NORTH Queensland Bulk Ports has appointed a project director and lead design consultant to its Bowen Wharf project.
Bowen Wharf supports towage operations for the Abbot Point coal export terminal.
NQBP replacing the 150-year-old wharf using $50 million in funding from the Queensland government, allocated in the 2023-24 budget.
Newly appointed project director Nawar Spear has previously been involved in developing, planning and delivering infrastructure programs and construction projects for federal and state government agencies.
And global consultancy firm Arup Australia will lead the design of the project.
NQBP CEO Brendan Webb said the appointments brought NQBP a step closer to launching community consultation on the wharf’s design.
“Since the funding announcement, we’ve undertaken a refurbishment study to understand the current condition of the Bowen Wharf and explore feasible refurbishment options,” Mr Webb said.
“Working closely with Bowen stakeholders, including the Bowen Chamber of Commerce, Save the Jetty Committee, and the Bowen Collinsville Enterprise, we’ve worked through the findings of the report.”
Mr Webb said NQBP and Arup Australia would now work together to engage with stakeholders, develop a draft concept, undertake community consultation and deliver a finalised concept design.
“We are committed to designing a Wharf that meets the needs of the community, ensuring Bowen has a vibrant and valued public asset for generations to come,” he said.
Arup Australia’s project director Shy Tay noted the wharf is also a valuable recreational facility for the community.
“The future structure will improve visitor amenity and access, provide new experiences, and acknowledge the diversity of stories associated with this place,” he said.
“We’re committed to engaging with the Bowen community to develop ideas that will leave a lasting legacy for the whole community.”
