Ferry McFerryface: Families will be able to step on-board Sydney’s most controversial ferry tomorrow

FAMILIES can visit Sydney’s most talked about ferry tomorrow and take photos with Santa under its controversial Ferry McFerryface moniker. The new ferry had been the subject of a war of words betweens a Minister and ferry workers.

FAMILIES can visit Sydney’s most talked about ferry tomorrow and take photos with Santa under its controversial Ferry McFerryface moniker.

The new ferry has been the subject of a war of words between Transport Minister Andrew Constance and ferry workers because of its unusual name.

The ferry was the last of a new fleet of six Emerald class ferries brought into service, with the maritime union vowing to boycott the vessel because of the “stupid” name.

The other five ferries in the fleet built in Tasmanian shipyards were named after prominent Australians.

All aboard: Families will be able to see the controversial ferry for the first time since the name was announced. Pictured are Ollie, 4 and Charlie, 5. Picture: Simon Bullard

This one will be branded Ferry McFerryface but will retain its provisional working name of Emerald 6 for maritime purposes.

Mr Constance said the ferry would be docked at the Man O’ War steps wharf near the Opera House for a special family fun day before going into service next week.

Gold-coin donations will raise money for charities such as Sydney Children’s Hospital and Ronald McDonald House.

“We always said this one was for the kids,” Mr Constance said. “I am pleased we’ve been able to make sure that kids and families across Sydney get to be the first on board this Sunday.”

MORE: STAFF THREATEN TO BOYCOTT WORK OVER FERRY NAME

MORE: INTRODUCING SYDNEY’S NEW FERRY MCFERRYFACE

The new ferry’s name has left the government and public divided. Picture: Simon Bullard

It will be the first time the public can walk onto the ferry, which will have face painting and Santa available for photographs between 10am and noon.

Maritime Union of Australia Sydney branch assistant secretary Paul Garrett said the union still preferred the name Ian Kiernan, the Clean Up Australia founder whose name was initially proposed.

“The MUA is glad that Minister Constance has abandoned the idea of permanently naming the vessel Ferry McFerryface,” Mr Garrett said.

“We’ve spoken directly to Minister Constance and understand that the vessel will remain named Emerald 6 over the summer school holiday period and potentially beyond.

“But we know the people chose Ian Kiernan after the Australian of the Year in a public vote. “The other ferries in service are Victor Chang, Fred Hollows, Catherine Hamlin, Pemulwuy and Bungaree.