The Transport Minister spends a lot of time on social media platforms such as Twitter and not a lot of time on his job. That’s a shame as people’s lives depend on him doing his job.
Mooloolaba Harbour entrance has started silting again after bad weather a few weeks ago and the timeframe for mapping out the process for the permanent fix is still sitting on the Minister’s desk.
Talking with Coast Guard, they advise that the sand shoals in the bay to the west of the harbour mouth need dredging as well as the direct channel, if there is to be safer all-weather access, particularly for boats under tow.
Together with Coast Guard I met with Maritime Safety Queensland and this issue was also put forward about the need for a wider dredging program outside of the channel. We are awaiting a response to this request as well as the timing of the reference panel and timeline and plan for consultation about the more permanent fix.
I have also asked for confirmation of the funding allocated for undertaking the consultation and the implementation of a more permanent solution and in the meantime for a more timely and aggressive dredging program to ensure that the harbour entry is safe and reliable.
As previously stated, the current Queensland and Roads Investment Program (QTRIP) for 2022-23 has only $400,000 allocated for dredging and bed levelling, nothing allocated for the permanent solution which is required for maritime safety as well as the environment.
I will not stop until we have the right solution and the right solution actioned.
Any issues that you are continuing to have please complete my Complaint Form HERE
