SUCCESSFUL TENDERS ANNOUNCED FOR NEW ISLAND JETTIES!
Construction of four new Southern Moreton Bay Island ferry terminals would provide faster, safer and more enjoyable water transport for residents and visitors, Mayor Karen Williams says.
Speaking at the announcement of the $20 million first stage of the project on Russell Island, Cr Williams said it was a 'red letter day' for islanders.
“This is possibly the largest marine infrastructure project ever undertaken on Redlands Coast,” she said.
“Islanders have been waiting for years for this day and the start of the $37 million project to build new terminals on Russell, Macleay, Lamb and Karragarra islands is an important milestone.”
The contract for the first stage of construction has been awarded to The Jetty Specialist.
The stage includes sourcing materials and building important components such as pontoons, headstocks and deck slabs for the fixed jetties and pontoon piles.
There will also be a new floating walkway for the Macleay Island boat ramp and redesign and construction of existing gangways and pontoons for recreational use.
Thornlands company, Aluminium Marine, will be a sub-contractor fitting out much of the new ferry terminal pontoons
Stage two, the contract for which is expected to be awarded later this year, includes remaining onsite construction and landside works.
When complete – expected to be 2023 - the terminals will offer extra seating, drinking fountains, more waiting areas with improved weather protection, improved security, lighting and CCTV cameras.
Cr Williams said Redland City Council and the State Government had worked together to fund and plan the project.
Member for Redlands, Kim Richards, paid tribute to the ‘partnership’ for the jetties between the State Government and Redland City Council.
“This is a great example of the State Government and Local Government working together for good and strong outcomes for the community, a particularly the islands."
Council’s share of the $34 million project is $15 million; a great investment for the Southern Bay Islands.
Mayor Williams added: “The SMBIs are an important part of Redlands Coast – in many ways the hidden jewels of our city."
Division 5 Councillor Mark Edwards said islanders had played an important role in bringing the project to this exciting stage.
“As the project enters its final phase, I would like to thank the community for their invaluable input and support over the years to help deliver these long-awaited ferry terminals,” he said.
“The new terminals will make travelling to and from the islands more enjoyable, with the extra weather protection a massive plus.
“Islanders will also appreciate not having to line up out to the roadway in busy periods and people with walking disabilities will appreciate the extra space that allows people to pass each other.
“The dedicated fish platforms and tinnie landings are also welcome inclusions in the terminal design,” the councillor said.
CAPTION (L to R): Redlands MPKim Richards, The Jetty Specialist, Mayor Karen Williams, Jacob Morris of the The Jetty Specialist, and Cr Mark Edwards at the announcement.