The loss of the 429-ton collier Undola is still shrouded in mystery. The recently overhauled, seaworthy vessel was lost off Garie Beach, Royal National Park south of Sydney on 20 December 1918, while on a voyage to Sydney with a cargo of coal. None of the eleven crew survived.
Two theories have been suggested for the loss. The first is that the Undola was swamped by a rising sea. The ship's hatches were evidently not covered at the time of departure from Bellambi. The second theory is that the ship struck a drifting mine from the German raider Wolf. No conclusion on either theory has yet been established.
The remains of the Undola lie in about 45 metres of water with the bow facing north. The ship's compound steam engine, boiler and rudder post and quadrant are among the main features on the site.
