Image: Premier Chris Minns (right) with Transport Minister Jo Haylen and Deputy Secretary of the Sydney Branch of the Maritime Union of Australia, Paul Garrett. Image: Paul Garrett/Facebook
By BATUHAN HERKOL
The renowned Queenscliff ferry is set for an iconic return to Sydney Harbour this summer after undergoing upgrades and important restoration work by expert shipbuilders, plumbers, and navel engineers.
Following a plan to retire the Freshwater ferries put in place by the previous Liberal National government, the new Minns Government is set on delivering its election promise to return as many of these vessels as possible to weekday and weekend services on the F1 Manly to Circular Quay route.
The refurbishment is set to include more than 650 square metres of new ceiling panels, every interior seat re-covered, more than 4,000 litres of paint, and more than 750 square metres of new flooring. However, according to A/Chief Operations Officer, Mark Hutchings, “it isn’t just new seats and fresh paint but a major upgrade to the engines and machinery of the vessel.”
NSW Premier, Chris Minns explained that the plan to retire the Freshwater ferries was a “reckless” decision made by the previous government and that they are “reversing their decision and returning the iconic Freshwaters to Sydney Harbour.”
Operational Issues
The second-generation Emerald-class ferries, ordered by the former government, have been plagued by operational issues, including cracked hulls and being unable to dock at low tide. No comment has been made yet as to what will happen to these Emerald-class ferries.
The 40 year old beloved Queenscliff ferry is currently docked at Cockatoo Island undergoing its refurbishments. NSW Minister for Transport, Jo Haylen elaborated:
“We know the Australian-made Freshwaters are steeped in NSW history and we are doing all we can to ensure they remain part of our iconic harbour scenery.”
With an engine room “bigger than a basketball court” and engine 32 times more powerful than an average car, the Queenscliff promises to be bigger and better than before. Along with a refreshed passenger area, the ferry will also improve the experience for customers with a disability.
An exact date is not in place for their return as the final works are subject to the Australian Navy’s maintenance schedule. However, Mark Hutchings mentioned that they are aware “the ferries are a popular choice for commuters during the hotter months and it is great that the Queenscliff will be back on the harbour this summer.”
