South Australia sank a 40-metre dredger six kilometers off Adelaide; The ship now rests 20 meters underwater as a new reef in a $165 million algae bloom recovery plan.

South Australia sank the 40-metre long MV Andrew Wilson about six kilometers off the coast of Brighton, turning the retired ship into an artificial reef. The ship now stands 20 meters below the surface, on the sandy bottom of the ocean.According to the South Australian government, the sinking is part of the $165 million response to the algae bloom that affected marine life in the area. The artificial reef is intended to support the recovery of fish and other marine life after the impact of algae blooms.The MV Andrew Wilson made her final voyage this week after traveling about 40 kilometers from Port Adelaide to Brighton. It was anchored overnight before specialized teams began the operation to sink it. Valves were opened to allow seawater to enter the hull, causing the ship to gradually sink and settle on the sea floor.The operation also marks the first time in more than 20 years that a ship has been sunk in South Australian waters. Before the wreck can be opened for recreational diving, teams will carry out a final safety inspection in the coming days.

Ship that will become an artificial reef

Once the site opens, divers will be able to explore parts of the ship, including the engine room, galley and bridge. The location was selected because it is accessible, has suitable seabed conditions, and is close to boat ramps. It is also located a safe distance from major shipping channels.It is hoped that the wreck will become one part of wider efforts to help restore marine biodiversity in the area. The state government said the project is in addition to other recovery work, including building native oyster reefs and restoring seagrass habitat.An artificial reef provides structure in an area where there would otherwise be little solid habitat. The submerged ship will add a large surface area underwater where marine life can settle. Fish and other organisms can use such structures as part of the marine environment.However, the ship could not simply be placed in the water in its original state. Preparing the vessel for sinking was a detailed process that began several months ago after Maritime Constructions donated it to the state government.Specialized crews removed hazardous materials from the ship before it sank. They also removed the internal walls and cut strategic access holes in the hull. A deep clean was carried out in consultation with the Environmental Protection Authority and an independent specialist.The government said preparation followed strict international guidelines to avoid negative impacts on the local marine environment. This ensured that the ship was specifically prepared for its new underwater role.

Fishing prohibited around the wreck

The government has also introduced a temporary fishing restriction around the new reef. Recreational and commercial fishing is prohibited within 200 meters of the boat for 12 months.The restriction is intended to give local fish populations time to thrive around the new artificial reef. Species mentioned by the government include snapper, flathead fish and King George whiting.The South Australian Department of Primary Industries and Regions includes the MV Andrew Wilson site among areas where all fishing activity is prohibited during closed periods. Fishing closures can be permanent, seasonal or temporary and are used to reduce fishing pressure and help replenish fish numbers.For the new reef, the 12-month closure is temporary. Creates a protected area around the wreck while the site begins to develop as part of the surrounding marine environment.The MV Andrew Wilson was built in 1962 and has a long history in South Australian waters. During its service life, the vessel carried out local dredging operations and supported previous artificial reef installations. He also played a role in the rescue mission following the Whyalla Airlines tragedy in May 2000.