General News
26 April, 2026
‘Make popular jetty better’
MISSION BEACH recreational fishing families have turned out to have a fun afternoon of competition and, at the same time, support council’s upkeep of the popular Perry Harvey Jetty.
Supported by local small businesses with donations of a variety of prizes, the event attracted 63 participants.
The Mission Beach Boating Association (MBBA) organised the gathering to kick off its 2026-27 membership drive, hailing the day as an “absolute success”.
Vice-president Paul Howell said the MBBA committee and members “couldn’t be prouder of the community for coming together at short notice.”
“It was a show of strength and support for the re-instatement of the stairs and platforms and ongoing maintenance of the Perry Harvey Jetty,” Mr Howell told The Observer.
“The 63 sign-ons and many more supporters enjoyed a free afternoon of fun and treats as well as awareness and education,” he said.
“It was all smiles from every one that signed up for the 12 years of age and under fishing competition.
“Local businesses were quick to jump on board in a show of support with a prize pool exceeding $850.”
Cassowary Coast Regional Council, which owns the jetty, started work last week to remove the structure’s south facing stairs and landings, which in calmer weather, had been used for public boat access as well as to regularly fish off.
The stairs were closed off some weeks prior, after being deemed unsafe due to corrosion.
Council is yet to confirm if a new set of stairs and landings will be included in its next financial year budget.
In earlier social media posts, the MBBA had made it clear that it was keen for council to re-install stairs, despite costings having yet to be done and a council view that the stairs and platforms were a “low priority”.
“The MBBA will meet to discuss further action to reinstate the much-loved feature,” one post said.
But after the success of the fishing comp afternoon, Mr Howell told the newspaper: “While it was sad to know the stairs and platform would be removed for maintenance, community action was a clear indicator of expectation.
“While some suggested this event should happen every school holidays, others would appreciate more shade and improved parking,” he said.
“The MBBA thanks everyone involved and will table ongoing events at our next general meeting on 5 May.”
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