Canberra a drawcard for lovers of the deep

A DECADE has passed since the HMAS Canberra sank beneath the waves off Ocean Grove.

Dozens of boats flocked to the open water to watch the warship scuttled on October 4, 2009.

The once imposing frigate, which served between 1981 and 2005, now lies in 28m of water and is a thriving dive site.

It was the first artificial reef in Victoria created specifically for diving, with flight decks, bridge, engine rooms, galley and the accommodation quarters becoming a marine wonderland.

Scubabo Dive Victoria operator Joel Howell said about 10,000 people had explored the ship since it was sunk.

Mr Howell said the ship was a boost for the economy, with most people doing the dive and then spending at local businesses.

“It’s been such an attribute for the local community,” he said.

“You’ve got so many people who stay and spend a night in the region and go to our restaurants.”

The former HMAS Canberra is managed by Parks Victoria, which conducts regular inspections to monitor the condition of the vessel.

The site was closed in 2011 after parts of the ship started separating from the main structure and the vessel was listing more than expected, but was reopened a few months later.

“The wreck is subject to natural environmental impacts that are gradually deteriorating its condition, including strong currents, tides and storm surges, and has needed to be closed in the past to rectify safety concerns,” a Parks Victoria spokesman said.

“Parks Victoria is committed to providing world-class nature-based experiences while ensuring the natural environment is protected for future generations to enjoy.

“The wreck is currently safe and open for divers to enjoy.”

An array of fish have made the ship their home since it was sunk 10 years ago, with the former warship now serving a new purpose as a healthy marine ecosystem.

Seaweeds, encrusted invertebrates and reef fish are some of the spectacular sights divers are treated to, with different parts of the vessel providing habitats for different species.

Tourism Greater Geelong and the Bellarine deputy executive Tracy Carter said within a few years of the ship being sunk the region saw a boom in tourists seeking a dive experience.

Ms Carter said the HMAS Canberra was complementary to the array of dives available in the Geelong region.

“They don’t just come to do one, they do all the different experiences in the area when they’re here,” she said. “The unique marine life we have makes it a really special area to dive. “It’s a very rewarding dive.” Ms Carter said the HMAS Canberra had helped to establish the Geelong region as a coastal tourist destination alongside the Queenscliff dolphin swims and fishing charters.