The Mildura is the northernmost shipwreck on Ningaloo Reef and one of the most visible — its two large boilers poke above the water off the tip of North West Cape and can be seen from the lighthouse area. The 91 m, 1,394-ton steamer was carrying cattle from Cambridge Gulf (Wyndham) to Fremantle in 1907 when it struck the shallow reef at the top of the Cape. All crew survived, but most of the cattle did not.

The wreck lies in about 4 m and remains surprisingly coherent. The hull is relatively intact in outline, and the exposed boilers, engine mount, rudder and propeller shaft are all recognisable. Over more than a century the ironwork has become encrusted with coral and attracts reef fish, and the shallow depth means snorkellers see nearly as much as divers.

The problem is location. The tip of the Cape is swept by surge and tidal current, and swell regularly breaks across the wreck. The WA wreck diving community rates it as hazardous in most sea states because of the twisted iron. On the rare glassy, neap-tide day it is an atmospheric shallow dive or snorkel with a strong story; on any other day it is best enjoyed from shore.

The Mildura is protected as a historic shipwreck; look but do not disturb or remove anything. It suits experienced snorkellers and divers who can read conditions, and history enthusiasts combining it with a visit to Vlamingh Head Lighthouse.

The Mildura is also a reminder of how dangerous the top of the Cape was for coastal shipping: currents sweep around the point and the reef extends further than it appears. The wreck is a short drive from other Cape attractions and makes a good land-based stop even when conditions rule out getting wet.

From Exmouth drive north on Murat Road towards Vlamingh Head Lighthouse (about 17 km). The wreck's boilers are visible offshore from the coastal track and viewing areas near the top of the Cape; a 4WD track leads towards the beach. Access is a long swim across shallow reef flat, so most people view it from shore or visit by small boat launched from Bundegi.

GPS 21°47.007'S 114°10.083'E. Only attempt in glassy conditions with minimal swell on a neap tide.

The wreck sits on the exposed tip of the Cape where swell regularly breaks over the two boilers. It is only safe with swell under about 0.5 m, light winds and neap tides; spring tides produce strong currents around the point. The afternoon sea breeze and any northerly swell make it dangerous.

Cyclone season November–April.

Approach from the sheltered side in calm water, snorkel or dive around the two exposed boilers, then follow the hull outline to the engine mount, propeller shaft and rudder. Keep well clear of the twisted iron in any surge and abort if swell is breaking on the boilers.

Shallow; no penetration.

No regular operator. Occasionally visited by private boat; Exmouth operators pass it en route to Lighthouse Bay.