The new Yarrabah jetty and pontoon were officially commissioned this week, which will be a feature of the community for years to come.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the new 165-metre-long jetty with its pontoon at Gribble Point would be great assets for the community.
“Construction of a landing at Yarrabah has been talked about for many years, and I am sure that the local community is as pleased as I am to see it finally becoming reality”, said Mr Bailey.
“This is more than just a jetty and pontoon– this fantastic new infrastructure is now an iconic piece of Yarrabah and something locals can use and be proud of for many years to come.
“A huge congratulations goes out to local member Curtis Pitt who has championed this project since coming to office, after working closely with local community leaders to advocate for funding.”
Speaker of the Legislative Assembly and Member for Mulgrave Curtis Pitt praised the work of Transport and Main Roads, in partnership with the Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council.
“I had advocated long and hard to secure the funding that would see this important project delivered for the community,” Mr Pitt said.
“As Queensland’s largest Indigenous community, it was important that the area had the right access and could capitalise on the economic opportunities of the region.
“From identifying a suitable location to applying appropriate finishing touches, the people of Yarrabah have been on board for every step of the journey.
“Where possible, the project team has incorporated design elements from the local community into the jetty and pontoon structures.
“The jetty and pontoon and their approaches feature unique, striking images of Traditional Owner totems sandblasted into the concrete decks.
“The original artworks were developed specifically for the project by a local Gunggandji artist.”
Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council Mayor Ross Andrews congratulated all involved.
“Brady Marine’s Engineer, Department of Transport and Main Roads alongside the Gunggandji PBC should be commended for completing the largest piece of infrastructure invested into the Yarrabah community on time and within budget – well done,” Mayor Andrews said.
“This piece of infrastructure provides a further link that will allow us to become ‘tourism ready’ as Yarrabah embarks upon opportunities to showcase our authentic Indigenous art and culture.”
Mr Pitt said Transport and Main Roads had also worked with local elders to develop interpretive signage.
Mr Bailey the project had supported good jobs in the community throughout construction.
“Contractor Brady Marine and Civil has been onboard to build both the jetty and pontoon, and has worked with my department to ensure training and employment opportunities were created for local workers,” he said.
“In consultation with Council and the Traditional Owners, the project has created civil constriction traineeships for Gunggandji men, employment opportunities with local security contractors, local supply opportunities and supported local artists to produce art installations.
“It’s a pleasure to join the community to celebrate the commissioning of the boat ramp today.”
For more information, visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au
