Catherine Hill Coal Loader - Sydney & New South Wales

G 6 Point, just off its namesake Glamping Number 6, offers a solid wall dive. We’ve found the dominant feature here is the drop-off itself, a substantial wall covered in hard coral, barrel sponges, and some impressive sea fans. Maximum depth is a comfortable 19m, making it a good option for those who prefer to keep things a bit shallower. Look for the overhangs and a small hole near the top of the reef. We often spot Speed Jacks darting past, and Midnight Snapper are usually hanging around. If you’re into the smaller stuff, keep an eye out for nudibranchs and various shrimp and crabs tucked into crevices. Visibility averages a clear 26m, so you’ll have plenty of light to explore the wall. It’s a decent site for a relaxed dive, especially if you appreciate good coral formations.

Location
Sydney & New South Wales, Australia, Australasia
Coordinates
-33.157700, 151.630400
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
5-12m

Marine Protected Area: Bird Island

Nearby Dive Sites in Sydney & New South Wales

Nearest Dive Centres to Catherine Hill Coal Loader

Marine Life in Sydney & New South Wales

Home to 202 recorded species including 129 reef fish, 41 sharks & rays, 9 whales & dolphins, 5 other, 4 crabs & lobsters, 3 octopus & squid.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth for diving at the Catherine Hill Coal Loader dive site?
The Catherine Hill Coal Loader is a shallow dive site, with the description indicating it goes to about 11 meters. Divers can expect a maximum depth of 10 meters. This makes it accessible for various experience levels, though it is rated as intermediate difficulty.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at the Catherine Hill Coal Loader?
Divers at the Catherine Hill Coal Loader can explore the impressive old coal loader, which is the dominating feature of the bay. Underwater, you'll discover a plethora of ship chains, cables, and hardware, including the historical remains of the SS Wallarah. Marine life includes schools of fish, nudibranchs, sea stars, and rays on the sandy bottom, with bull sharks also having been spotted in the area by surfers.
How challenging is the Catherine Hill Coal Loader as a dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Catherine Hill Coal Loader is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site. While it is a shallow dive, its intermediate rating suggests it may not be ideal for absolute beginner divers without supervision or additional experience. Divers should ensure they have the appropriate training and comfort level for such conditions.
What are the best times of year or tidal conditions to dive the Catherine Hill Coal Loader for optimal visibility and experience?
The provided data does not specify the best times of year or tidal conditions for diving the Catherine Hill Coal Loader for optimal visibility and experience. For general advice on planning your dives and understanding environmental factors, you might consult our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at the Catherine Hill Coal Loader?
The provided data does not specify the exact scuba diving certifications required to dive at the Catherine Hill Coal Loader. However, as it is classified as an intermediate dive site, divers should ensure they have the appropriate training and experience for such conditions. We recommend consulting with local dive centers in Sydney & New South Wales for specific certification requirements.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Catherine Hill Coal Loader dive site?
At the Catherine Hill Coal Loader, divers can expect an average visibility of 7 meters. The provided data does not include specific information regarding typical current conditions at this dive site. It's always wise to check local conditions before planning your dive.