Iconic vessel sinks into retirement to boost algal bloom recovery

Monday 7 September 2026

The 40-metre grab hopper dredger will make history today as the first vessel to be scuttled in South Australian waters in more than two decades.

The historic event is being delivered through the Australian and South Australian governments’ $165 million algal bloom response, helping restore marine biodiversity in the area.

The sinking of the iconic vessel follows a 40-kilometre journey from Port Adelaide to Brighton, where she was anchored overnight prior to the scuttling.

Valves will be opened this morning to allow water to flood the hull. The vessel will gradually sink and settle upright 20 metres below on the sandy ocean floor.

In the coming days, teams will conduct a final safety inspection of the wreck before it officially opens to the public for recreational diving.

Resting in shallower waters, the site is suitable for anyone with an entry-level scuba diving qualification.

This location was specifically chosen for its accessibility, ideal seabed conditions, close proximity to boat ramps, and safe distance from major shipping channels.

Once open to public diving, the shipwreck will offer an exciting underwater experience, with explorers able to swim through multiple compartments, including the engine room, galley and bridge. 

The shipwreck is also another important step towards restoring fish and other marine life, which suffered a significant blow from the algal bloom.

It builds on other environmental recovery efforts, including building native oyster reefs and restoring seagrass habitat.

The complex mission to scuttle the ship began several months ago when she was donated to the State Government by Maritime Constructions.

Before the vessel could be sunk, specialist crews meticulously stripped the ship of all hazardous materials, removed internal walls, and cut strategic access holes into the hull.

A deep clean was carried out in close consultation with the Environment Protection Authority and an independent specialist. Strict international guidelines were also met to ensure there were no negative impacts on the local marine environment.

To give the artificial reef the best possible start, a 12-month ban on all recreational and commercial fishing within a 200-metre radius of the ship is now in effect.

This temporary restriction will allow local fish stocks, such as snapper, flathead, and King George whiting to thrive in the area.

Built in 1962, the MV Andrew Wilson has had a long history in South Australian waters. The vessel has undertaken local dredging works, supported previous artificial reef installations, and played a pivotal role in the salvage mission following the fatal Whyalla Airlines tragedy in May 2000, where eight people were killed when Whyalla Airlines Flight 904 crashed into Spencer Gulf.

Now her legacy will continue beneath the surface, serving the state’s marine environment for generations to come.