The Sunshine Coast’s main harbour is set to be reviewed, with the state government to launch a formal master planning process to shape its long-term future.
The Mooloolaba State Boat Harbour is among eight state-owned harbours identified for fast-tracked planning as part of a $13.2 million initiative to revitalise key maritime infrastructure and support coastal jobs, tourism and industry.
The investigation area will include the harbour and its troublesome entrance at the Mooloolah River mouth, which has long required regular dredging to remain navigable.
A Department of Transport and Main Roads spokesperson said the harbour was a “key strategic asset and hub of activity for the local economy”.
“The master plan will provide a shared long-term vision and strategic framework to guide development and decision-making over time, to ensure the harbour continues to develop, renew and meet the needs of its stakeholders into the future,” they said.
“The master planning process will consider opportunities and constraints within the harbour and identify any important issues to address.”
The plan will be developed through a process that includes technical assessments and engagement. Maritime Safety Queensland, Sunshine Coast Council and harbour tenants will be among those involved.
“Opportunities for public infrastructure upgrades and improvements will be identified through the planning process,” the spokesperson said.
But it’s not yet known when the master planning will start.
“Further details will follow in due course, including how stakeholders and the community can get involved,” they said.
The project will include the Mooloolah River mouth, which has posed problems for years.
It is susceptible to shoaling, can be dangerous and requires regular dredging at high cost.
“The master planning process will consider opportunities and constraints within the harbour and identify any important issues to address, including consideration of the harbour entrance (Mooloolah River mouth),” the spokesperson said.
“Maritime Safety Queensland continues to refine its approach to maintaining safe navigable access to Mooloolaba State Boat Harbour in consultation with the Mooloolaba Stakeholder Reference Group.
“This has included the successful Western Channel Trial, which maintained a basin area west of the entrance.”
Mooloolaba Fisheries general manager Paul Schenk recently told Sunshine Coast News maintaining the harbour entrance was crucial.
“It’s used regularly by dozens of commercial boats and many smaller commercial boats. If you look at the agrifood business, seafood is worth a lot of money,” he said.
The TMR spokesperson detailed why the harbour is important.
“(It) is a vital maritime asset offering safe, all-tide deep-water access for recreational and commercial vessels,” they said.
“It supports sustainable boating activities, maritime-related community functions, government services and tourism, while balancing its role as a working harbour with public access and recreation.
“This makes it a key destination with both local and regional significance.”
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Member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson also stated the significance of the area.
“Mooloolaba Harbour and the Mooloolaba Spit, which hosts most of its related industries, is a vital part of our local economy, as well as the centre of recreational boating and government maritime services,” she said.
“This is one of the most loved parts of the Sunshine Coast and that’s why getting the master plan right is so important, with consultation which recognises all stakeholders and the environment.”
She said the area deserved “proper stewardship” and the support of “good planning”.
“So future generations can also love, protect and enjoy using this beautiful area as well as benefiting from the jobs it supports,” she said.
