The trade to this port is now confined to the visit of a small steamer twice a week. The necessary beacons and lights are maintained by the Department.
JOHNSTONE RIVER.
Has, like mostly all the other ports, suffered from the effects of gales and floods. The amount of damage was, however, comparatively trifling, and confined to the blowing down of a few inexpensive beacons. The approach to the river has altered its direction, and the leading lights and beacons on Flying Fish Point have been moved to indicate the course in, which is now N. W. by W. 3/4 W., while formerly it was W. 3/4 N. The houses at the pilot station and the pilot cutter are in good order.
CAIRNS.
The new cutting into Cairns harbour was completed last year, giving a depth of 13 feet at low water, spring tides, and leading lights and beacons have been established to render the cutting easily navigable by night as well as by day. The dredged channel has stood remarkably well; only a slight silting up has been recently reported near the third pile. This spot, however—upon inquiry—appears never to have been dredged. A new staff for the outer leading light has been erected, and the buoys and beacons are fully maintained. The largest coasting steamers now enter and leave the port in safety. The beacons in the Barron and Mulgrave Rivers are attended to by the staff at Cairns, and are at present in their proper positions.
My predecessor suggested that a lightship should be placed near the Fairway Buoy to mark the entrance to the dredged cutting, and as a guide for vessels visiting the port, as well as to exhibit the necessary tidal signals. A light-vessel or—what would be cheaper—a small fixed pile-light on the Trotter-Lindberg principle—would certainly be a great advantage. The pilot boat, dwelling-houses, boatshed, and all property of the Department is well looked after.