Floating to the finish line

The Southern Moreton Bay Islands (SMBI) ferry terminals upgrade is one step closer to completion as Russell Island’s new pontoon arrives onsite.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the SMBI ferry terminal upgrade marked a milestone for growth in the Redlands.

“This $44.6 million project is delivering big for the local economy through better amenities and access to ferry services for locals,” Mr Bailey said.

“Thanks to the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to transport infrastructure, we are getting on with the job and building new ferry terminals where they are needed most.”

Member for Redlands Kim Richards said Russell, Macleay, Lamb and Karragarra islands would see new terminals built by mid-2023.

“I’m proud to see the new pontoon now onsite at Russell Island, marking great progress for the new facility which will service locals and tourists well into the future.

“Locals can see the magnitude of the new facility and the finish line for the completion of the new facility is well within reach.

“The float out of the pontoon involved detailed planning before departure, with logistics of the move considering the most suitable tide and weather conditions to safely navigate such a large structure out through Eprapah Creek and Moreton Bay to the island.

“Not only is this supporting jobs on our islands, but we’re creating quality employment opportunities in design, manufacturing, construction and installation as the project progresses.

“Now the pontoon has arrived at Russell Island, the next steps will include continued construction work on the jetty and pontoon, installing the gangway, and delivery of the landside works.

“Completion of the new Russell Island ferry terminal remains on track for later this year (2022).”

Ms Richards said the focal point of the $44.6 million investment was to improve accessibility of ferry terminals on the islands.

“This project will deliver raised land levels, new accessible waiting shelters and seating, new accessible amenities blocks for Russell and Macleay Islands and new walkways, alongside the new ferry terminals,” she said.

“The project will also include repurposing the existing ferry pontoons and jetties for recreational use, like fishing and mooring.

“I really appreciate the patience of locals during this time and can’t wait to see the terminals in full use once completed next year.”

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the arrival of the Russell Island pontoon was a major milestone in the long-awaited project.

“This is a red-letter day for our Southern Moreton Bay Islands and shows what can be achieved when different levels of government work together.

“Following completion of the Russell Island ferry terminal, Council will upgrade the adjacent car park, upgrading footpaths, installing new lighting and building a bus and drop-off zone, more accessible parking bays and an additional 64 parking spaces.

“On-site works at the Macleay Island ferry terminal are in full swing, and fabrication works are continuing on the Lamb Island pontoon, with onsite works at Lamb Island planned to commence in late-2022.

“Work on the Karragarra Island ferry terminal pontoon will start once the Lamb Island pontoon is transported to Aluminium Marine in Thornlands for the fitout work.

“Council is pleased to partner with the State Government to deliver this project to help ensure the SMBI community and visitors receive the facilities they need.”

Division 5 Councillor Mark Edwards said the project’s progress was exciting, and he was looking forward to delivering the long-awaited ferry terminals.

“The SMBI Ferry Terminals Upgrade project is one of the largest investments in island infrastructure and will help residents travel to and from the islands easier and safer,” Cr Edwards said.

“I’d like to thank the community’s invaluable input and support that has helped us bring the project to where it is today.

“The new ferry terminals will provide safe and accessible marine infrastructure for island residents, visitors, and business owners.

“The project also includes repurposing the existing pontoons and jetties for recreational use, such as fishing and mooring.”

Overall works on the four new terminals are planned for completion in mid-2023, with Russell Island scheduled for completion late-2022 (weather permitting).

When complete, ferry customers will benefit from increased seating, drinking fountains, more waiting areas with better weather protection, and improved security and lighting.

The SMBI Ferry Terminals Upgrade project is a jointly funded $44.6 million project, with the Queensland Government contributing $29.2 million and Redland City Council contributing $15.4 million.

For more information on the project, visit the project page at yoursay.redland.qld.gov.au/upgrade-of-smbi-ferry-terminals or email the project team at [email protected]