The Australian Border Force (ABF) has seized more than 50kg of cocaine hidden inside two separate consignments seized on the East Coast.
During a targeted inspection in Brisbane on Monday 6 April 2026, ABF officers from the Maritime Operations branch located 19 plastic-wrapped blocks concealed within a green tractor destined for Port Kembla, NSW.
Samples taken from the blocks underwent testing and returned presumptive positive results for cocaine.
In total, 22.25kg of cocaine was detected, with an estimated street value of about $7.1 million.
Following further inquiries, ABF officers from Maritime Operations NSW conducted additional inspections upon the vessel's arrival at Port Kembla, with a further duffle bag located within a separate yellow tractor and consignment destined for Melbourne.
Presumptive testing returned a positive reading for cocaine, with an estimated 30kg located inside the bag.
The drugs have been seized and an investigation has commenced into the circumstances surrounding the attempted importation.
ABF Maritime Operations Queensland Superintendent, Jim Ley, said ABF officers remain vigilant in detecting and disrupting attempts by organised crime groups to conceal illicit drugs within legitimate trade pathways.
"Criminal syndicates use a range of concealment methods, including heavy machinery, to avoid detection at the border. ABF officers are alert to these tactics and will continue to detect and disrupt them at the border," Supt Ley said.
"This detection demonstrates the professionalism and expertise of our ABF Maritime Operations officers. Every day they conduct thorough inspections to disrupt serious and organised crime before harmful drugs can reach the Australian community."
Anyone with information about this attempted importation or any serious organised crime is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, Anyone with information about suspicious activity which may impact the security of Australia's borders is urged to report to Border Watch online. By reporting suspicious activities, you help protect Australia's border and the community.
The ABF continue to work with domestic and international partners to identify emerging concealment methods and protect Australia's borders from criminal exploitation.?