NORTH Stradbroke Island residents will soon benefit from the lowest vehicle ferry fares in more than 10 years, following a deal between SeaLink and State Member for Oodgeroo Amanda Stoker.
After feedback about the rising cost of travel between Cleveland and Dunwich, SeaLink has introduced flat-rate fares, returning prices to levels not seen for a decade.
SeaLink General Manager Ben Renwick said the company was pleased to respond to community concerns.
“When Amanda (Stoker) brought residents’ concerns to us, we listened and we’re proud to offer this new flat rate, which represents the best value we’ve delivered in over a decade,” he said.
“It’s a simple, consistent fare that makes planning travel easier and more affordable for the North Stradbroke Island resident community.”
Residents will pay a flat $59 for standard cars and $69 for large cars, regardless of the day or time of travel.
A $20 surcharge will apply on public holidays and during the peak Christmas period.
That represents a saving of $31 on the current average fare for standard cars – a reduction of 35 per cent.
Straddie Chamber of Commerce Chair Colin Battersby said the announcement would provide welcome relief to both residents and local businesses.
“Affordable travel to and from Straddie is critical for residents and business owners especially in times of rising costs,” he said.
“We are grateful for any measures that potentially reduce the costs of doing business.
“The fact remains that transport costs are a significant extra cost to island businesses, be it for our commuting staff or for input products brought to the island for value add and resale.”
However, not all locals are satisfied. Some say the discounts still don’t go far enough, with islanders excluded from Queensland’s 50c public transport fares.
“Why should we be treated differently just because we live on an island?” one resident said. “It’s great to have cheaper barge fares, but we’re still missing out on the same affordable transport options available to people on the mainland.”
Ms Stoker said she was delighted SeaLink had agreed to the changes.
“Island life presents unique challenges, but I’m always advocating for ways to deliver a better quality of life for Straddie residents,” she said.
The fares will be available until March 31, 2026.
