We have previously highlighted some of the world’s best river and harbour cities when outlining the opportunity that Colmslie Wharves presents.
But what are the common elements that Brisbane can learn from as we shape our own marine tourism future?
Behind every thriving river, harbour or bay experience is a connected ecosystem of infrastructure, access, activation and investment that allows operators and visitors to engage with the waterways.
While each city is unique, the common ingredients are quite consistent, namely:
- Public access points and river activation
- Strong connectivity between waterfront destinations
- Long-term commercial berthing infrastructure
- Reliable servicing and provisioning facilities
- Support for both tourism and transport uses
- Confidence for operators to invest and innovate
Without these foundations, even the best waterways would struggle to reach their potential. Fortunately, Brisbane is now beginning to move in this direction.
Brisbane City Council’s recent initiative to open up river hubs, pontoons and jetties for tourism activation is a major step forward, creating new opportunities for operators to deliver experiences on the water.
At the same time, major waterfront precincts such as Northshore Hamilton, Howard Smith Wharves and Queen’s Wharf are gradually transforming the city’s relationship with the river.
For many years, one of the biggest barriers to marine tourism growth in Brisbane has been the lack of long-term commercial berthing and servicing infrastructure.
While public pontoons and river hubs are ideal for activation and passenger access, operators still need somewhere secure to base vessels, refuel, provision and service their fleets.
This is where projects like Colmslie Wharves become critical.
Located at Morningside, just 9 km from the Brisbane CBD, Colmslie Wharves is being developed as a dedicated commercial marina supporting both Brisbane River and Moreton Bay operators.
According to Raptis Investments Head of Leasing Arthur Raptis, this type of supporting infrastructure is essential if Brisbane is serious about becoming a leading marine tourism destination.
“The world’s great marine tourism cities all have one thing in common – they have invested in the infrastructure behind the experiences,” he said.
“River activation in Brisbane is vital, but operators also need certainty and a secure operational base if they’re going to invest in new vessels and new ventures.
“Brisbane has all the ingredients to become a truly world-class River City and projects like Colmslie Wharves help bring those pieces together.”
As Brisbane moves toward 2032 and beyond, the role of the river can evolve from mainly being seen from bridges and boardwalks to being experienced directly through a wide range of tourism and recreation activities.
