Preparation & Location of HMAS Adelaide

Before any ship is sunk It must be cleaned and stripped to ensure that it meets internationally recognised standards for artificial reefs. If the ship is to be diveable, then access holes must be cut into the hull and superstructure so that every compartment is open to divers. At least a years work is required before the ship can be scuttled. It is anticipated there will be local job opportunities for this work.

The necessary modifications as displayed in a copy of the Proposed Cleanup Guidelines for Disposal Of Ocean Vessels, used by the Artificial Reef Society of British Columbia (drafted by the Environment Canada, Environmental Protection Branch, Pacific and Yukon Region, February 1998). This group have sunk six ships to date in Canada alone and have assisted in the sinking of the Swan.

These Guidelines Consist of:

  • Salvage & Recycling
  • Biological Assessment
  • Potential negative impacts of artificial reefs
  • Phase Activity Impact / Consequence
  • Obstruction to navigation and Trawling
  • Reef simulation
  • Economical Assessment

The site chosen for the reef must take into consideration the following:

 

  • Site location will minimise impact on the local coastline
  • Attraction of fish will increase local biodiversity
  • Site selection is on flat sandy bottom – no impact on local reefs
  • Safe distance from shipping lanes and navigational transit areas
  • Away from commercial fishing areas
  • Close proximity to boat launching facilities, other tourist attractions and accommodation.
  • Ability to improve marine life in an area of low activity
  • Minimal currents and no natural reefs in close proximity

Surveys have already been undertaken by CCARP members with the favoured location being approximately 2 - 3 kilometres off Avoca Beach.

If and when it is ready for scuttling, explosive charges will be placed in the hull and detonated on a day when the sea is calm. If all goes to plan, the ship will settle within 4 minutes upright on the seabed.

It is anticipated the sinking will be a gala event and thousands of spectators will be watching to witness the occassion. The sinkings of the Swan and Hobart have been extensively covered by the media.

After a two to three week period to check that all the charges have been detonated, the wreck will be open for business and it will continue to serve the nation for many years to come.

The current status of works on the Adelaide is -

  • 02 Deck (top of the superstructure - the bridge) . Virtually stripped out of wiring, ducting /piping
  • 01 deck - next one down.  As above, some asbestos removed  and diver access holes cut in the deckhead above the lift well. 
  • Main Deck.  Work underway to remove piping and wiring
  • Engine room - major tasks - cleaning pipes and oily waste.  Removing lead ballast
  • Main mast to be removed in one piece - destination unknown

 

 


HMAS Hobart ready for scuttling




Conducting the Seabed Survey




The preferred location - Avoca Beach

Approximate location of Artificial Reef.


HMAS Swan heads to the bottom