Gladstone Ports Corporation has awarded the tender for works at the Boyne River in Queensland, to restore a safe passage and navigable channel for boaties.
Local company East Coast Maritime has been appointed to undertake the works, with activity at the river mouth to commence by mid-February 2018.
Material will be removed from the 15m wide channel, clearing the way for vessels to have safe passage through the mouth of the river at all tides.
Gladstone Ports Corporation CEO, Peter O’Sullivan, said significant flood events in 2011 and 2013 caused significant shoaling at the channel entrance, posing restrictions and risks for vessel operators and their passengers.
“This will be the first maintenance dredging program since the Boyne River entrance channel was constructed,” Mr O’Sullivan said.
“We are confident this project will significantly improve safety and navigation for those out on the water.”
Gladstone Ports Corporation has taken community concerns into consideration in deciding the best methodology.
The work will now be undertaken using a backhoe and barge method, with the material to be taken via barge to existing marine facilities near the Gladstone Marina and unloaded at designated fill areas adjacent to the RG Tanna Terminal.
“In selecting this method, we’ve diligently considered and minimised the impact on the environment,” Mr O’Sullivan said.
“This method also avoids material placement near the Boyne River, which would have resulted in restricted public access and truck interactions in a residential area.”
CAPTION: Member for Gladstone Glenn Butcher and GPC CEO Peter O’Sullivan observing the site at the Boyne River.
