New artificial reefs begin deployment off Hervey Bay

The first stage of a construction project that will develop two new artificial reefs in Hervey Bay has commenced this week.

Two building blocks, weighting a total 46 tonnes, left Gladstone on a barge on Monday (25th May) today. They represent the first of 30 modules destined for reefs located on the western side of Fraser Island.

Commenting on the development, Queensland Minister for National Parks and the Great Barrier Reef Dr Steven Miles said the two new artificial reefs will create new habitat for marine life along with recreational fishing and diving opportunities.

Minister Miles explained “fish and marine life will be attracted to the new structures almost immediately (although) it will be at least another 18 months before habitat is fully established.

Costing $1.5 million, both reef sites will receive 15 reef concrete modules, each five metres high and weighing 23 tonnes.

The reefs have been funded through a Marine Infrastructure Fund - allocated over four years to provide enhanced recreational fishing and boating opportunities for the Queensland boating community.

Artificial reefs attract and sustain a wide diversity of marine life by providing protection from predators and a supply of rich food sources.

Dr Miles added “the reefs have multiple openings, some large enough to allow diver access and great swim throughs.

“These openings will allow maximum light penetration while offering great protection for various species of fish.”

Deployment is estimated to take two days per site, subject to suitable weather conditions.

The reefs are similar to an artificial reef deployed off Shoalhaven in New South Wales.

Top image shows an artist's impression of the completed reef.

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