General News
28 May, 2026
It’s a ferry good start
A SMOKING ceremony has been held to launch the start of major roadworks required to support the new four-lane Daintree ferry.
The first stage of the project is set to be completed by November 2026, weather permitting.
Contractors will then return in July 2027 to commence marine civil works in readiness for the arrival of the new ferry in December 2027.
The federal and state governments provided Douglas Shire Council $8.5 million through the Crucial Access Links program which is jointly funded through the Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
The council also received up to $3.42m through the Queensland Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme (TIDS) to support the upgrades.
Federal Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain said the upgrades would “help communities recover faster during the event of an emergency, strengthening their ability to rebuild and return to normal life soon after disasters strike”.
“The Daintree ferry roadworks are a part of a long-term investment and it’s great to see such a positive response from the community as we work towards creating better traffic outcomes,” she said.
Federal Member for Leichhardt Matt Smith said the Daintree had endured a particularly tough couple of years since Cyclone Jasper. “When this upgrade to local infrastructure is completed, the ferry’s increased capacity will bring more visitors, trade and tourism to the north side of the river,” Mr Smith said.
Council CEO Scott Osman said the new fourlane ferry and upgraded landside infrastructure would improve traffic flow, reduce waiting times and deliver a safer, more efficient experience for residents, local businesses and visitors.
To support the larger ferry, council is upgrading approach roads and ramps on both sides of the Daintree River.
