Horn Island wharf facilities to receive major upgrade
Published: 1 March 2024
Ports North is set to lead a major upgrade to the Horn Island port that will significantly increase capacity and deliver safer, more accessible passenger facilities. The $11.1 million upgrade will build on current facilities to deliver a new pontoon, passenger waiting areas and a pedestrian walkway.
The Horn Island Passenger Facility Upgrade (HIPFU) project will revitalise and expand critical infrastructure to the region to keep communities connected. Around 700 people pass through each day, mostly coming from the airport and commuting to and from Thursday Island.
Ports North CEO Richard Stevenson said the upgrade represented an important investment in the region.
“The Horn Island port facility enables essential supplies to enter the region and is part of many residents’ day-to-day living. The upgrade will increase capacity, and deliver safer, more accessible passenger facilities," he said.
“Ports North respects the importance of port infrastructure to keep communities connected. Around 700 people can pass through the Horn Island facility each day, so these improvements will substantially impact locals and visitors.
“Fabrication work will commence immediately at our contractor’s facilities in Queensland. We expect on-site construction to commence in the second half of 2024 to deliver a new pontoon, passenger waiting areas and a pedestrian walkway.
“Once finished the facility will be more resilient to weather conditions and will berth two 12 metre ferries at the same time.”
The Queensland Government has granted $4 million toward the project as part of the Maritime Infrastructure Investment Program. The remaining $7.1 million will be invested by Ports North, which is responsible for management of the facility.
A new pontoon will have roof cover to protect passengers and will be constructed with capacity to berth two 12 metre ferries at the same time, or vessels up to 25 metres. A raised pedestrian walkway will be constructed along the full length of the causeway allowing passengers to access the pontoons more comfortably. The design is compliant with standards for people with disability.
Onsite construction is due to start in the second half of the year. The project is due for completion by end of November, ahead of the wet season.