All-tide access for Molongle Creek update

A $5 million dredging project that will deliver all-tide access at Molongle Creek boat ramp is progressing.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said land had been purchased near the creek to provide a suitable location for a dredge spoil disposal area.

“Securing that site was an important milestone for this project, as was the recently signed agreement between TMR, Whitsunday Regional Council (WRC) and the Molongle Creek Boat Club,” Mr Bailey said.

“This project is a key part of our election commitment to a $30 million, two-year extension of the Marine Infrastructure Fund for new and upgraded recreational boating facilities. 

“One in every 19 Queenslanders own a boat, and Queensland leads the nation in terms of boat registrations with nearly 260,000 registered vessels state-wide.

“As the popularity of recreational boating and fishing continues to increase, we have to ensure our infrastructure keeps up with this demand.

“I visited Molongle Creek last May to discuss the project with the Molongle Creek Boat Club so I’m glad an agreement has been reached.

“This agreement provides for future ownership of the boat launching facility to shift from the boat club to TMR, and for ownership of the car-trailer park and access road to shift from the boat club to council."

Mr Bailey said the facility provided the only means of access to the Cape Upstart community and would be the only all-tide access point to offshore waters in the Burdekin area, allowing the local volunteer marine rescue unit to operate round the clock.

Whitsunday Acting Mayor John Collins said his council had agreed to become the appointed manager for the boat launching facility.

“We are currently doing preliminary land surveys and working with the Molongle Creek Boat Club to amend lease boundaries,” Cr Collins said.

“Council has been maintaining the existing shallow entrance channel for some years and we are pleased the Queensland Government has stepped in to deepen and maintain the channel to all-tide status.”

Placement of the dredge spoil on land is the only feasible disposal option due to environmental restrictions on ocean disposal in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

TMR will work with the Whitsunday Regional Council to secure the necessary approvals for the building of a rehandling facility.

TMR will invite tenders for the detailed design of the dredge material disposal facility, with construction expected to be completed by early 2020.

Dredging works will follow and are scheduled for completion by late 2020.

ENDS

Media Contact: Toby Walker - 0439 347 875