Residents and visitors to Coochiemudlo Island over the Easter break will benefit from new and improved ferry terminal facilities following the completion of the new Coochiemudlo terminal and a revamp of the Victoria Point ferry terminal.
Minister for Main Roads, Roads Safety and Ports Mark Bailey said the Queensland Government had worked closely with the Redland City Council and the local community to deliver the jointly-funded $6.9 million facilities.
“The new Coochiemudlo Island facilities were shaped by the community for the community. We received feedback from more than 200 Coochiemudlo Island residents during the early design phase for the new terminal and many of their suggestions were incorporated into the final design,” Mr Bailey said.
“The completion of the new $4.2 million terminal couldn’t have come at a better time with the busy Easter break upon us. Visitors to the island will be able to enjoy these new facilities, including the new jetty and pontoon.”
Mr Bailey said the $2.7 million Victoria Point ferry terminal improvements included a new pontoon, hinged gangway, resurfacing of the existing deck and upgrades to the existing covered waiting area.
“This new and upgraded infrastructure is a shining example of what can be achieved when two tiers of government work together.
“These facilities will serve the local community well into the future,” Mr Bailey said.
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the Coochiemudlo Island works delivered a fixed jetty with a covered lookout area and gangway, along with a floating pontoon to rise with the tide.
“These safety improvements mean the new jetty provides easy access for passengers with mobility issues and parents with prams, in line with disability design standards and suitable for all weather conditions,” Cr Williams said.
“The old jetty with its fixed landing area, which set passengers down at stairs, was out-dated and made access difficult.
“After extensive local input, the final outcome has a real Coochie feel to it and will serve the community well.”
Resurfacing of the existing Victoria Point jetty deck will occur over the coming months, weather permitting, with no disruption to ferry services expected.
Waterway Constructions were engaged by Transport and Main Roads to complete works on both jetties.