Better marine services for Horn Island

Published Tuesday, 06 September, 2022 at 01:25 PM

Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Mark Bailey

Horn Island Marine Facility is set for an upgrade, as the Palaszczuk Government awards a multi-million grant to Ports North.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said $4 million dollars had been awarded for the upgrade.

“We know the Horn Island Marine Facility is in need of an upgrade, in order to provide the best services it can to the people of the region,” Mr Bailey said.

“Ports North has been awarded the funds, as the owner and operator of the facility, as part of the Palaszczuk Government’s successful Maritime Infrastructure Investment Program.

“Once complete, we expect to see better, safer services for ferry passengers travelling to and from Thursday Island.”

Attorney-General and Ministerial Champion for the Torres Strait Shannon Fentiman said the upgrade will be a game-changer for the community.

“This region relies on modern and efficient marine services,” Minister Fentiman said.

“The Horn Island Marine Facility upgrade will mean travel is safer for local workers, families and students.”

Mr Bailey said works were expected be complete by mid-2024, weather and construction conditions permitting.

Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said the upgrade would support local jobs, and trade, while boosting the local economy.

“This upgrade complements the work completed at the Cargo Facilities on Horn Island, which delivers the community with a wider barge ramp, a new berthing dolphin and fender system that can now accommodate much larger vessels.,” Ms Lui said.

“The Palaszczuk Government is supporting Torres Strait Islander communities to deliver better services, while supporting good jobs in the Far North.”

The grant funding is being provided from the Palaszczuk Government's $185.3 million maritime investment, through the Queensland Transport and Roads Infrastructure Program.

ENDS

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