Survey launched to gauge public views on dogs on ferries

A survey has been launched to see what the public thinks about pets on Brisbane ferries, with a trial likely by the end of the year if the response is positive.

New Farm resident Annie Boxall with her dog Banjo are excited at the idea of travelling on the city ferries and CityCats. (AAP Image/Richard Walker)

BRISBANE may allow a trial of dogs on ferries before the end of the year if a survey launched today supports the move.

The TransLink customer survey is asking how the trial to allow dogs on ferries and CityCats should run and follows pressure from pet owners to allow dogs on ferries in keeping with trends across Australia and internationally.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said commuters would “undoubtedly” have different views on the trial.

“Which is why I encourage anyone who catches a ferry or City Cat and has an interest in this to share their views,” Mr Bailey said.

“We want to get the right balance between customer comfort and safety while making sure there is space for dogs on ferries too.”

“TransLink will gather feedback through September with a view to starting the trial before the end of this year.”

“There are many places around the world that allow dogs on public transport so I think now is the right time for a trial on ferries to see what people think about it.”

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New Farm resident Annie Boxall and her dog Banjo, Saturday, January 19, 2019 (AAP Image/Richard Walker)

New Farm resident Annie Boxall who started a petition to Brisbane City Council earlier said “the change would be extremely exciting if it does get the green light”.

“It is just so wonderful Brisbane (it’s legislators, transport operators and community) are growing and adapting to modern world-class standards particularly in terms of inner-city lifestyle which - in many instances - includes pets,” Ms Boxall said.

She said would “fully embrace the opportunity”.

“Specifically, it will now mean we can take my dog to visit my Mum (going on 80) who lives in the city without having to pay the exorbitant parking fees on a weekday (between $40-60 sometimes!),” Ms Boxall said.

“The joy Banjo (her dog) brings to my Mum (and so many other strangers out and about) is blissful.”

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Dogs may soon be allowed to travel on Brisbane ferries and CityCats. Pic Jono Searle.

Mr Bailey said the five-minute customer survey questions included what size of pet dog should be allowed on ferries and how many should be on-board at one time.

As part of the trial, pet dogs will be allowed on both ferries and City Cats on the condition:

• They only travel during off-peak times (pet dogs will not be permitted between 6am and 8:30am and 3:30pm – 7pm Monday to Friday)
• Be in a carrier, or on a lead and wearing a muzzle
• Remain under the control of their handler at all times.

Mr Bailey said TransLink would work closely with Brisbane City Council and the delivery partner who operate the ferries.

He said commuters could fill in the Pets on public transport survey until 30 September 2019.

“TransLink will then consider feedback from customers and stakeholders to finalise the conditions of the trial, including the rules for carrying pet dogs,” Mr Bailey said.