The Wyola wreck in North Coogee.
Will Russell
www.communitypix.com.au   d458140
Camera IconThe Wyola wreck in North Coogee. Will Russell www.communitypix.com.au d458140 Credit: Supplied/Will Russell

Future of Wyola wreck unclear after reports of injuries on deteriorating vessel

Bryce LuffFremantle Gazette

City of Cockburn engineering and works director Charles Sullivan said the wreck’s sharp fragments had reportedly injured horses, people and dogs.

“These injuries appear to have resulted from a combination of increased exposure of the wreck and barge and its deteriorating condition,” he said.

The Wyola has rested at CY O’Connor Reserve since being scrapped in 1970.

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The City of Cockburn is investigating the public safety of the wreck, with community feedback being sought.

Mr Sullivan said the community’s view, heritage constraints and costs would be considered among other matters before a decision is made.

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“The City acknowledges the shipwreck’s value to some sections of the community and is thus seeking community feedback… to identify community feeling about whether it can it safely remain in its current location or whether it should be shifted elsewhere,” he said.

State Heritage Office executive director Graeme Gammie said there would be a procedure to follow because the Wyola was within the heritage-listed South Beach horse exercise area.

“As the wreck falls within the area of the State Registered place, a referral for the removal of the wreck would need to be made to the Heritage Council for its advice,” he said.

“The Heritage Council’s advice will be based on the impacts on the identified State heritage values of the site.

Local publisher Carmelo Amalfi, who is helping organise a commemorative horse race at the beach in October, said he was open to moving the race north or south of the wreck if it remains.

Public comment is open until February 17.

To comment, visit comment.cockburn.wa.gov.au.