Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, has confirmed that after more than 12 years of lobbying, the Bowen Boat Harbour Master Plan is finally moving forward.
The Master Plan was an election commitment during the October 2024 election, and with funding recently allocated by the Crisafulli Government, the focus turned to timing.
Mr Last said that, following a commitment from the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, work would begin soon.
“Less than two years ago, the former government put the Master Plan project on hold for at least five years,” Mr Last said. “After lobbying the Minister directly, we have secured another win with work on the Master Plan to get underway this year.”
“The Master Plan is the missing piece when it comes to the Bowen foreshore precinct. It is absolutely essential that the redevelopment of the jetty and upgrades of the foreshore tie into any redevelopment at the harbour, and vice versa, so we end up with the best result possible.
“A mismatched series of developments along the foreshore would be a disaster for Bowen from both a tourism point of view and for locals. Getting it right the first time not only improves value for money for taxpayers, it means we get the facilities we need much quicker.
“This is an opportunity to transform the entire foreshore area into an oasis for locals and tourists alike, less than one kilometre from the Bowen CBD. It’s about realising Bowen’s potential when it comes to economic development and job creation.
“The reality is that the Master Plan should have been completed years ago. Whenever they have been asked to, the Bowen community has engaged fully in the planning process but, despite that, nothing has been delivered.”
Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg, said the Crisafulli Government was committed to listening to the community and unlocking Bowen’s potential.
“With sailing events on Bowen’s doorstep during the 2032 Olympics, we have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to promote Bowen as a tourism destination and a place to invest,” Mr Mickelberg said.
“I thank the local member’s advocacy on behalf of his community, and I look forward to seeing the planning and engagement process progressing this year. One of the key parts of any development is community engagement, because that ensures opportunities to share ideas or raise concerns to ensure the foreshore precinct brings benefits to the entire town.
“While the previous Labor government was happy to leave Bowen in a holding pattern, we recognise the impact that the Harbour Master Plan will have on Bowen’s growth and economy.”
Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP
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