An old barge will soon become home to a variety of fish and other marine life after being scuttled in Moreton Bay on Wednesday.
The barge will add to a load of old car tyres and 200 shopping trolleys already at the Harry Atkinson Artificial Reef, a popular fishing spot 7km east-south-east of St Helena Island.
Harry Atkinson Artificial Reef is one of six the state government has built in Moreton Bay Marine Park, at a cost of $2.25 million, taken from a $50million Marine Infrastructure Fund.
National Parks Minister Steve Dickson joined locals to witness the scuttling of the 26metre, 60 tonne barge.
He said it would boost tourism and thanked the Port of Brisbane who donated the decommissioned boat.
Cleveland MP Mark Robinson said the reef would replenish fish stock and take pressure off existing natural reefs.
“Recreational fishing is a $1 billion industry, with 750,000 participants across our state alone, and I would love to see more of them spending their holidays here and investing in our local economy,” he said.
The barge was once used for general river maintenance and to build berths and port facilities between Cairns and the Gold Coast before being given a new life as a safe landing pontoon at the area now known as the Port of Brisbane.
Port of Brisbane Pty Ltd General Manager Marine, Peter Nella said the old barge had found a good home.
“After a few fish home modifications and structural changes, the barge has embarked on a new chapter in her life as part of the Harry Atkinson Reef,” Mr Nella said.
“This is a great example of recycling, and we’re pleased the State Government has provided such strong support for the initiative."