Amity Trader ferry service hangs on despite devastation wrought by coronavirus in Moreton Bay

A ferry service in Moreton Bay has had to adapt to stormy seas as COVID-19 puts unprecedented pressure on islanders and businesses alike.

A LOCAL shipping company “devastated” by coronavirus restrictions is determined to weather the storm.

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The Amity Trader, which normally services Coochiemudlo Island from Victoria Point throughout the day, has had to cut its services in half.

Company director Steve Wallace reported a 52 per cent loss in business as the country comes to a near standstill due to COVID-19.

The Amity Trader barge servicing Moreton Bay between Coochiemudlo Island and Victoria Point. Picture: Amity Trader

“It is devastating, there is no two ways about it but we are committed to making the best of a tough situation,” Mr Wallace said.

“But we are taking it in our stride dealing with it on a day-to-day basis.

“Our main aim was to keep services going, save money where we can and keep staff employed and we have done that.”

Mr Wallace said the Amity Trader was dependent on its individual ticket sales but was buoyed by its work on large civil projects and a dependable barge service.

“At the moment our barge is propping up the ferry business,” he said.

“The residents are still covered as far as movements go, it is just that there is only one vessel running backwards and forwards to Coochiemudlo where usually there is a ferry and barge running backwards and forwards all day but that wasn’t sustainable for us.”

Amity Trader crew member Jairyn Buckney shares a cuppa with a customer before coronavirus restrictions. Picture: Amity Trader

The company’s ferry now runs from 5-9am and 5-10pm with the barge operating from 9am-5pm weekly.

The longtime marine operator had high paise for his crews and the public in general.

“The crew has been amazing, we have been doing a hell of a lot of cleaning and sanitising of the vessels and the jetties,” Mr Wallace said.

“So the crew has had to dig in and do a lot more work.

“And I have been pleasantly surprised how everyone has stepped up to the plate including the public.

“Sometimes you get a lot of wingers but it seems everyone has realised we are in the same boat, so to speak, and we’ve got to get through this.”

Amity Trader ferry at Coochiemudlo Island. Picture: Amity Trader

Founded in 2008 the company is fortunate to be “in good health” for the time being.

Mr Wallace said should current restrictions persist for six months they would have to consider further reductions in service for an area he has come to appreciate.

“Coochie has a good little community spirit,” he said.

“They are sensible and they care about each other and they do a good job of creating a safe environment.”

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Mr Wallace said islanders were encouraged to see visitors steer clear during this fraught time and looked forward to better days.