Royal HaskoningDHV secures Torres Strait marine infrastructure project as part of $80m revitalisation plan

A consulting and engineering company has secured the contract to restore and significantly upgrade dilapidated jetties to safeguard the Torres Strait community’s transport and fishing industry in partnership with the local council.

Existing run down jetty structure in Torres Strait. Photo: Supplied

Consulting engineering company, Royal HaskoningDHV, has secured a marine infrastructure revitalisation project with the Torres Strait Island Regional Council to restore and modernise multiple jetties across the archipelago as part of an $80m plan.

The company has been commissioned to design and rebuild three jetties across Saibai, Dauan and Boigu Islands.

Key modernisation features the company will be integrating into the new jetty

designs include greater stability, wider access ways to support larger barges, more durable materials such as low slip plastic slats, as well as stairs.

“After conducting an initial condition assessment, it was clear multiple jetties were either completely dilapidated or require significant restoration,” technical director and project lead Stuart Bettington said.

Existing structure on Boigu Island. Photo: Supplied

“As part of the project, the new designs will feature significant upgrades.

“We will be working closely with the council and local community to not only

rebuild this infrastructure but to upgrade accessibility as part of the jetty design.”

The Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula area received the most significant investment in marine infrastructure in the last 30 years, with the Australian and Queensland governments investing $80m in funding towards improved marine infrastructure including overhauling jetties, wharves and barge ramps.

“The current jetties only have ladder access for boats,” Mr Bettington said.

“Our designs include stair access at the end which may seem small but is a massive improvement in functionality.

“Currently, fishermen are required to carry their catch and equipment up and down a ladder, which you can imagine is no easy task.

Design render. Image: Supplied

The existing jetties were built with a lifespan of 25 years, but have been in operation for more than three decades.

During this time, many have become severely degraded and unsafe due to collisions from vessels, weather, and degradation of materials.

Mr Bettington said there was scope to expand the project.

“While upgrading the existing jetties is a crucial first step, our initial assessment revealed a broader need for infrastructure improvements,” he said.

“We believe that by optimising the design and budgeting process, we can identify more cost-effective solutions, allowing the opportunity to expand the scope of the project and make a more significant positive impact on the community.”

The project is scheduled to commence in the upcoming dry season in May 2025.

Originally published as Royal HaskoningDHV secures Torres Strait marine infrastructure project as part of $80m revitalisation plan