Posted on February 11, 2026
After sustained community advocacy, long-awaited channel deepening works in Pumicestone Passage are about to begin as part of the Bribie Island Emergency Works.
Dune renourishment along Bribie Island (between Breakthroughs #1 and #3) resumed on 3 January, and the next critical phase — dredging and deepening the channel at the northern end of the Passage — is now imminent.
What’s happening
• The dredger Arnhem will be relocated to the channel linking northern Pumicestone Passage with Breakthrough #1
• Dredging will focus on deepening the channel to restore safer navigation and improve water flow
Important access notice
• Relocation works start around 10:00am on Monday 9 February
• The tidal entrance will be closed for up to 6 hours during this time
• Coast Guard vessels will be stationed on both sides of the closure
• Maritime Safety Queensland has issued a Notice to Mariners
What this means over the next 8 weeks
• Channel deepening is expected to take approximately eight weeks
• Access between the north and south of the Passage will be limited at times due to the dredger’s location
• Please refer to the map attached for key work areas
Why this matters
These works will:
• Allow Caloundra Coast Guard to return to their Bulcock Beach base
• Improve maritime emergency response and rescues
• Enhance water circulation, water quality and navigational safety at the northern end of the Passage
For everyone’s safety, please:
• Observe speed restrictions
• Stay clear of dredging exclusion zones
• Do not enter reclaimed or active work areas on Bribie Island
• Be alert — conditions at the tidal entrance are changing regularly
Map attached shows emergency works priorities and current dredging locations.
The Pumicestone Passage Catchment Management Body (PPCMB) thanks the community for continuing to stay informed, respectful and safety-focused while these essential works are carried out — and for standing together to ensure action was taken to protect this vital waterway.
