Dredging completed: Ferry access restored at Cullen Bay

The urgent maintenance dredging off Cullen Bay has been completed ahead of schedule restoring ferry access for Territory communities.

Ferry services at Cullen Bay have been restored following the completion of the dredging program.

The urgent maintenance dredging off Cullen Bay has been completed ahead of schedule restoring ferry access for Territory communities.

The NT government fast-tracked the project by 12 months following accelerated silt build-up in the entrance channel and basin, which had disrupted ferry services during low tides, particularly for deeper draft vessels.

Logistics and Infrastructure Minister, Bill Yan, said the early completion was a direct result of the Government’s commitment to act early and the need to deliver certainty for users.

“Thanks to co-ordination between the dredging contractor, SeaLink and Cullen Bay Marina, the project was completed three weeks ahead of schedule with minimal disruption,” Minister Yan said.

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

“We thank ferry users, local residents and businesses in Cullen Bay, Wagait Beach and Belyuen for their patience as we worked to get services back on track so Territorians can get back to enjoying the unique Territory lifestyle.”

The NT Government worked closely with SMC Marine and Maritime Constructions to maintain access throughout the dredging, with only minimal early impacts to non-peak services.

“There is now all-tide access to the Cullen Bay ferry facility for existing SeaLink vessels,” Minister Yan said.

Pete Philipp, Director of SMC Marine, said they are proud to have worked with the Northern Territory Government and Cullen Bay stakeholders to deliver a project that benefits the community.

Originally published as Dredging completed: Ferry access restored at Cullen Bay