20/9/2011 Better Ferries Call

In a bid to reduce traffic congestion and provide a better start to the day for eastern shore commuters, Hobart Deputy Lord Mayor Alderman Helen Burnet has called for a better network of ferries and water taxis.

Speaking from Hobart’s waterfront today, Lord Mayoral candidate Helen Burnet said, “There are a number of commuters who have got the bug and embark on one of the world’s best trips to work and home again, here in Hobart on the Derwent. In less than ten minutes they disembark at Sullivan’s Cove, close to work, shopping and Salamanca. It takes the stress out of travel, and is good for the environment.

“It is time again for Hobart and Clarence Councils and the state government to make commuting by water a viable alternative. ”

Ald Burnet is joined by Clarence Alderman Greens Deputy Mayoral candidate, Ald Kay McFarlane, who believes more ferries would be a welcome addition to the eastern shore too.

Ald Burnet added, “Real partnerships between state federal and local government are required to get this idea implemented. Simon Crean’s visit to Hobart last month and his call to have shovel-ready projects of regional significance, to me was the green light to have decent infrastructure proposals and the political will to deliver them.

Rod Howard, operator of Hobart Water Taxis has a regular group he ferries back and forth from Bellerive. “We could easily run ferries from other areas where the onshore facilities could be improved.”

Alderman Burnet believes that this is a great opportunity to reduce the city and the region’s greenhouse gas emissions and the frustration faced by hundreds in traffic each morning. “I want to see more integrated transport options available, and that is why I’m calling on MAST, and the state and federal governments, to work for the southern region, and invest in infrastructure upgrades at Hobart, Montague Bay, Lindisfarne and Bellerive at least to give people this option.

“If we can take a hundred or more cars off the road and reduce the congestion on the Bridge each morning, car drivers are happy, and the environment benefits.”

Ald Burnet will be announcing later in the week more of her transport strategy to improve public and healthy transport options for Hobart and the southern region.

For further Information: Helen Burnet - 0417 284 267

www.helenburnet.com.au