Police detonate unexploded marine marker device on Queensland’s Peregian Beach

Queensland police enacted an emergency declaration under the Public Safety Preservation Act around 12:30 p.m. on August 22, 2025, following the discovery of a suspicious device on Peregian Beach. A large exclusion zone was established until the Australian Defence Force safely detonated the device, identified as a military flare, around 2:30 p.m. The danger zone was lifted shortly after 3:00 p.m.

Defence identifies device as military flare

Initial reports suggested the object might be a hazardous aluminium phosphide canister, known for generating toxic, flammable gas upon contact with moisture. Further assessment confirmed it was a marine marker flare, used in maritime operations. It was deemed unsafe to transport and was therefore neutralized onsite.

Also read: Bali shooting suspect extradited after gangland killing of two Australians in luxury villa

Community safety measures

Residents within the cordoned perimeter were advised to remain indoors. The operation concluded without incident or injury, and authorities safely reopened the area to public access.

Historical context of unexploded ordnance

Unexploded military ordnance remains an ongoing concern in the area. Throughout the development of nearby Kawana Waters, a former works inspector discovered approximately 100 items of unexploded ordnance, remnants of WWII live-fire training, necessitating military disposal protocols. Moreover, Peregian Beach and surrounding coastal areas were used during WWII for artillery practice, and local residents have occasionally uncovered shells and flares in their yards, underscoring the lingering risks in these historically used zones.