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Taskforce continues gaining ground in war on wrecks

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.

February 2021 update

  • 761 fewer derelict vessels in Queensland waterways as a result of the War on Wrecks program.
  • 453 derelict vessels have been removed by Maritime Safety Queensland and partners since the War on Wrecks began.
  • 355 vessels are still of interest. 

See some recently removed wrecks.  

Community consultation forums

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). 

 

War on Wrecks Taskforce Report

The Taskforce delivered its report (PDF, 1.63 MB) to the Queensland Government, which provides a framework to develop a holistic approach towards responsible boat ownership. 

 

Recent removals

January has seen the start of the removal of a cluster of derelict vessels in the Torres Strait. See some of the Torres Strait removals and others from around the state.

A damaged boat being dismantled (JPG, 62 KB) A damaged partially sunken boat being pulled from the water (JPG, 57 KB)

A local contractor has been busy removing some of the 13 derelict vessels from the Torres Strait

How you can help

Email us at WarOnWrecks@msq.qld.gov.au if you:

  • know of the location of an unseaworthy vessel that is a danger to navigation or a threat to the marine environment or public safety
  • own such a vessel and would like to discuss ways of removing it
  • know the identity and contact details of the owners of such vessels
  • think you can help with suggestions to prevent vessels becoming derelict and abandoned in future.
Last updated
29 March 2021