Dive Mooloolaba News
Dive ex-HMAS Brisbane
Queensland's Sunshine Coast is an ideal spot for water sports of all types, but it would appear that there is an ever growing number of people visiting the area and not following the rules that are very clearly in place. There are increased reports of illegal fishing in the restricted marine park where dive ex-HMAS Brisbane operates. This is a part of the country that is renowned for its scuba diving options, and the feeling is that if the illegal activities continue there, the region will have a difficult time maintaining its position as a world-class scuba dive location.
What makes this situation all the more troublesome is that there are plenty of other great fishing spots to be found along the Sunshine Coast. The people engaging in these illegal activities are hurting the dive HMAS Brisbane area for no good reason, and it is having an adverse effect on both the divers and the sea life that they come to see. The wreck actually serves as a nursery for all kinds of sea creatures, which in turn helps the other fishing spots along the coast. The dive site pulls in visitors from all over the world, thanks in part to its amazing reputation. That could quickly be put in jeopardy if the current situation is allowed to spiral out of control.
The dive HMAS Brisbane site is one that is naturally evolving, as coral grows and new marine life is attracted to the area. The old warship was taken to the area and sunk using explosive charges back in 2005. In the years since, the scuba diving industry has thrived, as more and more people head to the area to go down and take a look at the truly unique underwater world that is constantly evolving there. It is important that the dive area remain clear of boats that are not cleared to be there, as their presence can create a real danger for divers. There is the distinct possibility that fishing lines and nets from these illegal fishing boats can pose a serious risk to divers down exploring the sunken wreck.
The ex-HMAS Brisbane area is protected under the Nature Conservation Act 1992, which means access to the area is restricted. The entire area is patrolled by Rangers who take all reports of illegal activities very seriously. If they catch anyone fishing in the restricted area, they will issue an immediate fine in the amount of $341. Only boats who have prior written consent or authority can enter the area, and those are usually reserved for commercial scuba dive operators. If you are planning on visiting the area for a spot of scuba diving, it is important that you are aware of the laws that are in place. The best way to ensure that you are covered is to make a reservation with a recognised guided dive company. You can also obtain permits to dive by visiting Scuba World Mooloolaba or Sunreef Mooloolaba.