Gayundah bow to be relocated within wreck site

Published 06 September 2019

Moreton Bay Regional Council has engaged a professional contractor to move a collapsed part of the Gayundah Shipwreck bow, to the hull of the wreck.

Spokesperson for Asset Maintenance Cr Adam Hain said a crane would be moved into place in the coming weeks, once final approvals have been obtained from all relevant government agencies.

“The Gayundah shipwreck was placed at the base of the Woody Point cliffs way back in 1958 but the condition of the ship has deteriorated greatly in recent years.

“In 2016 the top part of the bow collapsed, and is now resting precariously on the hull. The bow is considered likely to eventually fall further, and Council is concerned this may injure a member of the public.

“Unfortunately, despite warnings, signage, and improved fencing, some people continue to climb over and inside the rusting wreck - which presents an unacceptable public safety risk.

“We’ve received an independent safety analysis report that’s recommended a number of interventions, including relocation of the ship’s bow which is at risk of collapsing at any moment, and increasing public awareness of the danger posed by the wreck.

“The bow will be carefully removed via crane, and relocated into the rear of the wreck, which is a more desirable outcome for the heritage values, rather than letting it fall and break on impact.”

“Further, the State Government has previously advised that moving the bow from the wreck’s location would not likely be supported due to its location within the National Marine Park Zone”.

It means that the road at the intersection of Lilla Street and Gayundah Esplanade will need to be closed for about half a day and the local bus service will be rerouted during this time.

Locals will be notified of the exact day and time the bow will be relocated, depending on tide movements and government approvals.