The Southern Moreton Bay Islands Ferry Terminal Upgrades Project has entered an exciting new phase, with Redland City Council and the Queensland Government announcing the tender process for construction of the upgrades was underway.
The announcement follows the recent finalisation of the detailed design, which now include new toilet facilities for the upgraded Russell and Macleay island ferry terminals.
Mayor Karen Williams said these project developments were exciting.
“These are all positive steps forward in delivering the much-anticipated works,” she said.
“While this particular phase is complex and may take some time, it is important that we ensure value for the community; and once the contract is awarded, construction can begin.
“The 3D graphics of the detailed drawings and the terminals’ perforated screens’ artwork, designed by Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation, are also available for the community to view via the project’s page on Council’s Your Say site.
“While some operational matters required the project team and ferry operators to revisit the preliminary designs, key themes and requests identified by the community during last year’s consultation period are still in the designs.
“This includes features such as repurposed gangways and pontoons for recreational use, increased seating, provision for Wi-Fi, drinking fountains, improved security with lighting and 24-hour video recording, enhanced weather screening and more waiting areas for better weather protection, and wider jetties and gangways for improved accessibility.
“To top it off, the Russell and Macleay island ferry terminals will have new toilet blocks built closer to the terminals as part of the project.”
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said he was pleased to announce tenders for construction of the four ferry terminals had been combined into one contract.
“The project team has done a significant amount of work to reach this milestone and it is wonderful news for the island communities that we are now another step nearer,” Mr Bailey said.
Member for Redlands Kim Richards said the tender was now open for five weeks, closing next month (October).
“The project will support an average of 45 direct jobs over the life of the works at a time when they’re needed most,” Ms Richards said.
”We’re committed to keeping Queensland moving and investing in the Redlands community during this difficult period.”
Division 5 Councillor Mark Edwards said the final detailed design and tender process brought delivery of the upgraded ferry terminals one step closer.
“This is great news for our island communities,” he said.
“As we know, the community has waited a long time to see the islands’ primary transportation hubs receive the upgrades they need, and it’s good to see the project moving forward.”
Companies interested to tender can view or download project documents via this link: https://etender.hpw.qld.gov.au/
For more information about the project, visit the project page at yoursay.redland.qld.gov.au/upgrade-of-smbi-ferry-terminals