Bright future for Bowen as designs for new Jetty unveiled

North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) CEO Brendan Webb said community input was integral to the two jetty concepts, with both designs highlighting the existing jetty’s history and heritage while also providing enhanced accessibility and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

“From the beginning of the Bowen Wharf Project, we put the community front and centre of our planning,” Mr Webb said.

“We could not have asked for more from the community when it comes to them sharing their passion, local knowledge and great ideas.

“More than 770 people have given their feedback through our first survey, workshops and pop-up sessions in March.”

Mr Webb said the design options for the future Bowen Jetty unveiled today seek to offer residents and tourists a captivating space to connect with the marine environment and enjoy leisure activities.

“Bowen is renowned for its natural beauty and stunning coastal environment and the jetty designs seek to capitalise on these assets.”

The jetty is envisaged as a versatile hub connecting with the Bowen foreshore, with recreational fishing activities, leisure strolls and picturesque views of Bowen’s scenic coastline on offer.

“We asked the community what they valued and wanted to see in the future Jetty, and we have heard them loud and clear,” Mr Webb said

Key features of the concept designs include:

• Ample shade and seating for relaxing and socialising
• Toilets and water bubblers
• Dedicated fishing areas equipped with modern amenities
• Accessibility provisions to ensure inclusivity for all members of the community
• Environmental consideration to preserve local ecosystems
• Integration of Juru people artwork and cultural elements to celebrate the region’s rich heritage.

“The jetty design options celebrate the history of the jetty by retaining key historic elements as non-structural features and include storytelling and education areas.”

The Bowen Wharf Project, made possible thanks to a $50 million commitment from the State Government, is a collaborative effort between local government, community stakeholders, and design professionals Arup.

“This project is about enhancing the liveability and attractiveness of Bowen,” Mr Webb said.

“Continued close engagement with the community will remain paramount to ensure that the final design aligns with the aspirations and needs of Bowen residents.”

Details about the design options and artist impressions are available on the project website and will be available at upcoming information sessions in Bowen.

“This will be the last opportunity for the community to have their say on the concept design by completing the online survey. So I encourage everyone to provide their feedback during June,” Mr Webb said.

“Your feedback will help our project team refine the final jetty concept design, which we’ll share later this year.”

Built in 1867 with repairs and reconstruction over the years, the Bowen Wharf structure is nearing its end of life.

“The State Government’s $50 million commitment to replace the jetty will provide the Bowen community with a sustainable structure boasting a 100-year design life,” Mr Webb said.

“We need to raise the deck height to cater for climate change, improve accessibility, add features and services, and provide emergency vehicle access, and by doing so the whole of the Bowen community will benefit from this new structure.”

During June, the project team will be in Bowen to talk with the local community. Come along to displays and chat with a team member:

• Bowen PCYC, Friday 14 June, 4pm to 6pm
• Centre Point Plaza Shopping Centre, Saturday 15 June, 9.30am to 11.30am
• Bowen Community Markets, Sunday 16 June, 7am to 12pm
• Bowen Show, Tuesday, 25 June

Register and have your say on the Bowen Jetty concept design options before Sunday 30 June 2024. To give feedback and for more information visit NQBP's website.

Images for download

Image 1: Concept design option 1 maintains a general alignment and length of the old jetty with a loop feature at the end that allows for a wide, sheltered seating and viewing space.
Image 2: Concept design option 2 offers a different user experience with a curved jetty alignment that ends with a wide, sheltered space.
Image 3: Project Director Nawar Spear and NQBP CEO Brendan Webb urge the Bowen community to have their say on the Bowen Jetty concept design options before 30 June.

North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation contact

Amanda Blines | Senior Advisor Brand and Communications
0439 703 330 | ablines@nqbp.com.au