Sunshine Coast (Mooloolaba)

Core Safety Notes

• Forecast first: use BoM and wave monitoring to assess swell, wind, and storm risk before committing to offshore dives.
• Boat traffic: many sites are boat-access. Carry an SMB and use a controlled ascent plan.
• Wreck risks: Ex-HMAS Brisbane is a wreck environment. Penetration adds entanglement, silt-out, and overhead risk. Only attempt it with proper wreck training, redundancy, and a conservative gas plan.
• Experience guidance: the wreck is not suitable for inexperienced divers without a guide. A minimum number of logged open-water dives is commonly recommended before attempting the site.

Snorkel and Freedive Safety

• Headlands are only safe in low swell. Avoid surge, breaking waves, and poor exit points.
• Marine stingers may be present at any time but are more frequent in warmer months. Follow local warnings and first-aid guidance.

If a Diving Accident Is Suspected

• Call Triple Zero (000) for life-threatening emergencies.
• Contact Divers Emergency Service (DES) / DAN for diving medical advice and evacuation coordination.

Hyperbaric Care (regional Context)

There are hyperbaric medicine services in Brisbane. In a suspected decompression illness case, do not self-diagnose. Call DES immediately and follow their instructions for oxygen, hydration, and transport.

Site Protection Rules

• Ex-HMAS Brisbane is a conservation park and restricted access area. Permits control numbers and help protect divers and the wreck.
• Follow permit conditions, use moorings, and never remove or disturb anything on the wreck.

Reef Etiquette

• Do not touch, take, or feed marine life. Maintain neutral buoyancy and keep fins clear of coral.
• Mudjimba Reef has reef protection measures aimed at reducing anchor damage. Use designated areas and do not anchor on reef.

Wildlife Respect

• Grey nurse sharks are protected and sensitive to harassment. If you dive Wolf Rock or other shark sites, maintain calm positioning and follow operator briefings.