The Valiant

In the early 80's, the former Tug Valiant was accidentally scuttled off Barrenjoey Headland whilst under tow from Pittwater on its way to disposal at sea. It now forms an interesting little dive wreck and at 27m more accessible to a wider range of divers than the deep wrecks in the same general area, such as the SS Birchgrove Park (51m), the SS Tuncurry (60m) and TSS Hall Caine (45m). There are commercial operators in the area that run to this site. Alternatively, the GPS Mark for the site is S33º34.705' E151º20.735' (WGS84 hdddºmm.mmm').

Situated at the entrance to Broken Bay, this site is right at the mouth of the Hawkesbury river. As such, visibility can be greatly effected by tidal flow and river run off. Whilst not compulsory by any means, if you dive this site as the tide runs in close to the high tide you can expect the best conditions. I have dived this site in 1m Vis through to one day when 5m down the line we could see the whole boat in crystal clear water. If you dive as recommended and avoid diving after periods of heavy rain you should get reasonable Vis.

The dive itself is very straight forward. The Tug is only 23m long and 5m wide so you will never be far from your anchor. It sits upright (with a small list) in the sand. It is covered in growth, including ascidians, sponges and soft corals. Yellow tail scad school above the wreck and many Mado as well as Half Banded Sea Perch call it home. You will find the inside packed with Black tipped bullseyes and the odd Wobbegong hanging around. Look closely in any the of the pipes and other nooks and crannies as you will spot plenty of Green Morays.

The Valiant is a nice little wreck dive to do every now and again.