With locals giving feedback, the Bowen Jetty’s future is shaping up to be what the community wants.
Current CEO of North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP), Brendan Webb, asked the community how they would like to use the jetty, what improvements are needed and if they have ideas for the future.
He said, “Eight key themes were consistently raised through our engagements; amenities, history, accessibility, education, ecology, fishing, recreation and commercial activities.”
“We are also building our understanding of the cultural values of significance of the jetty through regular engagement with Juru Elders and representatives of the broader Juru community.
“Emerging themes from our conversations include the protection and preservation of local marine life and their habitat and acknowledging the Juru people’s history and their connection to Sea Country.”
The project team is now reviewing all the feedback for consideration in the design development.
“We will prioritise what is important to locals and how the Bowen Jetty can meet the community needs for generations to come,” Mr Webb said.
In June, two design options will be presented to the community for further feedback.
The refurbishment of Bowen Jetty is possible due to the Queensland Government, in June 2023, allocating $50 million, to ensure the Bowen Jetty remains safe and accessible to the public.
NQBP are responsible for the jetty’s refurbishment.
During an assessment of the jetty, studying its condition, identifying refurbishment, and comparing refurbishment to rebuilding the structure, it was found that they would exceed the $50 million if they were to conduct whole-of-life repairs.
With those plans exceeding the $50 million budget, an initial refurbishment could be achieved within the budget allocated, but over time, further enhancements and refurbishments would exceed this.
After hearing from local residents, business operators, community groups, school students, elected representatives and tourism operators, NQBP are working on designs that the community will approve of whilst also sticking within their budget.
North Queensland Bulk Ports pop up at the Multicultural Fair
Bowen Wharf enquiry by Design Workshop
Photos Supplied
