Ex-HMAS Tobruk
Queensland’s newest dive site
The ex-HMAS Tobruk was officially opened to divers on Monday, February 25, 2019. Scuttled in mid-2018 approximately 32 kilometres (17 nautical miles) off the coast, halfway between Bundaberg and Hervey Bay in the Great Sandy Marine Park, the ex-HMAS Tobruk is much more open than a standard military wreck, which allows more light in and is a key point of difference for the site. A significant amount of growth has already begun to form across the wreck and a huge variety of marine life has made the site home, including turtles, rays, groupers, cod and Spanish mackerel. What sets the ex-HMAS Tobruk apart from other wreck dives is that certified wreck divers can swim over 100 metres in one direction inside the ship. Troops areas, crew quarters, the tank deck and other sections are also all waiting to be explored. Divers can also expect to see and hear migrating humpback whales as they traverse through the Great Sandy Marine Park from May to November.
LOCATION
Approximately 32 kilometres (17 miles) offshore, the site is located 40 kilometres (22 miles) from Bundaberg and 46 kilometres (25 miles) from Hervey Bay. Dive tour vessels can reach the site within an hour.
The ex-HMAS Tobruk site is a restricted access area in the marine parks, and entry is prohibited without a permit or written approval. This applies to everyone – all vessels, divers and snorkellers. Be sure to check with your operator, who should be able to assist in getting all permissions in order.
It is important to remember that wreck diving is potentially dangerous. Ensure to plan your dive and dive your plan. The Ex-HMAS Tobruk dive wreck is a partnership between the Queensland Government, Bundaberg and Fraser Coast Regional Councils; creating a world-class dive site in the Great Sandy Marine Park.