The Raymond Island Ferry will be out of service for three weeks from Monday, October 7 for scheduled maintenance.
During this time the ferry will be taken out of the water to enable maintenance works so that the ferry can operate its regular service with minimal disruption and in line with regulations. This type of planned outage occurs every two years.
East Gippsland Shire Council General Manager Assets and Environment Fiona Weigall said alternate services are provided during the outage.
"We acknowledge that the two-yearly maintenance of the ferry presents some inconvenience for Raymond Island residents, service providers and visitors, but it is essential to ensure that the ferry can provide a reliable and efficient service during normal operations," Ms Weigall said.
"The outage also allows for inspections that are part of the ferry's licensing. Council has worked with the community to plan for alternative transport services to the island while the ferry is out of service."
Island residents are advised to relocate required vehicles to Paynesville by the final service on Sunday, October 6. Designated parking will be provided.
A water taxi will transport passengers during normal ferry operating hours and a vehicle barge is available for emergency and essential vehicle transport.
The barge will not generally be available for transport of private vehicles during the outage.
Island residents and their visitors will be able to access a limited bus service on the island, which will be operated by community volunteers.
Regular inspection of the ferry has been undertaken leading up to the maintenance outage, to minimise the potential for unexpected maintenance work.
