18 June 2010

Interviews and evidence have been collected by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority after a report of coral damage offshore Cairns.

It is alleged an illegal mooring caused damage to Ribbon Reef No. 8 in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority General Manager Andrew Skeat said the material gathered would help inform the next steps the agency undertakes.

"We have interviewed people connected to the alleged coral damage offshore Cairns," he said.

"A range of evidence has also been collected in relation to this matter.

"Divers from the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service will also undertake a site assessment early next week, weather permitting, to ascertain the nature and extent of any damage. 

"This material and the site assessment will be used in discussions regarding the type of legal action that may be considered."