Construction of Colmslie Wharves is complete, marking the start of a new era for Brisbane’s commercial marine industry as the first vessels begin taking up berths in the marina.
Developed by Raptis Investments, the new marina at Morningside provides 50 secure commercial berths for tourism, charter, transport and other marine operators servicing the Brisbane River and Moreton Bay.
Raptis Investments Director Arthur Raptis said completion was a very exciting milestone for a project created to address Brisbane’s long-standing shortage of suitable overnight berthing for commercial vessels.
“We set out to solve a very practical problem that had constrained Brisbane’s commercial marine industry for decades, and it is enormously satisfying to now see vessels arriving and the marina operating as intended,” he said.
“Completing the infrastructure is a major milestone, but the most exciting chapter starts now. Colmslie Wharves will become a working base for the operators, vessels and crews that bring the Brisbane River and Moreton Bay to life.”
Located approximately nine kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, Colmslie Wharves offers berths for vessels ranging from 12 to 50 metres, supported by power and water connections, waste management, crew amenities, car parking and access for provisioning, servicing and maintenance.
Its location provides convenient access to the city’s major river destinations, while also positioning operators for direct access to Moreton Bay and its islands.
Arthur said the commercial marine hub would provide existing operators with greater security and efficiency while creating opportunities for new marine tourism and transport ventures.
“Operators can now base their vessels at a secure, purpose-built facility where crews can prepare, provision and service them in one location,” he said.
“Just as importantly, Colmslie Wharves gives people with an idea for a new river cruise, charter, island transfer or other marine experience a place from which to bring that idea to life.
“Brisbane has an extraordinary river and Moreton Bay on its doorstep. We want this marina to give private operators the confidence to invest in new vessels, new experiences and new jobs as the city builds towards 2032 and beyond.”
Colmslie Wharves was delivered by Raptis Investments with $4 million in support from the Queensland Government’s Growing Future Tourism program.
Arthur acknowledged the contribution of the project team, government agencies, industry representatives and commercial vessel operators who helped guide the marina’s design and delivery.
“This has been a genuinely collaborative project shaped by the people who understand what commercial operators need to work safely and efficiently,” he said.
Completion of the marina will be formally celebrated at an official opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony planned for 2 December.
Commercial marine operators interested in securing a berth or launching a new venture can register their interest at colmsliewharves.com.au/register.
