TWO steel panels have been installed at the Coochiemudlo Island ferry terminal – at a cost of $5500 – to stop thrill-seekers from climbing onto the roof.
One panel sits above the terminal’s roofline, the other along a handrail on the gangway, complete with signs warning against jumping, diving or unauthorised access.
A Redland City Council spokesperson confirmed the works were carried out on December 11.
For two pieces of steel, some islanders such as Geoff Buchus wondered if the price tag came with a side of gold-plated bolts.
“That certainly sounds extortionate considering that the residents are probably paying for it out of their rates,” he said.
“And it probably won’t stop them.”
Councillor Lance Hewlett said the measures were part of ongoing efforts to prevent people climbing onto the roof and jumping into the water.
“Hopefully this will assist with preventing serious injury, reduce risks to ferry operators and commuters and reduce costly damage to infrastructure,” Cr Hewlett said.
Jetty jumping at Coochiemudlo has been a persistent problem for years, particularly during summer, with people leaping from the terminal and nearby structures into Moreton Bay.
Risks include shallow water, strong tidal movements, ferry traffic and submerged hazards, as well as the potential for catastrophic spinal injuries.
While some residents welcomed the measures, others criticised them.
Local resident Shannan Hughes said the deterrents would simply “make it more of a challenge” and accused Council of wasting money, arguing that people should take responsibility for their own actions.
“When I was jetty jumping back in the day, you made sure there was nothing underneath, watched the tides and didn’t interrupt ferries. It’s not that hard,” Mr Hughes said.
That view was quickly challenged by David Logan, who said the cost of safety measures was justified if it prevented even one serious injury.
“It’s hardly expensive if it stops one broken neck or back,” he said.
Others highlighted Council’s legal and financial exposure if someone was seriously injured.
Michael MacArthur said councils were often blamed and sued after accidents, driving up insurance costs.
Several commenters noted signs alone would not stop the behaviour.
Tony Forbes said jetty jumping had “been happening for generations,” while Tom Schermer argued that trying to stop teenagers seeking risk was unlikely to succeed without providing alternatives.
There was also concern the behaviour had not been stopped at all.
Allan Hedges reported people jumping from the roof, saying the latest works “haven’t stopped them”.
