The City of Adelaide was built in Glasgow in 1864. Originally as a 80-metre steam ship, later converted to a four-masted barque. Sailing with passengers until 1902 when it was converted to a coal storage.
The coal caught fire in 1912 and the formerly gracious ship sat in Townsville for three years before we was purchased by a local businessman with the intention of converting the hull into a breakwater or accommodation in Picnic Bay.
While on tow to Picnic Bay the City of Adelaide ran aground in Cockle Bay, here she has been sitting ever since. In the twenties the hull was used as a change-house by swimmers.
In 1942 four airmen died when their fighter crashed into the rear mast of the City of Adelaide while on training.
In 1971 cyclone Althea caused severe damage to what was left of the hull.
The wreck sits about 300 meters offshore, at low tide you can walk out here, at high tide the wreck is accessible by boat.
You will need to step aboard the the wreck to reach the cache. Be aware the wreck is old and may be fragile, so take care. Remember to BYOP.
This is Croc Country so be careful if you chose to wade out as the mangroves that line this part of Magnetic Island are a favorite habitat for Estaurine Crocodiles.
More information can be found at ABC