Bruny Islanders to convey their ferry fears to the State Government

ISLAND residents and shack owners concerned about a new ferry service will form a committee to bring the community’s concerns to the State Government.

One of the two proposed new Bruny Island ferries. Picture: SEALINK

BRUNY residents and shack owners concerned about a new ferry service to and from the island will form a committee to bring the community’s concerns to the State Government.

Between 150 and 200 people went to a community meeting yesterday at the Barnes Bay CWA Hall to share concerns about the State Government’s decision to award SeaLink a 10-year contract to operate the island’s ferry service.

Franklin Labor MHA David O’Byrne said the Bruny Island community was unhappy about a lack of consultation over the new service and proposed booking system.

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At the meeting it was decided a community committee be formed to liaise with the State Government.

“There’s a lot more work that needs to be done and I think [the Government] needs to sit down with the community,” Mr O’Byrne said.

Government and SeaLink representatives attended the meeting. A Government spokesman said the contract would meet demand.

SeaLink is due to start operating the service in September.

The vehicle deck on one of the new Bruny Island ferries. Picture: SEALINK