Sunken barge to boost marine life in Moreton Bay

A 23-metre barge has been sunk in Moreton Bay Marine Park this morning (June 22) at the popular fishing spot Harry Atkinson Artificial Reef (HAAR) just south-east of St Helena Island.

The decommissioned barge, donated by Bhagwan Marine, is the latest addition to the 34 hectare HAAR area, made up of several structures that provide shelter to fish, including a 24 metre ex-tuna fishing vessel and 450 tonnes of concrete pipe.

Speaking from the Moreton Bay scuttling event, National Parks Minister Dr Steven Miles announced a $1 million boost to the artificial reef program over the next two years to boost marine life and fishing opportunities in the area.

"I am pleased to announce an additional $1 million to the artificial reef program on the same day we enhanced marine biodiversity at Moreton Bay, with the sinking of another barge,” Dr Miles said.

“The additional funds will go towards the creation of one new artificial reef within a State Marine Park.

“The variety of habitats created by Moreton Bay’s artificial reefs sustains a diversity of fish species and has been designed to benefit a range of fishing techniquesincluding spearfishing, bottom fishing and game fishing for pelagic species.

The Harry Atkinson Artificial Reef was first established in 1975.

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) Senior Ranger Steve Hoseck said that over time, the structure would provide food and a habitat for a variety of sea creatures.

The Queensland Government has established seven artificial reefs in the Moreton Bay Marine Park, and Mr Hoseck said they had become popular attractions for recreational anglers.

“And these anglers will be very happy to hear about the addition to the Harry Atkinson Artificial Reef,’ he said.

Dr Miles said the scuttling of the barge was a particularly poignant moment for the family of Brisbane flood tugboat hero Peter Fenton, who died from a workplace accident while standing on the barge in December 2011.

“Mr Fenton was a heroic figure during the 2011 Brisbane floods,” Dr Miles said.

“Five years ago, Mr Peter Fenton tragically lost his life on this very vessel we sunk today, when a heavy plastic container being moved from an oil tanker, fell from a crane to the deck of the barge,” he said.

“By sinking the barge in the reef, a part of Peter will be returned to the waters he greatly loved and respected,” Dr Miles said.

Funding for the artificial reef program is supported by the Queensland Government’s $30 million Marine Infrastructure Fund.

More information about Moreton Bay artificial reefs is at http://www.nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks/moreton-bay/zoning/trial_artificial_reef_program.html

ENDS

MEDIA 0412 393 909