Port Hinchinbrook Dredging Moves Closer As Contractor Process Advances

Member for Hinchinbrook, Wayde Chiesa MP at Port Hinchinbrook. Photo supplied

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Plans to revitalise Port Hinchinbrook are continuing to gather momentum, with the search for a contractor to undertake major dredging works now moving into its next stage.

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The latest milestone follows the closure of market sounding and early market engagement on 17th July, with Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) receiving responses from multiple suitably qualified dredging contractors and local suppliers.

EDQ has now progressed to an Early Contractor Involvement tender process, with bids due to close on 28^th August.

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Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the progress was another important step towards restoring activity at the long-troubled Cardwell precinct.

“Getting Port Hinchinbrook moving again was a commitment I made to this community, and it’s good to see us reaching another important step,” Mr Chiesa said.

“We now have multiple suitably qualified contractors expressing interest in the dredging work and are moving into the next stage of the process.

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“There is still work to be done before dredging can begin, but these are the steps that need to happen to get us there and I’ll continue to keep the community updated as the project progresses.”

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The proposed dredging is a key component of the broader Port Hinchinbrook revitalisation project, which aims to restore navigability throughout the marina and surrounding waterways and create greater opportunities for marine activity, tourismand future investment.

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Earlier planning for the precinct identified the reinstatement of waterways, the Stony Creek canal and access channels as important outcomes, with restored access expected to support marine rescue operations, recreational users and tourism operators.

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The broader project also includes safety upgrades to existing marina buildings and offices, as well as environmental management measures addressing long-standing issues including siltation and sediment management.

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Initial environmental and geotechnical investigations have now commenced and will help inform the civil engineering methodology for works on Lot 170.

EDQ has also met with the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation to discuss environmental approval requirements and will continue working with the department throughout the approval process.

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Discussions are continuing with Cassowary Coast Regional Council to coordinate works and approvals as the project progresses.

The Port Hinchinbrook precinct covers approximately 140 hectares and was declared a Provisional Priority Development Area in November 2025, providing a framework for future development across the site.

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The revitalisation project is intended to address long-standing infrastructure and environmental issues while helping unlock future economic opportunities for Cardwell and the wider Hinchinbrook region.

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While dredging is yet to commence, the current tender process marks a significant step towards securing the contractor needed to deliver the works.

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Mr Chiesa said further updates would be provided as the project moves through the necessary procurement, environmental and approval processes.