Fires, planks removed: Woolgoolga’s iconic shipwreck vandalised after storms

There is evidence of planks being damaged – and in some places removed – and fires lit both inside the wreck and around its heritage-protected hull.

The 310-ton timber barquentine Buster, measuring 39 metres in length, was built in Nova Scotia, Canada in 1884.

Storms have exposed Woolgoolga’s iconic shipwreck attracting large crowds of sightseers.

But NSW Heritage authorities have noticed some disturbing signs of recent vandalism – even evidence of fires being lit inside the wreck and around its heritage-protected hull.

Buster was wrecked on Woolgoolga Beach on a stormy night in February 1893, on its way from Sydney to New Zealand with a load of timber. During a storm, it lost its anchor and was washed onto the beach where it has remained ever since.

A magnificent sunrise over the shipwreck of Buster on Woolgoolga Beach captured by Ian Spagnolo.

The 39-metre timber barque was built in Canada in 1884.

Frames and fastenings can often be seen protruding from the sand marking its location but the recent wild weather, including heavy storms and rough seas, has made the ship more visible than usual and crowds have been flocking to see it.

The wreck is located to the north of the surf club just south of the lake entrance.

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Woopi's shipwreck, Buster glowing in the morning sun.

Tim Smith OAM, Director Operations at Heritage NSW, said the agency’s compliance officers and regional Coffs Harbour staff noticed some concerning impacts while onsite mapping the wreck.

“There is evidence of planks being damaged – and in some places removed – and fires lit both inside the wreck and around its heritage-protected hull. This is illegal and inappropriate behaviour,” Mr Smith said.

In May 2019 the shipwreck was damaged by hoons on a beach joy ride.

Timbers can also become dislodged during storm events or through the gradual erosion process and Heritage NSW has been working with the Solitary Islands Marine Park to manage these timbers.

Heritage NSW implores anybody who has recovered any elements from the site, such as Oregon hull planks, to immediately report their location to Heritage NSW or Marine Park staff so they can be documented.

An outline of what Buster would have looked like when it shipped timber in the 1800s. (Supplied: Department Of Primary Industries)

Mr Smith said historic shipwrecks in NSW are protected under law, with substantial penalties for anyone found to illegally damage or disturb them.

“We must all work together to preserve and protect this irreplaceable heritage,” he said.

Anyone with information about damage to the Buster is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Heritage NSW at [e-mail].