It will take at least another two more weeks to have the Dantree Ferry passenger service back up and running, according to Douglas Shire Council.

The council has been putting together a request with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority for a permit to transport goods on the ferry for essential works to fix the northern landing and “installing the new anchor point on the northern bank”.

This temporary fix will also allow delivery of supplies of food and fuel, and will need to be done before passengers can be permitted to use the ferry.

Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said crews had been working hard to return the ferry to service as quickly and safely as possible.

“One of our immediate priorities is removing hazards along the ferry’s path and resupplying the community,” Mayor Scomazzon said.

“We believe the pontoon gangway is lying to the north of the ferry, along with several large submerged trees. 

“A long arm excavator will be deployed on the ferry to safely remove these obstacles once permitted.”

Council staff have assessed the ferry’s damage and are now ordering replacement parts, she said.

“We are doing everything in our power to move through each step as quickly and safely as possible.”

Some businesses in the region have been experiencing shortages, including the Daintree Rainforest Village running out of fuel across past days.