The SS Oakland was a 154-foot collier that sank off Port Stephens in 1903, and more than a century later her wreck at 27 metres has become a reliable, moderately deep dive valued as much for the marine life it now supports as for any dramatic intact structure. Large schools of baitfish are a defining feature of a dive here, using the wreck's remains as shelter and attracting bream and leatherjacket that in turn shelter among the structure themselves, creating a genuinely busy, fish-rich scene that rewards divers who spend time simply watching the water column around the wreck rather than focusing purely on the steel itself. As with many century-old colliers, the Oakland's structure has degraded significantly since her loss, and divers should not expect the kind of clearly defined bow-to-stern layout seen on more recent or more robustly built wrecks — the emphasis here is on the wreck as an artificial reef supporting abundant fish life rather than as a historical structure to explore in detail.

The depth of 27 metres puts it within reach of advanced open-water divers with reasonable experience, though it exceeds what is appropriate for newly certified divers, and the site is generally only offered as part of a dedicated wreck-diving charter rather than a standard daily trip. Divers with a specific interest in Port Stephens' wreck history, or simply wanting a change from the area's reef and island sites, will find the Oakland a worthwhile, if unglamorous, addition to a longer Nelson Bay diving stay.

Reached by dedicated wreck-diving charter from Nelson Bay; the exact run time depends on the wreck's position offshore but is broadly comparable to or slightly longer than the trip to the Port Stephens islands group. Not a walk-up dive — book through Feet First Dive or Let's Go Adventures for a wreck-specific trip.

The Port Stephens islands sit on the open coast just outside the harbour and are exposed to ocean swell, though generally less so than Broughton Island given their closer, more sheltered position relative to Tomaree Head and the harbour entrance. Operators choose the specific island and side to dive based on the day's wind and swell direction. Visibility is typically 8-20 m and best in settled autumn/winter weather; it drops after rain and in a strong onshore blow.

Descend the shot line onto the wreck at around 27 m and circumnavigate the collapsed hull, noting the large baitfish schools sheltering around the structure and checking for bream and leatherjacket using the wreckage for cover, before ascending for a staged safety stop given the depth.

Recreational-limit depth; nitrox recommended to extend bottom time comfortably.

Occasional dedicated wreck charters via Feet First Dive or Let's Go Adventures (Nelson Bay); not part of the standard daily schedule.