- Concept design released for new boating facility on Thursday Island to support safer and more reliable access for residents in the Torres Strait.
- Design incorporates feedback from residents, Traditional Owners, boat owners and other key stakeholders.
- After 10 years of decline under Labor, the Crisafulli Government is getting on with delivering real outcomes for regional communities.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering a new boating facility on Thursday Island, which will prove to be a critical link in Queensland's "blue highway" connecting remote communities across the Torres Strait. The purpose-built recreational boating facility will replace the existing disused ramp and rock wall, providing safer and more reliable access for residents who rely on the waterways for school, medical appointments, cultural connections, and everyday transport. After 10 years of Labor neglect, which saw Far North Queensland communities left behind on infrastructure, services, and economic development, the Crisafulli Government is delivering real outcomes for the regions. The project, at Quarantine on Thursday Island, is funded through the $40 million Torres Strait Islands Maritime Infrastructure Program. The facility's design incorporates feedback from residents, Traditional Owners, boat owners and other key stakeholders, following an extensive community consultation process. A survey of Thursday Island and surrounding communities confirmed strong support for the project, with more than 90 per cent of respondents saying they plan to use the new facility. The current design includes: - two breakwater walls to protect the facility from strong currents and wave action
- a four-lane boat ramp to reduce wait times
- a floating walkway for ramp users to safely board and disembark
- a pontoon accommodating berths for various vessel sizes.
Landside facilities will be developed in partnership with Torres Shire Council and the local community. Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the project represented a major investment in the region's maritime infrastructure. "We are delivering vital infrastructure for the people who live and visit the Torres Strait Islands," Minister Mickelberg said. "The facility will help improve safety and access between communities in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area. "This is the difference between 10 months of delivering under the Crisafulli Government and 10 years of decline under Labor." Member for Cook David Kempton reaffirmed the importance of this commitment. "The Torres Strait Island community is not just a vital part of our electorate but of Queensland," Mr Kempton said. "Feedback from the local community has been instrumental in shaping the concept design and ensuring the facility reflects the needs and aspirations of the people of Thursday Island and surrounding islands. "I would like to thank the Torres Island community for their ongoing support and input and look forward to delivering a facility that enhances safety, supports economic development and meets the long-term needs of local boat users." Torres Shire Council Mayor Elsie Eriat said this was great news for the region. "The Quarantine boat ramp is a vital step toward safer, more reliable marine access for our community," Cr Teriat said. "Council will continue working closely with Maritime Safety Queensland to deliver a facility the whole community can be proud of." With the concept design now finalised, the Maritime Safety Queensland project team will continue to refine technical details and progress. The project team is also working with Kaurareg Traditional Owners to ensure Native Title and cultural heritage are considered throughout the life of the project. Preliminary works to commence next year with construction scheduled to begin in 2027. |
