Bowen Wharf Project
North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation Limited (NQBP) is replacing the Bowen Wharf with a modern, purpose-built public jetty that will deliver a valuable new community asset for locals and visitors alike.
The new public jetty, developed after extensive community consultation, will meet modern safety, accessibility and operational standards, providing a long-term facility that supports recreation, tourism and community use.
The $68 million project is made possible thanks to $50 million from Queensland Government and $18 million from NQBP.
Read more on our factsheet.
Development progress
A concept design for the new jetty was released in June 2024, following extensive community consultation.
Geotechnical investigations were completed in December 2025. NQBP is now undertaking environmental studies that are required for planning approvals as well as further refining the design to enable the construction of the facility.
The next step in the design process will be the development of a Reference Design, which translates the Concept Design into a more refined design that aligns with budget and operational requirements. Further work will then be undertaken to develop the Final Design for construction. A concept design for the new jetty was released in June 2024, following extensive community consultation.
At the same time, NQBP will undertake a competitive tender process for construction, with local procurement to be a key priority.
Commercial operations
Following an extensive options assessment on Abbot Point towage operations, NQBP plans to replace the commercial arm alongside the new public jetty in Bowen. Like the public jetty, the current infrastructure is reaching the end of its 150-year life.
The decision to focus on developing a business case for towage infrastructure at Bowen was made following a comprehensive review of economic, safety and stakeholder considerations.
This will ensure that towage operations continue to be based in Bowen, maintaining critical marine services that support safe port and maritime activities in the region, and local economic benefits.
New public jetty and commercial wharf
Construction of a commercial wharf for towage may result in additional benefits for the public jetty, such as a wider and higher causeway.
Construction of the new commercial wharf is subject to regulatory and funding approvals. Pending approvals, both Bowen Jetty and Abbot Point towage construction will be progressed in parallel.
The commercial wharf will have its own dedicated budget. No money from the public jetty will be used for this project.
Project background
In June 2023, the Queensland Government allocated $50 million for the replacement of North Queensland Bulk Ports’ Bowen Wharf as part of the 2023-24 Budget. The funding was made possible due to Queensland's coal royalties.
NQBP engaged skilled Queensland engineers for a refurbishment study and a specialist quantity surveying firm to provide cost estimates. For a detailed overview, you can access the Bowen Wharf Refurbishment Study Summary and the Bowen Wharf Refurbishment Study.
To support a community-led design, NQBP engaged the global sustainable development consultancy firm, Arup, to develop a draft concept, undertake stakeholder and community consultation, and deliver a finalised concept design.
Community engagement
In June 2024, Bowen locals had their say on two concept design options for the future Bowen Jetty as part of the Consult stage of the project. See the infographic below for a summary of the range of interactions and below for more about the engagement activities.
- Online survey
- Juru People engagements
- Community flyer
- Community pop-up information sessions
- Stakeholder engagements
Earlier, in March 2024, we had more than 750 interactions with people in all parts of the community including local residents, business operators, community groups, school students, elected representatives and tourism operators. This engagement was a key part of the Discover stage of the project and key themes identified in this feedback informed the concept designs. You can download the summary of the March 2024 engagement activities here: community engagement activities.
Feedback from both stages of the process has ensured the design of the Bowen Jetty is guided by what is important to locals and the big ideas the community has for the future.
Read more about the engagement activities.
Stay connected
For enquiries, please reach out to us via email bowenwharf@nqbp.com.au.
You can also sign up below to receive the latest updates on the Bowen Wharf Project straight to your inbox.
Timeline
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2026
Advanced engineering design, procurement, environmental and planning approvals.
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2027
Construction expected to start in 2027, depending on environment and government approvals, construction staging and procurement approach.
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2028
Completion of the public jetty is planned for late 2028, subject to planning and environmental approvals.