qm > Historic Shipwrecks Trail

Octopus

Details

Diving the Octopus.

Year Built: 1882
Built: Brisbane
Description of Ship: Bucket dredge
Location of Shipwreck: Arthur Bay, Magnetic Island.

History

The Octopus was a bucket dredge built in Brisbane for the Queensland Marine Department in 1882 by Messrs. Smellie and Co. She was capable of dredging 300 tons per hour in 25 feet of water. In December 1896 ownership of the Octopus was transferred to the Townsville Harbour Board.

The Octopus remained in service in Townsville until 1922 when the Harbour Board had everything of value removed and the hull was sold for scrap.

The hull was bought by a Mr. Murphy of Magnetic Island and towed to the mouth of Gustav Creek where it remained until 1928.

In 1928 it was decided that the hulk of the Octopus was an eyesore. Hayles Magnetic Island Ltd. used their launch Malanda to tow the Octopus to the eastern side of Magnetic Island and scuttle her in Arthur Bay.

Dive the Octopus

The following information is based on personal experience. Always check with authorities about local conditions before diving.

Diving Accessibility Rating: Easy
Getting There: The Octopus lies amongst large boulders on the northern side of Arthur bay. The site gradually slopes from a rocky substrate to a sand substrate. The depths range from one meter at the top of the slope to approximately six meters at its deepest point. It is also an interesting site for snorkelling.
WGS84 Location: 19° 07.684' S ; 146° 52.858' E
Permits: No permit required