Kookaburra Queen I Found Sinking in Brisbane
The Kookaburra Queen I, a beloved paddleboat in Brisbane, has been discovered partially submerged at its dock in Hemmant, raising concerns about its future. Former owner Jim Kelly expressed shock over the boat’s condition, especially after it was sold for over $550,000 just five months ago. The vessel, a significant part of Brisbane’s history, is now facing an uncertain fate.
History and Condition of the Kookaburra Queen I
Built in 1986, the Kookaburra Queen I was a prominent feature during Expo ’88 and served as a venue for weddings and parties for many years. The paddleboat boasts two dance floors, a commercial-grade kitchen, and seating for up to 320 guests. Despite its impressive features, the vessel has fallen into disrepair in recent years. It survived the devastating Queensland floods in 2011 but ceased operations after sustaining further damage during the 2022 flood.
Jim Kelly, who captained the boat, described its hull as “stiff and waterproof,” expressing disbelief that it could be sinking. He noted that caretakers had been living on the boat until recently, which adds to the mystery of how it ended up in its current state. “It’s a bit of a mystery—suddenly it’s taken off the berth and sitting on the bottom,” he told Nine News.
Maritime Safety Queensland has stated that the Kookaburra Queen I is unlikely to pose a threat to other vessels on the river. While it is not expected to sink further, the details surrounding its salvage and future remain unclear. The paddleboat’s sister vessel, the Kookaburra Queen II, is known for its classic paddlewheel design and was involved in a low-speed crash in 2019 that resulted in injuries.
Future Prospects and Community Reaction
The Kookaburra Queen I was listed for sale last September and sold to an undisclosed buyer for $550,000. The community is now left wondering about the fate of this iconic vessel. While it has a storied past, its future is uncertain as discussions about potential salvage operations are yet to take place.
Local residents and former patrons of the Kookaburra Queen I have expressed their sadness over the boat’s condition. Many fondly remember the celebrations and events held on board, making its current state all the more poignant. As the situation develops, the community hopes for a resolution that honors the boat’s legacy while ensuring its safety and preservation.
With the Kookaburra Queen I now resting at the bottom of its mooring, the next steps for this iconic paddleboat remain to be seen. The future of the vessel, once a vibrant part of Brisbane’s social scene, hangs in the balance.
