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.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Evans Patch is recorded as Reef in Bundaberg & Agnes Water. The listed access is boat. Confirm the actual meeting point, route and permission to visit; a map pin does not establish any of these.
Topics flagged by the stored research
These are questions prompted by the existing notes, not a verified or complete hazard assessment.
- Current and timing
- Ask how the operator assesses the current window for the actual route. Historical tide notes are not a departure instruction.
- Lines and obstructions
- Discuss any known entanglement concerns and the suitability of the planned area.
- Planned depth
- Confirm the intended route and training requirements; the recorded maximum is not a target.
Historical access notes exist for this record, but have not been independently verified for current use. Request current directions from the operator or site manager rather than following an old entry description.
Questions, answered
Is Evans Patch suitable for my certification?
The record lists Advanced Open Water. That does not establish suitability for every route or day. Share your training, recent experience and equipment needs with the operator and ask about the specific proposed dive.
Can I book Evans Patch through YouDive?
YouDive is an independent research directory. Contact an operator directly to confirm whether it currently runs the trip, the inclusions and the booking terms.
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
Before you make plans
Conditions, access and operator schedules can change. This is a location guide, not a dive plan. Ask a local operator about current conditions and suitability for your training and experience.
Sources & further reading
marinelife.org.augooddive.comRecord updated 26 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.