DIGNIFIED REST: Diamantina is being given a structural makeover.

Volume 49, No. 7, May 04, 2006

For the first time since 1981, “oldtimer” HMAS Diamantina 1 has been on the move.
Not too far, however.

On March 28 a fleet of small tugs guided the WWII River Class frigate out of the South Brisbane Dry Dock.

Her move was part of a $3 million refurbishment of the heritage listed dock.
For the next few months she will secure at a wharf on the Brisbane River while new keel blocks are positioned in the dock.

She will then be floated back and a concrete wall put in place replacing the rusted out steel caisson.

For years Diamantina 1 has been going up and down with the tide because of the failed leaking caisson.
With the concrete wall in place, the dock will be drained and cleaned.

This will be followed by an inspection of the ship’s hull, some cleaning and repairs.

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