Kingston ferry campaign ‘at sea’

Helen Richardson, new independent candidate for the seat of Nelson, invited a group of Kingston residents, who are campaigning for a Hobart to Kingston ferry service, on a sea trial today.

Environment Tasmania had organised the event as an opportunity to promote sustainable transport options for Hobart and it was part of a MONA ferry sea trial, which ran from Hobart to Kingston.

Helen Richardson, a Legislative Council candidate, invited the Kingston ferry supporters on the trip and said the group was keen to promote affordable transport to overcome growing congestion chaos on the Southern Outlet and Channel Highway.

“The ferry campaigners believe the Kingston area has been reduced to a near ‘one road in, one road out’ community which was unacceptable,” said Helen Richardson.

“Unfortunate accidents like the recent truck turnover on the Southern Outlet caused traffic chaos and gridlock for hours and highlighted the need for alternative travel routes,” said Helen.

“Fast, efficient and affordable transport is also crucial in securing access to employment, especially for young people and job seekers. In addition, investment in transport is a ‘driver’ of jobs growth.

“If elected to the Legislative Council I will advocate for a Hobart to Kingston ferry service to run at peak times to provide a safe affordable transport option.”

Rick Metcalfe, a Hobart-based ferry operator and proponent, said a ferry service for Hobart could be a very flexible and efficient extension of a public transport system.

“Ferries provide commuters with a great experience and significantly benefit an integrated public transport system,” said Mr Metcalfe.

Helen Richardson said investment in infrastructure such as jetties, shelters and car parks would be necessary to make the service viable and the cost would need to be shared by all levels of government.

“It’s important that we focus not only on cost but on the benefits to the wider community and environmental gains that would flow through reducing congestion and increasing safety and wellbeing of commuters,” said Helen.

Transport solutions need to be holistic and a ferry service would need to be integrated with a bus service, feeding the ferry terminals.
“If I’m elected to the Upper House on 4 May, affordable transport will be a top priority,” she said.

Helen Richardson, new independent candidate for the seat of Nelson