Retired 40-metre dredger sunk off Adelaide to create new artificial reef

It was anchored overnight before specialist crews began the operation to sink it South Australia has sunk the 40-metre MV Andrew Wilson about six kilometres off the coast of Brighton, turning the retired vessel into an artificial reef. The ship now rests upright 20 metres below the surface on the sandy ocean floor.According to the govt of South Australia, the sinking is part of the $165 million response to the algal bloom that affected marine life in the area. The artificial reef is intended to support the recovery of fish and other marine life after the impact of the algal bloom.The MV Andrew Wilson made its final journey this week after travelling about 40 kilometres from Port Adelaide to Brighton. It was anchored overnight before specialist crews began the operation to sink it. Valves were opened to allow seawater into the hull, causing the vessel to gradually sink and settle on the seabed.The operation also marks the first time in more than 20 years that a vessel has been scuttled in South Australian waters. Before the wreck can be opened for recreational diving, teams will carry out a final safety inspection in the coming days.Ship to become artificial reefOnce the site is ope...