Bruny Island ferries to be built locally - boost for economy and jobs
The Hodgman Liberal Government welcomes today’s announcement that SeaLink Travel Group will build two new Bruny Island ferries in Tasmania.
SeaLink has already built six vessels in Tasmania since 2013 and the contract with Richardson Devine Marine for the two new Bruny Island ferries is a vote of confidence in the local ship-building industry and a further boost for the Tasmanian economy.
SeaLink will deliver a modern, more reliable ferry service for Bruny Island with increased capacity. The first new ferry is expected to be in service by late 2019 and the second by 2021.
SeaLink continues to consult with the local community and the Bruny Island Reference Group to provide a contemporary and relevant service and the final design of the second ferry will be based around public demand and requirements at the time.
I continue to get positive feedback from the Bruny Island community about SeaLink’s community consultation and the recent announcement of an expanded summer timetable to deal with peak demand.
The Tasmanian Government’s focus has always been to provide a modern service that is more efficient and best meets the future demands of all users.
The Hodgman Liberal Government is committed to upgrading Tasmania’s infrastructure to meet demand from locals and visitors as our economy grows and more jobs are created.
Congratulations again to SeaLink, an experienced and proven operator of ferries throughout Australia, for partnering with local firm RDM to build the new Bruny Island ferries of the future and securing local jobs and expertise.
