IN WHAT is believed to be a Queensland first, Rivergate Marina at Murarrie has built a cleaning vessel to clear debris from the Brisbane River.
Spokeswoman Clare Green said that besides polluting the river, debris could damage hulls of vessels moored at the marina, be hazardous to vessels cruising the river and get caught in intakes.

General manager Steve Fisher said after an extensive search for a suitable work boat, the marina built the Rivergate Clean Marina Vessel.

"More than four months was spent developing, perfecting and constructing the new Rivergate Clean Marina Vessel to not only collect debris from the Brisbane River, but also to act as a sturdy support vessel to the marina,’’ he said.
The six-metre vessel’s bow features a hydraulic-powered conveyor belt which, when lowered into the water, collects rubbish and debris before emptying it into a removable basket for easy disposal.

It has proven to be effective in clearing the waterway of debris after rain.

It is powered by a 60 hpw high-thrust four-stroke Yahama outboard engine, one of the cleanest and most efficient available.

"As a certified clean marina, Rivergate takes its obligation to the environment very seriously,’’ Mr Fisher said.

"Recently, the facility received 100 per cent in an audit by the Marina Industries Association of Australia and we will continue to strive for environmental excellence.’’

For more information, contact Clare Green on 39071600.