HMAS Brisbane is a decommissioned Royal Australian Navy destroyer that was scuttled in June 2005 to create an artificial reef off the Sunshine Coast, approximately 1.5 hours north of Brisbane. The wreck sits in Mooloolaba waters near Mudjimba Island and is one of Queensland’s most accessible scuba diving sites, open to divers year-round.
The Wreck and What to Expect Underwater
The ship was purpose-sunk in 28 metres of water at its deepest point, with the upper superstructure sitting at around 14 to 18 metres. The hull is largely intact, and the vessel was specially prepared before sinking to allow safe diver access through cut openings and removed hatches. Visibility averages 10 to 15 metres, though it can reach 20 metres or more on good days. The wreck hosts a healthy population of marine life including wobbegong sharks, cobia, lionfish, barracuda, and large schools of baitfish. Soft corals and encrusting growth now cover much of the hull.
The dive is rated suitable for Open Water certified divers, though some operators recommend Advanced Open Water for penetration sections. The site is dived as two separate moorings, one at the stern and one at the bow, allowing different sections to be explored across multiple dives.
Getting There from Brisbane
The most practical base for the dive is Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast, roughly 100 kilometres north of Brisbane via the Bruce Highway. Several dive operators run regular half-day and full-day trips to the wreck, typically departing from Mooloolaba Harbour. The boat ride to the site takes around 20 to 30 minutes from the marina. Most operators offer two dives per trip, with snacks or lunch included. Booking in advance is recommended, particularly during school holidays and weekends, as trips fill quickly.
Dive Operators Running Trips
Sunreef Mooloolaba is one of the primary operators offering dedicated HMAS Brisbane trips, running scheduled departures most days of the week. Scuba World Mooloolaba also runs regular wreck dives and offers equipment hire for those without their own gear. Both operators provide guided dive options and can accommodate certified divers with their own equipment. Prices generally sit between $130 and $180 per person for a two-dive trip, inclusive of tanks and weights. Full equipment rental adds roughly $40 to $60 on top of that.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a special certification to dive HMAS Brisbane?
Open Water certification is sufficient for the standard reef and exterior wreck dives, which stay above 18 metres. If you want to enter the interior sections of the ship, most operators ask that you hold at least an Advanced Open Water qualification or a wreck diving speciality. Check with your chosen operator before booking to confirm what their specific requirements are.
What is the best time of year to dive the wreck?
The wreck is diveable year-round, but visibility and conditions are generally best between November and May when water temperatures are warmer (around 24 to 27 degrees Celsius) and the sea is calmer. Winter months can bring cooler water around 20 degrees and occasionally reduced visibility after heavy rain events.
Can I dive HMAS Brisbane as a day trip from Brisbane?
Yes. The drive from central Brisbane to Mooloolaba takes around 90 minutes, and most full-day dive trips depart by 8am and return by early afternoon, making it a comfortable day trip without needing to stay overnight.
