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New passenger terminal for Penneshaw

24 July 2011

A new $3.8 million passenger terminal will be constructed at Penneshaw, providing visitors arriving by Sealink ferry with a modern gateway to the picturesque Kangaroo Island.

Minister for Regional Development Gail Gago today announced the State Government has contributed $1.2 million towards the new terminal, which will be located adjacent to the wharf at Penneshaw.

“The funding, which has been awarded through the Regional Development Infrastructure Fund (RDIF), will help Sealink to meet the costs associated with the terminal building, including covered walkways,” the Minister said.

Ms Gago said the new terminal will feature a visitor information centre, café and passenger lounge.

“Kangaroo Island is a world-renowned tourist destination and this project has the potential to further increase tourist numbers to this truly unique holiday destination,” the Minister said.

“Tourism is of great importance to the community here, and this new terminal will help deliver the quality of service necessary to keep attracting visitors back to the Island.”

Sealink Managing Director Jeff Ellison said the new passenger terminal would not have been possible without the State Government’s support.

"We built the Cape Jervis terminal in 2004 and we've been planning the Penneshaw terminal for quite a long time," Mr Ellison said.

"The modern new terminal will provide a gateway to Kangaroo Island and create a vibrant sense of arrival."

Mr Ellison said the two-story building will provide direct access to the ferry via a covered air bridge.

"The new building will also feature a coach shelter for passengers arriving to go on coach tours of Kangaroo Island.

"And rather than just one customer service assistant available when passengers arrive, we will have five or six ready to welcome visitors to the Island and help with any queries."

Construction of the new terminal is expected to begin by December and be in operation by June next year.