If you're looking for an underwater adventure that is the envy of wreck divers from around Australia, and indeed the world, then jump on board Victoria's latest diving sensation the ex-HMAS Canberra, a multi-level guided missile frigate that now rests on the sandy floor of Bass Strait outside Port Phillip Heads.
Scuttled in October 2009, this former floating fortress is the latest addition to Victoria's shipwrecks graveyard that boasts over 40 wrecks. Fast becoming the biggest diving attraction on the southern shores, this new artificial reef has something to offer divers of all levels and experience.
A proud history - An exciting future
The HMAS Canberra was built in Seattle, USA in 1978. After being purchased by The Royal Australian Navy, it was commissioned into service as FFG02, an Adelaide class Frigate. It has a rich service history, including the Middle East during The Gulf War and the evacuation of Australian nationals from Jakarta in 1998. In 2002, it joined Operation Slipper as part of an international coalition against terrorism and was involved in many operations throughout the Southeast Asian region.
In November 2005, the HMAS Canberra was decommissioned at Fleet Base West, near Perth, and in 2006 Victoria won the bidding process to sink the warship as a dive attraction. Towed across the Great Australian Bight to Victoria in June 2008, the ship was then prepared for its new role as a dive attraction, which opened in December 2009.
The perfect location for getting wrecked
As you descend down the line, the ex-HMAS Canberra emerges from its sandy grave. Measuring in at an impressive 135 metres, it is a real feast for the senses. The main superstructures, being the mast, bridge and flight deck that epitomise this class of frigate provide a seldom viewed snapshot of Australian naval history and can be found in less than 18 metres, making it accessible to Open Water divers.
The hangar at the rear of the ship, with its wide entrance is a perfect training ground for new wreck divers. While for the more adventurous, deeper exploration has been made possible across this multi-level playground with a series of entry points, including challenging drop down funnels that lead to the engine room.
What sets this wreck apart from others is that many of the internal structures and equipment inside the wreck have been left intact. It is underwater exploration at its finest and is quite possibly the quintessential wreck diver's utopia. Divers can expect to see many of the original internal features, including the workshop with vices and workbenches, the kitchen with cooking vats and pressure cookers and the iconic mural in the sailor's mess.
A bustling marine metropolis/A magnet for marine life
Underwater photographers and marine naturalists are quickly signing up for a tour of duty aboard this remarkable wreck to the site. The sheer size and numerous features of this new artificial reef make it a haven for marine life. Already masses of trevally and juvenile fish in the tens of thousands are schooling around the site, while hardy heads and leatherjackets have set up residence. Lolly coloured nudibranchs and cryptically camouflaged velvetfish combine with stunning red and green coloured algae to provide a stunning contrast to the surrounding blue waters.
Getting onboard
Multiple dives are needed to fully appreciate and explore this exciting new destination. Mornington Peninsula boasts a raft of experienced and reputable dive charters that can take you to onboard this FFG-78 class guided missile frigate.
For those with your own boat, you can book mooring buoys through the Parks Victoria Online Booking System at www.parkstay.vic.gov.au and for more on this spectacular wreck dive jump onto www.hmascanberra.com.au.
See for yourself why the ex-HMAS Canberra is a wreck diver's dream and a playground for marine naturalists and historians alike. Grab your fins and head down to the Mornington Peninsula for a unique and breathtaking underwater adventure that you will never forget.