www.environment.nsw.gov.au · Official
Heritage report for location, depth, tidal flow, structure, and protection.
PS Ballina Wreck
Shallow, tide-sensitive paddle-steamer wreck off Port Macquarie.
Scuba DivingIntermediate5m - 6m
Wreck
Local operator required
The dive window is short and tide-dependent, so local guidance is advisable.
PS Ballina lies at the Hastings River entrance near Port Macquarie's breakwall. It is shallow but tide-sensitive, with a short slack-water window.
About PS Ballina Wreck
A historic paddle-steamer wreck at the Hastings River entrance in Port Macquarie, sitting inside an active channel near the breakwall. The site is compact and structure-rich, with surviving engine-room and paddle-wheel remains, cunjevoi cover, and a narrow slack-water window that makes planning and timing more important than depth.
Safety & Access
Site Conditions
Boat trafficRestricted accessStrong current
Safety Notes
Plan the dive around slack tide, keep the profile conservative, and treat the entrance channel as a working waterway.
Access Restrictions
Protected historic wreck with a narrow tide window; local access advice is recommended.
Legal Notes
Protected Historic Shipwreck; relics and associated material are protected.
Where Is PS Ballina Wreck?
Featured Operators
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Local Intel For PS Ballina Wreck
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba Diving
The shallow wreck is a compact wreck dive with visible structural remains and active marine growth.
Wildlife at PS Ballina Wreck
Species commonly reported at this site, with direct links into their wildlife guides.
Research Estimate At PS Ballina Wreck
Access · 2/5Challenging entry effort
Research estimate
Coral · 1/5Heavily damaged
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Aquatic Life · 4/5Great variety
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Facilities · 3/5Basic facilities
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Current · 4/5Strong current
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