In July 2018, the Queensland Government committed $20 million over 4 years towards removing derelict and illegally
dumped vessels from Queensland waterways. The Minister for Transport and Main Roads announced the establishment of a War on
Wrecks Taskforce (the Taskforce), comprised of Parliamentary and industry representatives to make recommendations to the
government for a holistic response to these issues.
Maritime Safety Queensland has been investigating the root causes of vessel abandonment and working with partner agencies and owners to remove or rectify derelict vessels around Queensland.
Video transcript
Queensland is world-renowned for its beautiful waterways.
From the tip of Cape York to the Gold Coast, from the Great Barrier Reef through to our rivers and creeks, there's nowhere better to dive, fish or simply cruise.
And shipping is vital to our state's economy.
That's why we've committed $20 million to the War on Wrecks program to remove derelict vessels and other hazards to help make these waterways pristine and safe.
Maritime Safety Queensland, along with their partner agencies, are cleaning up Queensland.
And we need your help to finish the job by identifying existing vessels that have become waterway hazards as well as preventing the further abandonment of boats.
Overview:
Since the program launched in 2018, the War on Wrecks Taskforce has resulted in 843 fewer derelict vessels in our waterways.
Ranging from sunken tinnies to barges—some barely recognisable—we've been making your waterways safer and cleaner.
In the 2020-21 financial year alone, the program has been responsible for the removal of 234 hazards from our bays, creeks and islands.
We have another 150 vessels are on our to do list.
Regions (option 1):
Every part of Queensland has benefitted from the program…
[Cairns] In Cairns, whether you enjoy snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef or boating in tropical waters, there is now 110 less wrecks to detract from the regions beauty, and we're monitoring another 36.
[Townsville] If you're cruising around Magnetic Island or venturing out to the Hinchinbrook Channel, there are 74 fewer wrecks across the beaches and coastal areas around Townsville, making it safer with another 7 being monitored.
[Mackay/Whitsunday] Known for its freshwater dams and hidden fishing spots, we are protecting the environment with 66 fewer derelicts, and we are managing 10 more wrecks.
[Gladstone] Think coral cays, rivers and tropical islands. Unfortunately abandoned vessels have caused issues for the beaches and ports in the Gladstone region. Since July 2018, the clean-up in this region means 106 fewer abandoned, and we have another 15 on our radar.
[Brisbane] Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast; we want these areas to be known as home to a treasure trove of sandy stretches, not navigation and pollution hazards. To date, the War on Wrecks program has been responsible for a decrease of 487 derelict vessels to improve the environment, and another 82 are being monitored by the team.
Wrap-up:
Now, we want you on board to help develop a whole-of-life approach towards responsible boat ownership, all the way through from manufacture to responsible disposal. We are looking at ways to ensure everyone can safely enjoy Queensland's marine environment and invite you to work with us so we can all continue to enjoy safer, cleaner seas.
Join the conversation and register for a regional forum. Search War on Wrecks.
The Taskforce conducted a successful community engagement and consultation process, meeting with stakeholders around the state and holding forums in Cairns, Noosa, Wynnum and Gladstone in August and September 2020. During these sessions, the Taskforce discussed options for reducing the number of derelict vessels in our waterways and creating a culture of responsible boat ownership in Queensland.
These forums focused on the removal program and the implementation of Taskforce recommendations. The Taskforce sought feedback on potential changes to licensing, registration and vessel identification. View a summary of the community discussions (PDF, 206 KB).
