General News
12 November, 2025
New era for Port
A LONG-awaited revitalisation of Port Hinchinbrook is set to proceed, with the Queensland Government announcing the precinct will become the state’s first Provisional Priority Development Area.
The declaration is designed to unlock redevelopment of the marina and surrounding lands, resolve long-running legal issues and improve access for recreational and emergency vessels. The plan includes reinstating all-tide access to the marina through removal of dredging spoil and restoring a clear access channel for the local Coast Guard.
Selected land parcels within the 140ha area will be acquired to allow the redevelopment to proceed, though the state government has confirmed private residential properties will not be affected. Economic Development Queensland will lead the project in partnership with Cassowary Coast Regional Council, industry and the community.
The formal establishment of the Priority Development Area is expected in January 2026, with dredging works proposed to begin in the second half of that year.
Premier David Crisafulli said the plan marked a “new chapter” for the community.
“Port Hinchinbrook has been waiting a long time for certainty and this is the first step in unlocking its tourism and economic potential,” he said. “This historic declaration is the first step towards unlocking the Port’s economic and tourism potential and finally fixing the issues that have held this community back for a decade.”
Residents can provide feedback on the draft Provisional Land Use Plan (PLUP) from 11 November - 9 December before formalisation of the PPDA in January 2026 to enable infrastructure works to commence, with dredging set to begin in the second half of 2026.
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said the people of Port Hinchinbrook deserved a fast-tracked solution to a complex issue – one that had remained unresolved for far too long
Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Teresa Millwood said “this has been a long-time process and the council looks forward to working together with the Queensland Government to achieve the desired outcomes for the residents to restore Port Hinchinbrook.”
Katter’s Australian Party Leader and State Member for Traeger Robbie Katter said on Monday the Premier and Deputy Premier acknowledged the fight from the KAP’s Hinchinbrook member (Nick Dametto) over the last eight years, while announcing that Port Hinchinbrook would be placed under Queensland’s first Provisional Priority Area.
“This is yet again a fine example of how strong fighters, answerable to North Queenslanders, not Brisbane, can deliver real outcomes,” he said.
The PPDA will operate for a defined three-year period to achieve its objectives with a focus on transitioning the precinct to private sector-led development and long-term management.
Read More: Cardwell