Statement from the Minister for Environment

History was made when ex-HMAS Tobruk was scuttled off the coast of Bundaberg on June 29 to become a world-class dive site.

The ex-navy ship is currently sitting on the ocean floor in the Great Sandy Marine Park, in the correct location, and on her starboard side.

The Queensland Government is currently working with the contractor and dive operators to assess the safety of the wreck and to scope dive experience opportunities.

At no time did the Government interfere in the scuttling process. Professional contractors were engaged to undertake this important work, and expert advice determined the timing of the scuttling.

Any suggestion to the contrary is completely false.

It is disappointing that the LNP is talking down this important tourism opportunity for the Bundaberg and Fraser Coast regions.

Advice from dive operators indicates that in its current position, the wreck will cater to all levels of diving, with the port side currently sitting in about 12m of water, and allows many identifiable features to be accessed.

The contractor is undertaking inspections and will be submitting a report to the Government.

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