Tourists to dive into new artificial reefs in Great Sandy Marine Park
- Two new artificial reefs will be installed in the Great Sandy Marine Park
- Planned for south of Bundaberg (between Elliott Heads and Woodgate Beach) and off Point Vernon at Hervey Bay
- Tenders for the $2.5 million project have been called with the reefs expected to be installed by late October 2025, weather permitting.
The Crisafulli Government has announced two new artificial reefs will be installed in the Great Sandy Marine Park in a $2.5 million project to benefit recreational boaties, fishers, snorkellers, scuba divers, kayakers.
The first location, south of Bundaberg, offshore between Elliott Heads and Woodgate Beach, will provide an alternative area for recreational fishing after restrictions were put in place to protect vulnerable ecosystems during marine park rezoning.
Site two, one kilometre from the Point Vernon shoreline at Hervey Bay, has been strategically selected to provide accessibility for small and non-motorised watercraft.
The project will promote a healthier underwater ecosystem, while supporting the regions' fishing lifestyle and promoting future economic growth of nature-based tourism.
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.
As part of its commitment to deliver a fresh start and make Queensland the number one destination in Australia again, the Crisafulli Government is also developing Destination 2045: Queensland's Tourism Future, a 20-year tourism master plan.
By listening to Queenslanders, the 20-year tourism plan will deliver growth in tourism, attracting investment, supporting jobs, and accelerating infrastructure and experiences.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the two new artificial reefs will 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,' Minister 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." said Minister Powell.
Local Hervey Bay MP, David Lee, 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, snorkellers and scuba divers benefit from being able to explore vibrant underwater habitats, and kayakers can enjoy paddling and fishing in areas with rich biodiversity."
