Emergency Dredging Works Announced for Port Hinchinbrook’s One Mile Creek

Cassowary Coast Regional Council is set to commence emergency dredging works at Port Hinchinbrook’s One Mile Creek. Following the receipt of a Deed of Variation from the Department of Infrastructure in October 2024, we are moving forward with this crucial project to enhance our local waterway.

The dredging program has been awarded to Australasian Marine Associates, with preparation works beginning from November 2024. Initial activities will include management plans, surveys, sediment sampling, and site fencing at the Port Hinchinbrook boat ramp.

Physical dredging operations are scheduled to commence Monday 6 January 2025, pending weather, for a four-week period with approximately 990 tonnes of material to be removed.   Dredging works times will depend on tidal variations and carried out when appropriate.

During the dredging period a 100m exclusion zone around the dredging area is necessary for the safety of all water users and the stabilisation of the batter slopes and the seabed. The Port Hinchinbrook Boat Ramp will be closed during the physical dredging period. We encourage residents to utilise alternative boat ramp locations at Marine Parade, Meunga Creek, or Fishers Creek.

To manage the dredged material, dewatering bags will be placed in a fenced-off area in the Port Hinchinbrook Boat Ramp car park for approximately two months, where the material will be monitored and tested. We want to reassure the community, that environmental considerations are a priority, and we will be managing our obligations under the Environmental Protection Act 1994 to monitor and mitigate any potential impacts.

The current emergency dredging program is only a short-term solution for the community to improve recreational and emergency access. The issues of ongoing dredging of One Mile Creek, Port Hinchinbrook marina and on-shore facilities remain critical issues to be addressed for Cardwell and the Cassowary Coast region. Council, alongside the community, look forward to collaborating with Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto, Premier David Crisafulli, and his new team to continue pursuing sustainable, long-term outcomes for Port Hinchinbrook.

We encourage all residents to follow the Port Hinchinbrook Dredging YourSay page for updates regarding the project. Any changes to the work schedule will be communicated in advance, and you can subscribe for email notifications to stay informed.

The Port Hinchinbrook (One Mile Creek) dredging project is funded with $1.5 million from the Australian Government.