Community
30 October, 2023
Popular jetty boat options
A STUDY to evaluate Palm Cove jetty’s suitability for both recreational and commercial vessels is likely to get ministerial approval.
Barron River MP Craig Crawford held a meeting involving Advance Palm Cove president David Goodiness, Cr Brett Olds, Cairns Regional Council officers, Transport and Main Roads Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) infrastructure teams and fishing representative Dan Hammersley to discuss ways to make the jetty safer for boaties.
Mr Crawford said he had also written a letter to Transport Minister Mark Bailey seeking his support for the study.
“Palm Cove jetty is a considerable tourist attraction for promenading and a popular fishing place for locals and could help the local economy further if upgraded to make vessel berthing and passenger transfer safer,” he said in the letter.
“It is also important to note that Double Island resort/lease (approximately 2km off Palm Cove) is about to be reinstated and developed.
“Therefore, I am writing to seek your support for a MSQ feasibility/options study for Palm Cove jetty – including MSQ undertaking feasibility pre-lodgement meetings with approvals agencies.”
Mr Crawford said, with the island expected to return to government hands and then on-sold to another operator, a water taxi or shuttle service from the jetty would be vital as well for use by smaller craft, including fishing charter and recreational vessels.
He said some sort of breakwater or structure to protect boats from the waves might be needed at the jetty’s lower landing.
Mr Crawford said unfortunately it would be unlikely the jetty could be used by large reef catamarans.
He said it was probable that an ocean floor study would have to be done to understand the movement and effects of waves.
“The study will see what may or may not be possible,” Mr Crawford said.
The study would outline the options, timeframe and cost, he said.
Mr Goodiness said it was a good meeting and the first step towards making the jetty safer for boaties.
He said it was vital that any work did not cause any environmental damage.
Mr Goodiness said it would enhance the jetty as a drawcard and for users.
He said fears the changes would impact fishing off the jetty were unfounded.
“People will still be able to fish … fishing should not be affected,” Mr Goodiness said.
“People use it for fishing, for walking and this will take none of that away,” he said.
Cr Olds said it also had to be made safer for SES rescue boats, one of which was badly damaged recently. “We also don’t want to ruin the fishing,” he said. Cr Olds said up to five options would be considered but warned it could be a three to five-year-project.
