Beachgoers saw quite the sight last week when a “critical” offshore marker was replaced.
Onlookers at Caloundra witnessed boat crews removing and replacing the well-known North West 2, which is a key point for ships heading to and from the Port of Brisbane.
Multiple vessels, including a crane barge, were involved in the three-day operation from June 26 to June 28.
A Department of Transport and Main Roads spokesperson said the steel structure had aged and needed to be replaced.
“The North West 2 tower is a critical navigation aid for large ships using the North West Channel,” the spokesperson said.
“The existing tower marker was due to be upgraded. It has been removed and will be refurbished.
“A new tower has been installed in its place.”
Coast Guard Caloundra Commander Roger Pearce said the the marker was a vital piece of infrastructure.
“The old one was beyond its use-by date and was rocking and rolling, so they decided to replace it,” he said.
“It’s now been updated for the big ships, including the cruise liners and tankers.
“It’s a critical mark.
“Every vessel that goes to the Port of Brisbane comes past that mark. It’s basically the start of the port.
“And that marker is the closest point to the coastline that the vessels get to, as they turn to go down the North West Channel.
“There’s a fairway mark further north and further out to sea, which they come around and then they come across the face of the two North West markers and then they head south-east to stay in the channel.
“Everyone knows the North West 2, but it will be a lot more distinct now that it’s blue and yellow.”
Maritime Safety Queensland, which manages all navigation aids in state waters, issued a Notice to Mariners on June 16, informing boaties of the works on the “Special Mark”.
Crane barge Aquila, tug Mildred and multi-purpose boat Bhagwan Jackal were put to the task, along with dive support craft.
They were “conducting high-risk lifting and diving operations in the immediate vicinity of the beacon”.
The vessels were anchored in the area and Aquila displayed flashing yellow lights around her extremities during hours of darkness. The barges and support craft also maintained a watch and monitored VHF channels.
Mariners were urged to navigate with caution, when transiting the area.
