EVEN BEFORE its arrival, the Mirrabooka – a promised new vehicle ferry for the Southern Moreton Bay Islands – is generating excitement with its larger capacity and improved passenger amenities, before its arrival.
Division 5 Councillor Shane Rendalls had the opportunity to tour the ferry and said his first impression was that it was beautiful – and incredibly big.
“We had all heard so much about the new barges, but to stand next to one completed and another nearing completion was amazing,” Cr Rendalls said.
The Mirrabooka is especially noted for its impressive vehicle capacity, featuring a five-lane deck that can hold up to 44 standard cars, with no height restrictions for trucks.
“The increased capacity will almost double the number of vehicles that can be transported each day,” Cr Rendalls said.
For passengers, the ferry offers a range of features designed for comfort, including a wheelchair-accessible passenger lounge, cafe, and a disabled accessible toilet.
Cr Rendalls said that while the barges would not offer the Translink 50c fare for walk-on passengers, they would provide a more relaxed transport option for residents and visitors.
“The sound-insulated and airconditioned passenger lounge and open top deck will give a great view across the bay,” he said.
Cr Rendalls noted that the barge’s added speed should compensate for the longer loading and unloading times, keeping travel times roughly the same.
“The new state government 50% barge subsidy for island residents will make it easier and more affordable to take a car to and from the mainland,” he added, easing parking congestion at Weinam Creek.
With no height restrictions, Cr Rendalls sees the Mirrabooka as a crucial step in improving deliveries to the islands, particularly construction materials.
“I am hoping the increased availability and capacity will provide more options for the delivery of these items,” he said.
Cr Rendalls also hopes the increased ferry capacity will help reduce waiting times for both passengers and vehicles.
“We are currently looking at traffic flow to the barges on the islands to improve loading times and reduce congestion at the barge ramps,” he said.
“Increased barges would also provide a walk-on option for passengers between ferry runs.”
Factbox
- A five-lane deck.
- Space to hold up to 44 standard cars .
- No height restrictions for trucks.
