Evans Patch

Meet the site

Evans Patch is an offshore reef in the approaches to Bundaberg, marked on local lists as a site for experienced divers. Marinelife.org.au places it at 24°45.40'S 152°37.41'E, well out from Burnett Heads, and notes large schools of pelagic fish as its main attraction; GoodDive gives the depth as 21-23 m. That depth and its exposure to tidal current are why it is rated above the inshore reefs.

The reef itself is a patch of rock and coral rising from sand – a structure in otherwise open ground, which is why baitfish and the fish that hunt them gather over it. Expect trevally, mackerel, batfish and schools of smaller baitfish above the reef, with cod, sweetlips, snapper and angelfish closer to the rock. Turtles and rays are common in this part of the bay, and in winter manta rays move along the coast.

Published detail about the reef's layout is minimal and it is not a regularly guided site; most dives here are by local divers and clubs with their own boats. The site sits near the Beaufort bomber mark, and a boat heading out for one may combine it with the other. With depth in the low 20s, Advanced Open Water certification and nitrox are sensible, and someone should stay on the boat in case the current picks up.

For visitors, the more practical offshore options from Bundaberg are the Cochrane Artificial Reef, the Karma wreck and the ex-HMAS Tobruk, all of which are run by operators. Evans Patch is for divers with local knowledge, their own vessel and a flat-calm day who want a less-visited reef with a pelagic edge.

What you might see

Schooling pelagics (trevally, mackerel, baitfish), batfish, cod, sweetlips, snapper, angelfish, turtles, rays, manta rays (winter)

Location

Offshore reef patch north-east of Burnett Heads in about 21-23 m, known for large schools of pelagic fish.

Facilities nearby

Departure: Burnett Heads boat ramp