sandy Marine Park, with the $2.5m project set to benefit recreational boaties, snorkelers, scuba divers and kayakers.
The announcement was made at the Hervey Bay Boat Club in Urangan on Wednesday.
The two locations will be offshore between Elliott Heads and Woodgate Beach, providing an alternative area for recreational fishing after restrictions were put in place to protect vulnerable ecosystems during marine park rezoning, and Point Vernon, about a kilometre from the shore.
The Hervey Bay site was strategically selected to provide accessibility for small and non-motorised watercraft.
The new artificial reefs will join other diving attractions in the Wide Bay region, including the HMAS Tobruk.
The project will promote a healthier underwater ecosystem, while supporting the regions’ fishing lifestyle and promoting future economic growth of nature-based tourism, Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said during the announcement.
Tenders for the design, fabrication and installation of the two new artificial reefs have been called, and local businesses are encouraged to apply, with the new artificial reefs expected to be installed by late October 2025, weather permitting.
Mr Powell said the two new artificial reefs would provide new destinations for keen divers and reduce pressure on natural reef systems, ensuring a healthier ocean ecosystem for everyone to enjoy.
“Artificial reefs are a fantastic addition to the marine environment as they create thriving underwater ecosystems that attract a diverse range of marine life,” Mr Powell said.
“We know visitors are looking for unique, nature-based experiences and this provides another opportunity to get up and close with Queensland’s amazing sea life.
“We met and held extensive consultation with a range of stakeholders, including traditional owners to ensure these artificial reefs are exactly where they should be.”
Member for Hervey Bay David Lee said he welcomed the prospect of more visitors to the Bay.
“The artificial reef sites are in conservation park zones in the Great Sandy Marine Park, negating any impacts on the commercial fishing sector,” Mr Lee said.
“These new reefs will give locals and visitors alike another reason to visit the Great Sandy Strait and experience all the wonders of our area.”
Hervey Bay Dive Centre owner Ed Gibson said local communities and visitors would welcome the news of the artificial reefs’ coming installation.
“It’s good news for the environment and good news for all who will come to enjoy the new reefs,” Mr Gibson said.
“For fishers, artificial reefs are hotspots for abundant fish populations, snorkelers and scuba divers benefit from being able to explore vibrant underwater habitats, and kayakers can enjoy paddling and fishing in areas with rich biodiversity.”
Deadly Bruce Highway intersection to get multimillion-dollar upgrade
The Premier was back in Maryborough on Thursday, announcing a major upgrade to the deadly intersection where three men died in a horror crash last year.
Apprentice diesel mechanic ready to inspire a new generation of graziers
The youngest ever competitor on Muster Dogs is South Burnett teenager Nathan Obst, who had to fit shooting the show and training his happy offsider around his final year of high school, and he loved every minute of it.