Billionaire Clive Palmer’s superyacht, the Superyacht Australia, has secured a prime viewing position for Brisbane’s upcoming Riverfire event. The vessel, valued at $40 million and measuring 56 metres, was permitted to dock in a location previously designated for recreational boats due to its size, as confirmed by Maritime Safety Queensland.
The superyacht, which flies under the Maltese flag, was attached to a buoy situated between the Story Bridge and Kangaroo Point Bridge early on Monday morning, ahead of the highly anticipated fireworks display scheduled for the weekend. This position is considered one of the best spots in Brisbane for viewing the fireworks and aerial performances.
Changes to Anchorage Regulations Spark Controversy
Maps reviewed by local media indicate that the area where Palmer’s yacht is docked was previously set aside for recreational boat owners. Following recent changes, this location has been reclassified for commercial vessels. As a result, recreational boats have been moved to the opposite side of the Kangaroo Point Bridge.
The decision to allow Palmer’s superyacht into this prime location has drawn criticism from recreational boat owners, who suspect improper dealings to benefit the billionaire. In response, Maritime Safety Queensland clarified that Palmer’s vessel is not registered as a commercial boat. The only reason it was allowed into this area is due to its size, which exceeds the 18 metres limit for recreational boats during the Riverfire event.
A spokesperson for Maritime Safety Queensland explained, “The vessel registered as Superyacht Australia is too large to access the recreational anchorage.” They emphasized that the yacht was accommodated in the only area that could be safely used without disrupting commercial vessels.
Official Justification and Community Reaction
The spokesperson also confirmed that Palmer is not paying for the docking rights in this exclusive location. The changes to the anchorage regulations were made following consultations with several organizations, including the Queensland Police Service, Brisbane Festival, and River City Ferries.
The reclassification of the area was necessitated by the construction of the Kangaroo Point Bridge, which altered the previous anchorage area for commercial vessels located adjacent to the Queensland Naval Stores. “The location and height of the bridge meant that the previous anchorage area for commercial vessels was no longer practicable,” the spokesperson stated.
As Riverfire approaches, the community remains divided over the allocation of prime viewing locations. While some celebrate the opportunity for an extravagant display, others question the fairness of allowing a billionaire’s superyacht to occupy such a coveted space.
With the Riverfire event drawing closer, the spotlight remains on Clive Palmer’s superyacht, the Superyacht Australia, and the ongoing debate over public access to prime viewing spots in Brisbane.
