NT Government will begin “urgent” Cullen Bay dredging in late May after large silt build-up

A larger silt build-up than expected has led to an emergency dredging project to keep vital ferry services operating smoothly.

The Cullen Bay dredging zone. Picture: NT Logistics and Infrastructure

The NT Government will begin “urgent” dredging in Cullen Bay later this month in a bid to stop cancellations and delays for ferries.

Due to seasonal weather and sedimentation, the basin and entrance channel in Cullen Bay have silted up more rapidly than had been anticipated, which is impacting on low tide access for ferries travelling to and from the Tiwi Islands and Mandorah.

Infrastructure and Logistics Minister Bill Yan said the dredging was needed for safe, reliable access and would safeguard the movement of more than 150,000 passengers each year.

“Ferry services from Cullen Bay are a vital link for so many Territorians,” Mr Yan said.

“We’re getting this project underway earlier than expected to keep people connected, protect access, and ensure services continue safely and reliably.”

The NTG owns and maintains the Cullen Bay ferry facility, which includes the access channel, basin, ferry terminal, gangway, pontoon, and parking infrastructure.

“The Department of Logistics and Infrastructure is doing everything we can to complete this work quickly and minimise disruption for passengers, operators and nearby residents,” Mr Yan said.

“The dredging will be conducted 24/7 to almost halve the project time frame and ensure Cullen Bay is ready well ahead of the new Mandorah marine facility opening expected in July.”

SeaLink currently operates about 150 ferry services annually to the Tiwi Islands, and about 4000 services to and from Mandorah.

Mr Yan said the government is planning ahead with longer-term environmental approvals underway that would allow quicker maintenance dredging in future.

Changes to ferry schedules as a result of the dredging will be communicated in advance by SeaLink.