Yarrabah jetty project construction commences, no ferry locked in

Construction on an $11.5 million infrastructure project aimed at improving connectivity for a Far Northern community has commenced, but a critical component is still in its infancy.

AT LEAST half of Yarrabah residents who commute via road to Cairns for work and education each day will be keenly watching the construction of the town’s new jetty.

Mulgrave MP Curtis Pitt with Mayor Ross Andrews and Gunggandji Prescribed Body Corporate Aboriginal Corporation chairwoman Kristen Pearson have announced the start of construction of a $11.5 million jetty project at Gribble Point, Yarrabah.

It followed $516,000 worth of land-based works at the site already completed.

The 165m-long jetty is expected to be completed late this year to be followed by much-anticipated ferry services to the remote community that is only 12km by sea to Cairns.

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Mayor Andrews said he hoped the completion would open a world of opportunities.

“We’re hoping to leverage off the Far North tourism market and have people come in by sea to showcase the art, culture and music,” he said.

“TMR (Department of Transport and Main Roads) will have to go through EOIs (expressions of interest) for certified ferry operators but we’ve put the feelers out there and we know there’s some Cairns-based ones interested.”

Mr Pitt said TMR had amended the initial design to include a floating pontoon.

“This provides an opportunity for locals to use the jetty to access dinghies moored to the rear of the pontoon,” he said.

“When complete, the new jetty will be a great asset for the community and present new transport, tourism and economic opportunities.”

“The jetty will be built by Brady Marine and Civil with construction expected to be complete late 2021, weather permitting.”

Ms Pearson also welcomed the commencement of works.

“Once complete, the jetty will complement significant community events like the Yarrabah Music and Cultural Festival, and enhance the community’s tourism offerings.”

The completed jetty is expected to create 10 new jobs.

Originally published as Yarrabah jetty project construction commences, no ferry locked in