The Queensland and Federal Governments have committed to fund new barge access infrastructure for the Daintree Coast, which will help to strengthen existing local resupply points to improve safety, flood resilience and disaster readiness.
Delivered as part of the Crucial Access Links Program, funded under the joint Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), the project is set to boost access and resupply options for Daintree communities when roads in the region are cut due to severe weather.
Planning and construction will be prioritised for a new barge access point for Cape Tribulation to allow supplies and services to continue to reach residents in times of crisis, and evacuations to be carried out more efficiently.
Critical upgrades will also be undertaken at the Daintree Ferry precinct to improve vehicle access and traffic control, introduce priority lanes for emergency vehicles, and enhance ferry mooring and maintenance facilities.
Douglas Shire Council will manage delivery of the project, which has been informed by community feedback and the lived experience of recent disaster seasons.
Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery, Ann Leahy said improving access and resupply options for isolated Daintree communities was critical to strengthening disaster resilience in Far North Queensland.
“Severe weather can cut off communities very quickly in the Daintree, which is why these upgrades are so important to keeping residents connected and safe during disasters,” Minister Leahy said.
“This investment will improve emergency access, strengthen resupply options and help ensure Cape Tribulation residents can access essential services and support when they need it most.”
Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain said keeping access open during severe weather was crucial for the wellbeing of residents in remote communities.
“Strategic resilience investments like this, directly informed by the unique needs of a region, will prove invaluable for Far North Queensland during future monsoon seasons,” she said.
