Tumby Bay Jetty Update
Progress Association Contributes $75,000 Towards Council’s Interim Solution
The Tumby Bay Progress Association has contributed $75,000 to the District Council of Tumby Bay’s interim solution to reopening the Tumby Bay jetty.
“This is an opportunity for the Progress Association to demonstrate to the State Government that the Tumby Bay community cares for our Jetty and is willing to put money towards Council’s interim solution that will see it open again,” said Progress Association President, Mr. Dion LeBrun.
“We understand that this is not a long-term solution, but this is a chance to have our jetty accessible to our community and visitors, whilst a long-term solution is found” explained Mr LeBrun.
Tumby Bay mayor Geoff Churchett thanked the Progress for its support and commitment to a solution.
“This is a fantastic gesture that reflects our community spirit and we are very grateful for it,” said Mr. Geoff Churchett.
“The Tumby Bay Progress Association is an integral part of our community and the leadership they are showing here is testament to the people involved and the importance of our Jetty to our residents and visitors” added Mr. Churchett.
Load testing of the jetty was successfully undertaken by marine contractors Maritime Constructions in early April. The supervising engineer from Wallbridge Gilbert Aztec (WGA) has now approved moving to the next stage of proposed works, which will include driving approximately 18 new piles and installing an expected 6 new cross heads and associated bearer supports.
Materials procurement for this work has begun and it is currently anticipated that works will be completed in May. While there are still risks in the delivery of this project that could impact on the final outcome, Council is optimistic that once these works have been completed the jetty will reopen for public access.
“This is an amazing partnership between the community and Council. The ability to undertake this load testing and any subsequent works has been made possible through the generous contribution of Maritime Constructions which is providing plant, equipment and labour at no cost to Council whilst WGA has offered a significant reduction in their professional services fees. The contribution from the Progress Association adds significant value to this initiative, explained Mr. Churchett.
“Progress will also be developing a platform to allow the community and local businesses to financially contribute towards the interim repair works to our jetty.’ said Mr LeBrun.
“We know that there are many in the community who actively want to contribute to their beloved jetty, and Progress is going to provide the means to demonstrate this through active fundraising,” added Mr LeBrun.
Council remains committed to finding a solution that will see Tumby Bay with a fit-for-purpose jetty again, at the lowest possible cost, and in the most sustainable manner possible.
For further information on the jetty updates go to www.tumbybay.sa.gov.au/community/recreation-and-tourism/jetties and for jetty condition inspection reports go to www.tumbybay.sa.gov.au/documents/jettyreports.