Derelict vessel removal funded

The Palaszczuk Government has allocated $20 million in the State Budget to remove derelict vessels spoiling Queensland’s beautiful coast.

Speaking from Cairns today, Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the funding, spread over four years, would allow Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) to step in when boat owners refused to cooperate in the removal process.

“MSQ has a program to identify and respond to neglected vessels,” Mr Bailey said. 

“They currently have about 270 boats of concern on their list, and this funding will allow them to prioritise the most serious navigational and environmental hazards. 

“For example, in Far North Queensland, MSQ recently removed and broke up a 34-metre steel-hull ship which ran aground on Inset Reef in 2009, and again on Madge Reef near Horn Island.” 

Mr Bailey said before a civil contractor stepped in, every effort would be made to ensure boat owners were held accountable. 

“We’re determined to protect our environment from irresponsible boat owners,” Mr Bailey said. 

“It’s always the owners’ responsibility to manage the removal of their boat at their own cost. 

“But this funding will be of great help if boaties don’t comply.”

 Mr Bailey said MSQ has had success in recovering costs from owners in the past. 

“Recently, the Townsville District Court awarded MSQ almost $800,000, ordering the owner of Defender pay for the State’s disposal of the vessel,” he said. 

“These kinds of outcomes send a clear message to irresponsible owners, that they can’t just dump and run.” 

Member for Cairns Michael Healy said the news would be particularly welcome in the Far North. 

“We know this issue creates concern among locals, given our proximity to the Reef and world class fishing zones, so it’s heartening to see something being done,” he said. 

Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said the $20 million cemented the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to protecting the environment along the state’s iconic coastlines. 

“The worst of Queensland’s coastal eyesores will now be consigned to the scrapheap,” she said.

ENDS

Media contact: Carmel Robertson: 0439 347 875