Little Lucinda to have a $1.2m makeover

THE Port of Townsville is spending $1.2m to repair the “little” Lucinda Jetty to extend the life of the popular fishing spot.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the contract had been awarded to Townsville engineering company Casa Projects and was expected to support 15 jobs over the next six months.

Mr Bailey said corrosive damage had been discovered near the top of a number of the 68 steel piles during a structural inspection last year.

Port of Townsville General Manager Infrastructure and Environment Marissa Wise said Lucinda was an important port as it boasted the longest service jetty in the southern hemisphere, stretching 5.6km for the export of raw sugar from the Ingham district.

Ms Wise said the so-called “little jetty” was 210m long and had become a mecca for recreational fishers, some of whom travel vast distances to fish there. Casa managing director Peter Casa said the contract came at a great time and was the perfect remedy to boost the economy.

“The other important element is that it is quite a technical job so it will help retain our company’s skill set,” Mr Casa said.

The works include the strengthening and corrosion-protection of the steel piles along the wharf stem and the service wharf. During construction, the jetty will need to be closed for a few hours at a time between July and November.

Some areas will be fenced off and the reconstruction is expected to be completed by the end of the calendar year.