Daintree Ferry Closure Leaves Far North Queensland Tourism in Turmoil Ahead of Easter
The upcoming Easter long weekend, typically a bustling period for tourism in Far North Queensland, is shrouded in uncertainty for both holidaymakers and local businesses. A critical access point, the Daintree Ferry, remains out of action, leaving a vital gateway to popular destinations like Cape Tribulation and the northern Daintree National Park severed.
The Daintree Ferry, a mere five-minute, $51 return journey, is the sole sealed road link to these iconic locations. Its closure for over three weeks, following flash flooding that ripped the vessel from its moorings on March 5, has effectively cut off access. This isolation is particularly acutely felt by already remote communities and the businesses that depend on them.
Economic Fallout for Local Operators
For business owners like Lawrence Mason, who operates Mason’s Tours, the impact has been devastating. He estimates daily losses of around $3,000 since the ferry’s displacement.
“Our main clients for our cafe during March have basically not been able to get to us, and so our cafe’s been closed,” Lawrence explained. “Our shop’s been trading because we supply essentials to people, but it’s been difficult to get those supplies. I’ve twice driven a 780 kilometre trip to go and get supplies.”
Lawrence, a lifelong resident of Cape Tribulation, highlighted that at least 20 other businesses in the area are facing similar operational shutdowns. “We’ve now been over 20 days without any access to our businesses, and still the State Government hasn’t announced any help,” he stated, expressing frustration.
He drew parallels to the aftermath of Cyclone Jasper, where businesses faced significant delays in receiving assistance. “I just find it really annoying that even after Cyclone Jasper we had to fight and fight and fight. We were three months without access then to get any help. The government’s quite happy to take the GST off me at the end of every three months. But when it comes to me needing a bit of help, it seems to take forever.”
Tourist Plans Disrupted and Uncertainties
Tourists eager to experience the natural beauty of the Daintree region are facing significant disruption to their holiday plans. Social media platforms are abuzz with travellers seeking information, with many having already booked accommodation and tours but lacking a definitive opening date for the ferry.
Reports from visitors indicate a mix of emotions, ranging from the need to “adjust” itineraries to feelings of confusion and nervousness about whether their eagerly anticipated trips will even proceed. The lack of clear communication regarding the ferry’s reopening is adding to the anxiety.
Essential Services and Daily Life Under Strain
The ferry’s closure has extended its impact beyond tourism, affecting the delivery of essential services and the daily routines of residents. For the past three weeks:
- Waste Management: Garbage collections have been significantly restricted.
- Fuel Supplies: Diesel, crucial for generators and vehicles, has had to be flown in by helicopter to communities north of the Daintree River.
- Mail Deliveries: Australia Post has adapted its services, with staff operating from the Lower Daintree boat ramp car park for three days a week, impacting the usual delivery schedules.
While passenger boats have been running for locals, the inability to transport vehicles has created a logistical nightmare for everyday life. Lawrence Mason shared his personal challenges, explaining that his children’s school bus can no longer cross the river. This necessitates a daily 72km round trip for him to drive his daughters to the river, where they then board a passenger boat to reach the other side.
“That takes a big slice out of the day, but the price of fuel, that’s an impact as well,” he noted, highlighting the current diesel price of $3.10 per litre as a significant additional burden.
Efforts Underway to Restore Ferry Operations
Douglas Shire Council is working around the clock to reinstate the Daintree Ferry service. Significant progress has been made with the installation of both the northern and southern anchor points to secure the vessel’s cable system in the past week.
Currently, the ferry is undergoing mandatory sea trials under a restricted Australian Maritime Safety Authority permit. This permit strictly limits operations to the transport of essential services only, and these trials are conducted intermittently between ongoing repair work and inspections.
The ferry cannot carry passengers until it officially reopens, and a firm date for this is yet to be announced. Lawrence Mason shared his cautious optimism, stating, “The council has indicated it will be [open by the long weekend], but they’re being very quiet about nominating a day. So, at this stage, we’re not 100 per cent sure it will be open.”
Douglas Shire Council has confirmed receiving a substantial volume of inquiries regarding public access via the ferry. They are reiterating to the community that no exceptions can be made under the current permit conditions, underscoring the priority of safety and essential services.
