Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Scott Emerson

Sunday, May 25, 2014

Infrastructure boost for Cooktown boaties

Cooktown boaties have been enjoying improved access to fishing hot spots following recent upgrades to marine infrastructure, with more work to begin shortly.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson, Member for Cook David Kempton and Cook Shire Council Mayor Peter Scott today announced further funding to upgrade the Charlotte Street wharf while inspecting repair works following ex-tropical Cyclone Ita.


“Cooktown is known for its great fishing and as part of our strong plan for a brighter future we are investing almost $3million on marine infrastructure improvements,” Mr Emerson said.


“Already Cooktown is benefiting from an upgraded boat ramp and new floating walkway and work will soon start on a $642,000 upgrade to the Charlotte Street wharf.
“This upgrade is part of a $3 million package of works for Cooktown that falls under the Marine Infrastructure and Maintenance fund we promised at the election.
“The former Labor government ignored the region’s marine infrastructure but we are improving harbour access for boaties through this upgrade, which should be completed by November.”


Mr Kempton said works had also been fast tracked to repair some damage done to the floating walkway following Cyclone Ita.


“Cooktown is a real draw card for visitors and boaties and we are getting on with the job of repairing the damage to the new floating walkway that was completed in February,” Mr Kempton said.


“The new walkway has been a welcome additional for boaties as they can moor both sides ensuring better access for berthing.


“Commercial and recreational boaties will also benefit from a $1.5 million project to dredge the Endeavour River harbour due to start next month removing about 50,000 cubic metres of material from the harbour and entrance channel.” Mr Scott welcomed the investment, particularly the upgrade to the wharf that will serve the growing recreational boating public for years to come.


“The wharf upgrade will provide a facility for our shire with minimal to no further maintenance required for up to 50 years,” Mr Scott said.


“We also welcome the Queensland government’s decision to hand over responsibility for the maintenance of the Wharf to the Cook Shire Council once the upgrade is complete.


“This is something we have been asking for over a long period of time and we are pleased the government has listened.”


[ENDS] 25 May 2014
Media Contact: Andrew Berkman 0429 128 637