URGENT UPDATE: A replacement ferry has just been dispatched from Sydney to Newcastle to address ongoing issues with the struggling Stockton ferry service. The MV Shortland, suffering from repeated breakdowns, now has a temporary backup vessel stationed at Carrington, ready to maintain essential transport links for frustrated commuters.
Captain Cook Cruises deployed the relief ferry on January 2, 2024, marking a critical step as the Stockton ferry service has grappled with disruptions for months. The MV Hunter, the city’s second ferry, is currently undergoing vital repairs in Sydney, leaving residents without reliable access to Newcastle.
This immediate fix comes after months of mounting frustration over the ferry’s unreliability. Commuters have faced long delays, sometimes waiting days for bus replacements during breakdowns, which can extend travel times to over an hour, compared to the usual six-minute ferry ride across the harbour.
Tim Crakanthorp, the local MP, announced the ferry’s arrival just before Christmas, recognizing it as a “short-term fix” but promising to advocate for a long-term solution. He stated, “This alternate ferry will keep the service operating and get our community where they need to be in a timely manner.”
The Stockton Community Group, which is pushing for improvements, recently collected around 2,000 signatures on a petition demanding action from Transport for NSW regarding the future of the ferry service. Crakanthorp emphasized the petition’s significance, illustrating the critical nature of the ferry for local residents.
The new ferry is a twin-deck catamaran capable of carrying approximately 190 passengers. It will be operated by a Newcastle Transport crew, with local training already in place. Nick Lester, general manager of SeaLink, confirmed the ferry’s deployment under a “dry hire” arrangement, stating it is expected to remain in Newcastle for at least a month, depending on the operational needs of the existing fleet.
Premier Chris Minns previously described the service’s frequent breakdowns as “intolerable” and acknowledged the urgent need for repairs. He stated, “We urgently need a fix here. I genuinely apologize for the delay. It has gone on far too long.”
While this temporary ferry solution brings some relief, the community continues to demand answers and a sustainable plan for the ageing fleet. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing discussions between transport authorities and local leaders.
Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds.
