Image of Dave Harasti, UW photographer extraordinaire diving on rebreather in Brisbane, 2005

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The Wrecks of Sydney: SS Tuggerah

Located a little to the north east of the Undola in slightly deeper water, the SS Tuggerah was also a coastal steamer that carried coal to Sydney, primarily from the Illawarra coalfields. Sunk on 17 May, 1919 (less than 6 months after the Undola), the Tuggerah went down with 6 crew, including the master.

Survivors reported that Tuggerah was in fact making good ground in reaching Sydney, but was hit by a large sea (estimated at 6m) when off the Royal National Park, and turned turtle and sank in 48m (why are so many of Sydney’s wrecks in 48m?). 11 of the crew survived.

Lying on its port side, the bow end of the wreck is pretty much reduced to nothing but some twisted metal, and the collapsed ribs that once held together the cargo hold. The ships mast is lying off to the left hand side of the wreck, and is quite distinctive. The bow is generally absolutely covered in nannygai and other small fish. All the dives I’ve had on the Tuggerah have been in good visibility (15-20m), and each time you could only see 1-2m in around due to the fish.

The stern end has perhaps less fish life, but is more intact, and you will find that you spend more time around here. Follow the side of the wreck up from the bow (on the right side if facing the bow) and you will find that the stern end looms up front of you as the fish part, reaching up to 39m.

This end features the double boilers, one now on top of the other. Around here and off to the sides you’ll also find parts of the old engine room, the ships funnel and other bits and pieces. Behind the boilers you’ll quickly find the prop and the remains of the rudder.

A great dive for the right diver in the right conditions, you have to be ready to deal with currents or even can the dive due to them. Be comfortable with depth before diving this one, it is an advanced deep dive.

For diving the southern Sydney wrecks, I recommend Sea Tamer II Dive Charters .