A beloved Brisbane icon, the Kookaburra Queen paddleboat, is facing an uncertain future after a recent sinking incident. This beloved vessel, known for its role in marking special occasions like weddings and birthdays, has now become a cause for concern.
The Kookaburra Queen, one of two nearly identical paddleboats built over four decades ago for World Expo '88, has become a beloved fixture on the Brisbane River. With their timber hulls, iconic paddlewheels, and sweeping decks, these boats closely resembled classic Mississippi River steamers, making them instantly recognizable and loved by locals.
But here's where it gets controversial... One of these historic vessels has been spotted sinking in the shallows, and it's a mystery as to why. Former owner Jim Kelly, who has been working on the boat alongside the new owner, described the scene as heartbreaking. He believes it will be an expensive endeavor to salvage the boat and bring it back to its former glory.
Footage shows water encroaching onto the deck, with a small crew working tirelessly to pump it out. The boat's sudden intake of water is a puzzle, as it was in good condition just a month ago.
The Kookaburra Queen was sold at auction for a symbolic starting bid of $9, eventually closing at around $500,000. Built in Bulimba, these paddleboats have been an integral part of Brisbane's River City for generations, hosting countless events and creating lasting memories.
Alex Rolfe, whose father was a part-owner in the early 2000s, started working on the vessel at just 10 years old. He shares, "A good 10 years of my life on those boats, a lot of memories... It's a piece of history that we all so desperately love." He suggests, "Even if they can just sit it on the river as a floating restaurant, it would mean the world. Everyone remembers the sound of the paddles and the horn."
So, what's next for the Kookaburra Queen? Will it be salvaged and restored to its former glory, or will it become a lost piece of Brisbane's history? What do you think should be done to preserve this iconic vessel? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
