Southern Moreton Bay Islands Ferry Terminals Upgrade

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The Southern Moreton Bay Islands Ferry Terminals Upgrade project has been in planning by Council and the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) since 2014.

Council and TMR are working in partnership to deliver new ferry terminals at Russell, Macleay, Lamb, and Karragarra islands in consultation with island communities, Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation, SeaLink, and other key stakeholders. The project will also include repurposing the existing ferry pontoons and jetties for recreational use, such as fishing and mooring.

The new ferry terminals will meet the full requirements of the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport 2002, which are made under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.

Find out more and get involved

  • Check out the ferry terminals' 3D images and screen artwork
  • Watch the preliminary design video
  • Read through our resources, FAQs, and news feed
  • Subscribe to receive project updates straight to your inbox

The Southern Moreton Bay Islands Ferry Terminals Upgrade project has been in planning by Council and the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) since 2014.

Council and TMR are working in partnership to deliver new ferry terminals at Russell, Macleay, Lamb, and Karragarra islands in consultation with island communities, Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation, SeaLink, and other key stakeholders. The project will also include repurposing the existing ferry pontoons and jetties for recreational use, such as fishing and mooring.

The new ferry terminals will meet the full requirements of the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport 2002, which are made under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.

Find out more and get involved

  • Check out the ferry terminals' 3D images and screen artwork
  • Watch the preliminary design video
  • Read through our resources, FAQs, and news feed
  • Subscribe to receive project updates straight to your inbox
  • Upcoming Lamb Island ferry terminal overnight closure

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    From 8.00pm until the last service on Saturday 16 September, Southern Moreton Bay Island (SMBI) ferry services will be unable to stop at Lamb Island due to the installation of the island's new pontoon and operational switchover to use the new ferry terminal.

    The essential night works have been timed around suitable conditions, with minimal disruptions to ferry customers and Lamb Island residents.

    If you need to travel to or from Lamb Island during this time, you'll need to use our replacement shuttle service. Staff will be located at Lamb and Macleay Islands to help you get on and off.

    • If you're travelling from Lamb Island, please catch the replacement shuttle and transfer to your regular SMBI ferry service at Macleay Island.
    • If you're travelling to Lamb Island, please transfer from your regular SMBI ferry service at Macleay Island to the replacement shuttle service.

    The last unaffected service departing Lamb Island will leave at 7:30pm on Saturday 16 September, arriving at Russell Island at 7:35pm.

    Services from Lamb Island will resume as normal from 5.28am on Sunday 17 September.

    For more information and to stay up-to-date, please visit TransLink's website.

  • June project update

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    Russell Island ferry terminal construction

    Practical completion of the new Russell Island ferry terminal and recreational boating facility occurred on 28 April 2023. The official commissioning of the Russell Island terminal took place on 1 June 2023.

    There are still some minor repair and rectification works on the terminal to be completed in the near future.

    Redland City Council now owns and manages the facility.


    Russell Island ferry terminal as seen from the recreational pontoon.

    Macleay Island ferry terminal construction

    As the works near completion, a staged operational phase will continue:

    • Stage 1: New ferry terminal - progressive switchover to use the new facility occurred on Wednesday 31 May 2023. The outer berth is in use, inner berth to remain closed until stage 2 works are completed.
    • Stage 2: Recreational boating facilities - existing ferry terminal to remain and be repurposed for recreational boating. New floating walkway to be installed at the public boat ramp by late June 2023.
    • Stage 3: Landside works - includes completion of the new amenities block.

    Overall completion is currently planned for August 2023. The site will remain an active construction zone until this time. Please observe all wayfinding signage and use caution around the worksite.

    Lamb Island ferry terminal construction

    Construction continues including works on the jetty, jetty roof, gangway and landside facilities.

    The pontoon fit-out is now complete with the float-out to Lamb Island planned for the week of 3 July 2023.

    As the works near completion on site, a staged operational phase will occur:

    • Stage 1: New ferry terminal - progressive switchover to the new facility currently planned as overnight works from Friday 7 July to Saturday 8 July 2023 (more details provided below).
    • Stage 2: Recreational boating facilities - existing ferry terminal to remain and be repurposed for recreational boating.
    • Stage 3: Landside works – completion of landside works including new sheltered area.

    Due to the footprint of the new Lamb Island terminal, it is necessary to undertake night works to install the gangway and switchover to use the new pontoon. These works have been timed around suitable conditions with minimum disruptions to ferry customers and Lamb Island residents.

    As part of the switchover to use the new ferry terminal, there will be a minor ferry service disruption.

    The following two passenger ferry services will not stop at Lamb Island on Saturday 8 July 2023:

    • departing Lamb Island at 12:30am
    • departing Lamb Island at 4:23am.

    Passengers travelling to or from Lamb Island on this date, please travel before or after these times.

    For further information please refer to Translink's service update page: Lamb Island ferry terminal - night closure | Translink

    Demobilising traffic control at the site will coincide with the switchover to the new ferry terminal. Please note, beyond 7 July 2023 several car parking spaces directly in front of the site will remain closed off to enable works on the recreational facility.

    Overall completion is currently planned for late-July 2023.

    Karragarra Island ferry terminal construction

    The pontoon fit-out continues at Thornlands prior to its scheduled float-out in late-June 2023.

    Onsite works continue with the gangway roof installation progressing well. Landscaping to be completed as part of the landside works.

    Traffic control to remain until the completion of works, currently planned for late-July 2023.

    What to expect during construction

    • Presence of construction personnel including traffic controllers, surveyors and trades people
    • Onsite works – noise and vibration; bus zone temporary relocation; earthworks and conduit installation
    • Changed traffic conditions and pedestrian detours

    The project team would like to remind customers to please use caution at the construction sites. We appreciate your patience and continued support during the delivery of this project.

    The project team has taken pride in delivering the new ferry terminals project. We would like to encourage and remind the community to help protect and respect these vital community assets, in addition to the environment and the bay.

    Dates are correct at time of issue, and subject to change.

    To contact the TMR project team, please email boatinginfrastructure@msq.qld.gov.au or phone 13 QGOV (13 74 68).

  • Russell Island's ferry terminal officially opens

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    The new Russell Island ferry terminal as seen from the new recreational pontoon gangway.

    • The new Russell Island ferry terminal is now complete and open for passengers.
    • The $48.6 million Southern Moreton Bay Islands (SMBI) Ferry Terminals Upgrade project is being jointly funded and delivered by TMR and Redland City Council.
    • Russell Island is the first of the four islands’ ferry terminal upgrades completed.

    The new Russell Island ferry terminal has officially opened, marking another significant milestone for the Southern Moreton Bay Islands Ferry Terminals Upgrade project.

    The modern design of the new Russell Island ferry terminal provides much-needed safety improvements for ferry customers and recreational boaties.

    Ferry customers will now benefit from the larger, accessible pontoon and waiting areas.

    Russell Island's dual berthing pontoon has allowed Translink's passenger ferries to use the outer berth (anticlockwise) towards Lamb Island, and the inner berth (clockwise) towards Redland Bay Marina.

    This will assist with managing the passenger ferry timetable, now and into the future.

    The four new passenger ferry terminals for Russell, Macleay, Lamb and Karragarra islands boast vast improvements including:

    • larger waiting areas with more seating
    • improved weather protection
    • wider gangways and enhanced circulation spaces
    • new amenities blocks (Russell and Macleay islands only) and new landside shelters
    • security cameras to improve passenger safety
    • meeting the requirements of the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport 2002
    • larger pontoons to accommodate future passenger growth
    • smart lighting and remote lighting control systems
    • digital timetable information
    • unique Quandamooka artwork on screening and storyboards
    • new and repurposed existing jetty and gangway elements for recreational boating and fishing.

    Another significant milestone for the overall project also took place this week (31 May) with the operational switchover for ferry passengers to use the new Macleay Island terminal.

    Upcoming milestones planned for June include the pontoon float-outs for Karragarra and Lamb islands.

    The Southern Moreton Bay Islands Ferry Terminals Upgrade project is a jointly funded $48.6 million project, with the Queensland Government contributing $31.5 million and Redland City Council contributing $17.1 million.

    There are no changes to Translink’s SMBI ferry timetable with services operating at Russell Island as normal and viewable at Southern Moreton Bay Island Ferry | Translink

    Quotes attributable to the Member for Redlands Kim Richards:

    "Today is a fantastic day for the Redlands community, with the official grand opening of the Russell Island ferry terminal, the first of four new bay island terminals to be delivered.

    “A striking feature of the new terminals catching everyone’s eye is the Quandamooka artwork on the screening, giving a unique identity to each island and really bringing the facilities to life.

    “The contractor, The Jetty Specialist, is working extremely hard to deliver the overall project under some very challenging conditions and the quality of the work continues to impress.

    "Locals and visitors to the island can now use the dedicated recreational boating pontoon for fishing and mooring, keeping in mind that the commercial and recreational users are now separated – the ferry terminal pontoon is only for use by the ferries.

    “I’m proud to be part of a government that delivers city-shaping infrastructure and opportunities like this for locals and visitors.

    "Construction has really ramped up on Macleay, Lamb and Karragarra islands, with overall completion on track for mid-2023.”

    Quotes attributable to Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey:

    “The Palaszczuk Government is prioritising better infrastructure and services all over Queensland, assisting communities where it's needed most.

    "Planning for the SMBI ferry terminal project has been underway since 2014. Nine years of planning, consultation, design, and construction phases all coming to fruition in 2023.

    "I am pleased to say the design life of the new infrastructure is 50 years which will provide ongoing benefits for the bay islands well into the future.

    “This project is a great example of collaboration between the state government and local government working together with local communities to deliver vital infrastructure for Queenslanders."

    Quotes attributable to Redland City Mayor Karen Williams:

    "The official opening of the Russell Island ferry terminal marks a momentous achievement in the largest infrastructure investment yet brought to our Southern Moreton Bay Islands.

    "The biggest of the four islands’ ferry terminals, the Russell Island ferry terminal is representative of the entire project, which nears its completion after years of planning, community consultation and at times challenging construction.

    "Its unveiling comes as our SMBI make great strides in popularity, with visitors and residents travelling from near and far to enjoy a truly unique lifestyle and experience.

    "In addition to its vast improvement in amenity and service, the Russell Island ferry terminal is notable for combining future-proofed utility with personalised design.

    "Thorough community consultation ensured residents played a critical role in choosing the colour scheme, and close work with Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation (QYAC) allowed for celebration of the island’s rich Indigenous history and art."

    Quotes attributable to Division 5 Councillor Mark Edwards:

    "The Southern Moreton Bay Islands Ferry Terminals Upgrade project is testament to an effective partnership between local and state government.

    "Together with Redland City Council’s $17.1 million investment, Council will maintain this impressive facility, along with those soon to come online at Karragarra, Lamb and Macleay islands, going forward.

    "The Russell Island ferry terminal caters to residents and visitors like never before and heralds a dynamic shift in the island’s development.

    "Of note is its Australian Standard disability access, its splendid build quality and the many years of service it will provide to our naturally stunning city.

    "I am also heartened by the pride Council and TMR have had in bringing this project to life and trust the community will experience a likewise sentiment in its use and care."

    For more information on the project email the project team at boatinginfrastructure@msq.qld.gov.au


  • Project April update

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    Russell Island ferry terminal construction

    The switchover to the new ferry terminal occurred as planned on 6 February 2023.

    Stage 2 works on the recreational boating facilities section are progressing with its opening planned for late-

    April 2023.

    Practical completion of the overall project is also planned for late-April 2023. The site will remain an active

    construction zone until this time. Please observe signage about the changed pedestrian access and use

    caution around the worksite.

    An official opening is planned for early May 2023.

    Macleay Island ferry terminal construction

    Construction continues on site including works on the jetty, jetty roof, gangway and landside facilities.

    As the works near completion, a staged operational phase is now planned from May 2023.

    • Stage 1: New ferry terminal - progressive switchover to the new facility
    • Stage 2: Recreational boating facilities - existing ferry terminal to remain and be repurposed for
    • recreational boating
    • Stage 3: Landside works - includes completion of the new amenities block.

    The pedestrian detour currently in place will continue to be altered as necessary, with essential foundation

    works required at the existing jetty access point prior to the pedestrian switchover.

    Construction works continue at the new Macleay Island ferry terminal jetty.

    Lamb Island ferry terminal construction

    Onsite works continue with foundation works, concrete pours and installation of four new pontoon piles.

    The pontoon roof installation and fit-out continues at Thornlands prior to its float-out to Lamb Island, currently planned for May 2023.

    Lamb Island jetty construction and piling works.

    Karragarra Island ferry terminal construction

    The pontoon roof installation and fit-out continues at Thornlands prior to its scheduled float-out to Karragarra Island in May 2023.

    Onsite works continue; concrete pours and the gangway roof installation have commenced.

    Traffic control will remain until completion of works.

    Karragarra Island ferry terminal pontoon fit-out continues.

    What to expect during construction

    • Presence of construction personnel including traffic controllers, surveyors and trades people
    • Piling works – noise and vibration; bus zone temporary relocation; earthworks; conduit installation
    • Establishment of ferry terminal work zone, including changed traffic conditions and pedestrian detours
    • Demolition of existing concrete foundations; new concrete slabs to be poured.

    The overall project remains on track for completion in mid-2023.

    The project team would like to remind customers to please use caution at the construction sites. We

    appreciate your patience and continued support during the delivery of this project.

    The project team has taken pride in delivering the new ferry terminal project. We would like to encourage

    and remind the community to help protect and respect these vital community assets, in addition to the

    environment and the bay.

    To contact the TMR project team, please email boatinginfrastructure@msq.qld.gov.au or phone 13 QGOV (13 74 68).


  • New Russell Island ferry terminal good to go

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    Russell Island's new ferry terminal is ready for passenger services.

    Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the opening was a major milestone in the Palaszczuk Government’s $48.6 million program to upgrade terminals across the Southern Moreton Bay Islands.

    “Russell Island’s new terminal is ready to go, which is a big boost for the Bay Islands,” Mr Bailey said.

    “We’re not stopping here either – the Palaszczuk Labor Government is working with Redland City Council to build new terminals at Macleay, Lamb and Karragarra islands as well.

    “It comes as part of our nearly $3.9 billion, four-year transport and road plan for Greater Brisbane, supporting 3280 good, secure jobs.”

    Member for Redlands Kim Richards said the new terminal’s first service departed Russell Island at 11am on 6 February 2023.

    “Sealink masters recently gave the new facility the tick of approval after successfully completing sea trials, which is really exciting news for the Bay Islands,” Ms Richards said.

    “But we’re continuing to upgrade the facility – next, crews will be dismantling the temporary access gangway and repurposing it for recreational boating.

    “The last stage will focus on landside works, and will include completing the new amenities block.

    “The Palaszczuk Labor Government is getting on with building new ferry terminals, making it easier for our coastal communities to get around.

    “We’re delivering better services all over the state, helping Queenslanders spend more time enjoying our great lifestyle.”

    A grand opening to mark the completion of the new Russell Island ferry terminal final stage is planned for April 2023.

    Important upcoming milestones for the other Southern Moreton Bay Islands included a passenger switchover for the new Macleay Island ferry terminal, along with pontoon float-outs for Karragarra and Lamb islands, all scheduled for April.

    Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the switchover marked an important step for what was a landscape-changing project.

    “It is fantastic to see our residents and visitors take the first step in using a new ferry terminal that will set the scene for our ever-developing Southern Moreton Bay Islands,” Cr Williams said.

    “The terminal’s quality and design will allow users a much-improved transport experience linking the SMBI to the rest of Redlands Coast while providing customers with ample room to move and a spacious and well thought out, accessible waiting area.

    “This milestone is just one in a series of coming celebrations as the project continues.”

    Division 5 Councillor Mark Edwards said it was great to see the terminal combined practical design with art that honoured each island’s proud First Nations heritage.

    “The Redlands Coast now boasts a ferry terminal infrastructure that reflects its rich cultural heritage,” Cr Edwards said.

    “I am pleased to see Quandamooka art give life and colour to the terminal with its striking weather protection panels.

    “Not only will users be protected from nature’s elements but their journeys also will be enhanced with greater amenity.

    “The dynamic, dolphin motif will be unique to Russell Island, with Karragarra, Lamb and Macleay islands to have their own designs and colour schemes.

    “We thank the State Government for its sensitive community consultation and close work with Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation, which ensured the unique design.”

    Overall works on the four new terminals are planned for completion in mid 2023.

    The Southern Moreton Bay Islands Ferry Terminals Upgrade project is a jointly funded $48.6 million project, with the Queensland Government contributing $31.5 million and Redland City Council contributing $17.1 million.

    For more information on the project email the project team at boatinginfrastructure@msq.qld.gov.au

  • Project February update

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    Russell Island ferry terminal construction

    Works are nearing completion with the switchover to the new ferry terminal planned for Monday, 6 February

    2023. Weather permitting, this is planned to take effect from the 11am ferry service at Russell Island.

    Access to the new terminal will be via a revised temporary pedestrian crossing. The site will remain an

    active construction site until the completion of works, currently planned for April 2023. Please observe the

    revised signage around the changed pedestrian access and use caution around the worksite.

    Ferry services will continue as per the current schedule from the new Russell Island ferry terminal.

    Once the new ferry terminal is in use, Stage 2 works on the recreational boating facilities will commence in

    early February 2023. This involves dismantling the temporary access gangway for repurposing.

    The construction of Stage 3, which encompasses the landside works, will continue through to April 2023,

    including completion of the new amenities block.

    Construction of the new Russell Island ferry terminal nears completion.

    Macleay Island ferry terminal construction

    Construction works continue on site including the jetty, jetty roof, gangway and landside works.

    As the works near completion, a staged operational phase is planned from April 2023.

    • Stage 1: New ferry terminal - progressive switchover to the new facility.
    • Stage 2: Recreational boating facilities - existing ferry terminal to remain and be repurposed for recreational boating. Involves reconfiguring the pontoon alignment.
    • Stage 3: Landside works - includes completion of the new amenities block.

    Macleay Island boat ramp floating walkway:

    Installation of the new floating walkway on the public boat ramp will now occur in April-May 2023

    following the switchover to the new ferry terminal, weather permitting.

    Lamb Island ferry terminal construction

    Onsite works will increase over the coming months. The pontoon roof installation and fit-out is continuing at

    Thornlands prior to its float-out to Lamb Island, currently planned for April 2023.

    Traffic control will be implemented in early February 2023 to allow for delivery of materials and construction

    of the landside works. The altered traffic conditions will remain until completion of the works.

    Lamb Island jetty construction.

    Karragarra Island ferry terminal construction

    Onsite works will increase over the coming months. The pontoon roof installation and fit-out is continuing at

    Thornlands prior to its float-out to Lamb Island, currently planned for April 2023.

    Traffic control is now in place to allow for delivery of materials and manoeuvring of large equipment at the

    site. The altered traffic conditions will remain until completion of the works.

    What to expect during construction:

    • Presence of construction personnel including traffic controllers, surveyors and trades people
    • Piling works – noise and vibration; bus zone temporary relocation; earthworks; conduit installation
    • Establishment of ferry terminal work zone including changed traffic conditions and pedestrian detours
    • Demolition of existing concrete foundations; new concrete slabs to be poured.

    The overall project remains on track for completion in mid-2023.

    The project team would like to remind customers to please use caution at the construction sites. We

    appreciate your patience and continued support during the delivery of this project.

    To contact the TMR project team, please email boatinginfrastructure@msq.qld.gov.au or phone 13 QGOV (13 74 68).

  • Project December update

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    Russell Island ferry terminal construction

    Works continue on the pontoon, jetty, jetty roof, gangway and screens, along with the landside works.

    As the works near completion, a staged operational phase is planned in early 2023.

    • Stage 1: New ferry terminal - progressive switchover to the new facility is planned for early 2023
    • Stage 2: Recreational boating facilities - involves dismantling the temporary access gangway for repurposing
    • Stage 3: Landside works - including completion of the new amenities block.

    Russell Island ferry terminal screening with artwork.Macleay Island ferry terminal construction

    Works continue on the jetty, jetty roof, gangway and landside works.

    Landside works:

    • A revised traffic management plan will be implemented to allow for the stormwater drain underneath the roundabout to be upgraded. This is a necessary upgrade as the area is subject to flooding.
    • This will be undertaken in a staged approach with traffic management in place for approximately two months commencing in early 2023, weather permitting.

    Macleay Island ferry terminal construction. Lamb Island ferry terminal construction

    Works continue on the jetty with precast concrete elements installed and the jetty concrete deck complete.

    The pontoon roof installation and fit-out is continuing at Thornlands prior to its float-out to Lamb Island.

    Karragarra Island ferry terminal construction

    Jetty construction works are well underway with all precast concrete elements now installed and the jetty concrete deck completed. Landside works have also commenced.

    The pontoon was transported from the contractor’s factory at the Sunshine Coast to Thornlands in mid-November 2022, where it is now undergoing final fit-out.

    Arrival of the Karragarra Island pontoon at Thornlands.

    What to expect during construction

    • Presence of construction personnel including traffic controllers, surveyors and trades people
    • Piling works – noise and vibration; bus zone temporary relocation; earthworks; conduit installation
    • Establishment of ferry terminal work zone including changed traffic conditions and pedestrian detours
    • Demolition of existing concrete foundations; new concrete slabs to be poured.

    The overall project remains on track for completion in mid-2023.

    The project team would like to remind customers to please use caution at the construction sites. We appreciate your patience and continued support during the delivery of this project.

    To contact the TMR project team, please email them at boatinginfrastructure@msq.qld.gov.au

  • Better services on horizon as ferry terminal hits water

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    The delivery of Macleay Island's new pontoon marks another key milestone in a $44.6 million ferry terminal upgrade project boosting transport services and supporting local economies.

    Favourable tidal and weather conditions allowed the new pontoon to be floated to its destination on Macleay Island as part of the Southern Moreton Bay Islands (SMBI) Ferry Terminals Upgrade project.

    The project is being delivered by the Palaszczuk Government in partnership with Redland City Council and provides new ferry terminals at Russell, Macleay, Lamb, and Karragarra islands.

    Member for Redlands Kim Richards celebrated the progress of the project so far.

    “Upgrading ferry terminals on the islands will refresh the area while improving accessibility for the region,” Ms Richards said.

    "I’m proud to stand as part of the Palaszczuk Labor Government that is committed to supporting good jobs and better transport services right across the state.

    “This investment in transport infrastructure not only supports jobs on the islands, but employment opportunities have been created in the design, manufacture, construction and installation of the ferry terminals as well.

    “Around 45 direct jobs are being supported over the life of this important infrastructure project, at a time when it is so important to have secure work.

    “Thank you to all involved in building new ferry terminals for the island communities that need them most through one of the region’s largest transport infrastructure projects.”

    Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the project was at an important stage with construction underway on the ferry terminals across all four islands.

    "The delivery of the new pontoon is an exciting step for the Macleay Island community toward having a facility which will meet the transport needs of locals and tourists moving forward," Mr Bailey said.

    “Kim Richards has been a strong advocate for this project from the start, and this milestone puts us one step closer to completion.”

    Ms Richards said the Macleay Island pontoon float-out involved detailed planning prior to its departure from Eprapah Creek.

    "The contractor took a different approach this time, with most of the Macleay Island pontoon roof fit-out completed prior to its arrival on site,” she said.

    "Now that the pontoon is here, work will continue on the pontoon and jetty, installation of the gangway, and delivery of the landside works.

    "I am very pleased to say that completion of the new Macleay Island ferry terminal is on track for early next year, weather permitting.

    “It’s investment like this that you only see from a Labor Government, delivering for the people of the Redlands.”

    Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the arrival of the Macleay Island pontoon was another significant milestone in a project set to improve travel to and from the islands.

    “The joint Southern Moreton Bay Island Ferry Terminals Upgrade project represents one of the biggest infrastructure investments in the SMBI communities,” Cr Williams said.

    “Redland City Council is committed to ensuring our remote Southern Moreton Bay Island communities are provided with safe, reliable and accessible transport to and from the mainland.

    “The new pontoon is one step further in fulfilling that commitment.

    “Council has contributed $15.4 million to the project and will also fund maintenance for all four terminals on Macleay, Russell, Lamb and Karragarra islands, once they are complete.

    “The new pontoon not only looks fantastic but will provide a better waiting environment for customers and protection from the weather.”

    Division 5 Councillor Mark Edwards said he was pleased with the Quandamooka artwork gracing the ferry terminal’s walkways and the colour schemes that were developed in consultation with each island community.

    “The pontoon’s unveiling represents yet another marker in a productive partnership with the State Government to bring much improved amenity to the SMBI community,” Cr Edwards said.

    “Thanks to careful attention to cultural heritage by the Department of Transport and Main Roads and the Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation the design features the island’s mangrove motif.

    “In addition to the much improved aesthetics, residents and visitors alike are able to enjoy greater ease of access and protection from the elements.

    “As popularity in our SMBI grow, the new ferry terminals may very well become tourism draw cards in their own rights.

    “More is still to come.

    “Work on similar facilities at Karragarra and Lamb islands continues, with completion expected by mid-2023.”

    The new Macleay Island ferry terminal components were fabricated at The Jetty Specialist factory at the Sunshine Coast before moving to Aluminium Marine at Thornlands for the final fit-out.

    The project also includes re-purposing the existing pontoons and jetties for recreational use, such as fishing and mooring.

    When complete, ferry customers will benefit from increased seating, drinking fountains, more waiting areas with better weather protection, improved security and lighting, and wider jetties and gangways for improved accessibility.

    Overall works on the four new terminals are planned for completion in mid-2023, with Russell Island scheduled for completion late-2022 (weather permitting).

    The SMBI Ferry Terminals Upgrade project is a jointly funded $44.6 million project, with the Queensland Government contributing $29.2 million and Redland City Council contributing $15.4 million.

    For more information on the project, visit the project page at yoursay.redland.qld.gov.au/upgrade-of-smbi-ferry-terminals or email the project team at boatinginfrastructure@msq.qld.gov.au

  • Project August update

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    Macleay Island ferry terminal construction

    With piling nearing completion the jetty construction, service installation, drainage and foundation works are well underway.

    The pontoon float-out from Thornlands to the island is now planned for early September 2022, weather and tidal conditions permitting. Fabrication of the ferry gangway at the Thornlands factory is almost complete.

    Russell Island ferry terminal construction

    Works on the jetty, gangway and landside are continuing with installation of the jetty roof structure planned to commence in the coming weeks, weather permitting.

    The landside works are progressing well with installation of services, drainage and foundation works ongoing. The landside shelter structures are currently being fabricated offsite.

    Lamb Island ferry terminal fabrication works

    As advised to stakeholders in the June update, the Lamb Island bus shelter has been removed to allow onsite piling works to commence, now planned for early August 2022.

    Passengers are encouraged to use the eastern shelter in the interim until the new works are complete.

    Please note, the pathway adjacent to the altered site will be fenced off to allow for the works. Residents are asked to kindly use the remaining pathway running alongside the eastern shelter.

    The final fit-out of the pontoon is underway at Thornlands prior to its float-out, planned for late 2022.

    Karragarra Island ferry terminal fabrication works

    Piling work is due to commence in early to mid August 2022. Onsite pre-works to allow for the piling equipment has commenced.

    Initially it was planned for the large cottonwood tree between the existing ferry terminal gangway and the shelter to undergo extensive branch trimming and remain in place.

    However, after the initial trimming work by the contractor, the project team can advise that the tree is now planned to be fully removed and replaced with another mature cottonwood tree. The project team will provide further updates to Karragarra residents on this issue.

    Fabrication of the pontoon has commenced at the contractor’s factory. It is due to be transported to Thornlands for fit-out in late 2022.

    What to expect during construction:

    • Presence of construction personnel including traffic controllers, surveyors and service investigators
    • Piling works – noise and vibration; bus zone temporary relocation
    • Changed traffic conditions in Macleay Island ferry terminal car park
    • Establishment of ferry terminal work zone and pedestrian detours at Lamb and Karragarra islands.

    In order to maximise efficiencies of the overall project and keep delivery on schedule, the contractor's works schedule may change as necessary between islands.

    Project updates will continue to provide a look-ahead of current and planned activities.

    The project team would like to remind customers to please use caution at the construction sites. We appreciate your patience and continued support during the delivery of this project.

    To contact the TMR project team, please email them at boatinginfrastructure@msq.qld.gov.au

  • Floating to the finish line

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    The Southern Moreton Bay Islands (SMBI) ferry terminals upgrade is one step closer to completion as Russell Island’s new pontoon arrives onsite.

    Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the SMBI ferry terminal upgrade marked a milestone for growth in the Redlands.

    “This $44.6 million project is delivering big for the local economy through better amenities and access to ferry services for locals,” Mr Bailey said.

    “Thanks to the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to transport infrastructure, we are getting on with the job and building new ferry terminals where they are needed most.”

    Member for Redlands Kim Richards said Russell, Macleay, Lamb and Karragarra islands would see new terminals built by mid-2023.

    “I’m proud to see the new pontoon now onsite at Russell Island, marking great progress for the new facility which will service locals and tourists well into the future.

    “Locals can see the magnitude of the new facility and the finish line for the completion of the new facility is well within reach.

    "The float out of the pontoon involved detailed planning before departure, with logistics of the move considering the most suitable tide and weather conditions to safely navigate such a large structure out through Eprapah Creek and Moreton Bay to the island.

    “Not only is this supporting jobs on our islands, but we’re creating quality employment opportunities in design, manufacturing, construction and installation as the project progresses.

    "Now the pontoon has arrived at Russell Island, the next steps will include continued construction work on the jetty and pontoon, installing the gangway, and delivery of the landside works.

    "Completion of the new Russell Island ferry terminal remains on track for later this year (2022).”

    Ms Richards said the focal point of the $44.6 million investment was to improve accessibility of ferry terminals on the islands.

    “This project will deliver raised land levels, new accessible waiting shelters and seating, new accessible amenities blocks for Russell and Macleay Islands and new walkways, alongside the new ferry terminals,” she said.

    “The project will also include repurposing the existing ferry pontoons and jetties for recreational use, like fishing and mooring.

    “I really appreciate the patience of locals during this time and can’t wait to see the terminals in full use once completed next year.”

    Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the arrival of the Russell Island pontoon was a major milestone in the long-awaited project.

    “This is a red-letter day for our Southern Moreton Bay Islands and shows what can be achieved when different levels of government work together.

    “Following completion of the Russell Island ferry terminal, Council will upgrade the adjacent car park, upgrading footpaths, installing new lighting and building a bus and drop-off zone, more accessible parking bays and an additional 64 parking spaces.

    “On-site works at the Macleay Island ferry terminal are in full swing, and fabrication works are continuing on the Lamb Island pontoon, with onsite works at Lamb Island planned to commence in late-2022.

    “Work on the Karragarra Island ferry terminal pontoon will start once the Lamb Island pontoon is transported to Aluminium Marine in Thornlands for the fitout work.

    “Council is pleased to partner with the State Government to deliver this project to help ensure the SMBI community and visitors receive the facilities they need.”

    Division 5 Councillor Mark Edwards said the project’s progress was exciting, and he was looking forward to delivering the long-awaited ferry terminals.

    “The SMBI Ferry Terminals Upgrade project is one of the largest investments in island infrastructure and will help residents travel to and from the islands easier and safer,” Cr Edwards said.

    “I’d like to thank the community’s invaluable input and support that has helped us bring the project to where it is today.

    “The new ferry terminals will provide safe and accessible marine infrastructure for island residents, visitors, and business owners.

    “The project also includes repurposing the existing pontoons and jetties for recreational use, such as fishing and mooring.”

    Overall works on the four new terminals are planned for completion in mid-2023, with Russell Island scheduled for completion late-2022 (weather permitting).

    When complete, ferry customers will benefit from increased seating, drinking fountains, more waiting areas with better weather protection, and improved security and lighting.

    The SMBI Ferry Terminals Upgrade project is a jointly funded $44.6 million project, with the Queensland Government contributing $29.2 million and Redland City Council contributing $15.4 million.

    For more information on the project, email the project team at boatinginfrastructure@msq.qld.gov.au.

Page last updated: 07 Sep 2023, 04:39 PM