SOUTHERN Moreton Bay Island (SMBI) residents will soon have access to more affordable mainland transport options, with the State Government launching a 30 per cent car hire subsidy under its new Bay Island Car Share Subsidy Scheme.
Open to SMBI permanent residents and ratepayers, the scheme – delivered in partnership with local provider Bay Island Car Share – will offer discounted daily and hourly vehicle hire from October 27 on a temporary basis while the Weinam Creek multi-storey car park is being completed.
The initiative is the latest element of the Government’s SMBI Parking Relief Package, which also includes permanent 50 cent public transport fares and a temporary 50 per cent subsidy on vehicle ferry fees.
Member for Redlands, Rebecca Young MP, said the initiative was focused on easing the parking squeeze on the mainland, particularly during the major works underway at Weinam Creek.
“This is a very unique model we’ve worked hard to establish with Bay Island Car Share to deliver real parking relief for residents who live on our bay islands,” Mrs Young said.
“We’ve already delivered permanent 50 cent public transport fares and 50 per cent off SeaLink vehicle ferry fees, and today we’re delivering the next piece — a cheaper alternative to taking your own car across, so you don’t have to fight for a park on the mainland.”
Under the scheme, residents can leave their cars on the island and hire a vehicle on the mainland for as little as $7 per hour (plus $0.35 per kilometre for a compact car), significantly reducing travel costs and parking demand.
“The Crisafulli Government is committed to reducing congestion at Weinam Creek and surrounding mainland parking zones,” Mrs Young said.
“And once the new multi-level car park at Weinam Creek is complete, we’ll have the final piece of the SMBI Parking Relief Package in place.
“This is something I promised Redlanders living on the islands — and we’re delivering.”
