Raptis Investments has proposed plans for a significant new commercial marina at Morningside, known as Colmslie Wharves. The project aims to revitalise Brisbane’s marine tourism and inject over $100 million into the local economy each year.
Project Details and Location
The proposed Colmslie Wharves marina will be developed alongside the existing Raptis Seafoods facility on Colmslie Road in Brisbane’s inner east. Raptis Investments, the seafood company’s property division, has lodged a development application with Brisbane City Council. Plans include 51 berths designed for commercial vessels up to 35 metres long.
The facility will also feature on-water fuelling points, wastewater management systems, car parking, and amenities for staff. Its location, 9km from the CBD, is convenient for supplying vessels, particularly during weekends and outside standard business hours.
Economic and Tourism Impact
The project is forecast to be a major driver for the local economy, contributing more than $100 million annually. It is also expected to attract nearly 110,000 additional visitors to Brisbane each year and support the creation of 337 ongoing jobs in the tourism sector.
Supporters believe the marina will stimulate new tourism experiences focused on the Brisbane River, Moreton Bay, and the Bay Islands, especially as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympic Games. The Queensland Government has shown its support with a $4 million grant from its Growing Tourism Fund, recognising the project’s alignment with tourism, economic, and employment goals.
Addressing an Industry Need
Raptis Investments CEO Tim Beirne stated that Colmslie Wharves aims to fill a gap in Brisbane’s marine tourism infrastructure by offering a secure, long-term base for commercial tour operators. He noted that Brisbane lags behind other Australian capitals in river tourism participation. The development is a solution to the severe shortage of suitable marina berths that commercial operators have faced since 2023.
This shortage arose following the removal of commercial vessels from Dockside Marina at Kangaroo Point and the closure of facilities at Eagle Street Pier, forcing many operators into temporary, less suitable arrangements. Mr Beirne added that the marina design prioritises environmental responsibility to minimise impact on the river and aims to reduce issues associated with unauthorised mooring.
Industry Support and Timeline
Local tourism operators have expressed enthusiasm for the project. Barrie Coonan, owner of Brisvegas Cruises, highlighted the lack of long-term berthing solutions over his 30 years in the industry.
He believes the Raptis proposal offers much-needed certainty in a suitable location away from residential areas, which is crucial for supporting the growth of Brisbane as a true ‘River City’. If the project receives approval from Council, construction is expected to commence promptly. The developers anticipate the first vessels could begin using the new Colmslie Wharves facility in 2026.
Published Date 17-April-2025
