A NEW alliance of community members, environmentalists and local politicians have reiterated calls for a proposed Metronet ferry to be shifted from Matilda Bay to JoJo’s Jetty.
“This is about smart city building that develops progressive and sustainable transport solutions and preserves what makes Perth special for current and future generations,” Friends of Matilda Bay spokesperson Lauren Zagami said.
The group isn’t against the ferry expansion, but wants the proposed terminal moved “out of the bay and round the corner at JoJo’s,” arguing the alternative site offers “superior accessibility, reduced environmental and public amenity impact,” and fits better with the state government’s long-term planning strategies.”
• Lauren Zagami and daughter Sophia don’t want to lose the quiet and protected waters of Matilda Bay for a ferry. Photo courtesy Friends of Matilda Bay
“We respect the need for the ferry, and want a terminal location that truly works for Perth commuters, the community and the future,” Ms Zagami said.
“Moving it to JoJo’s is the clear and superior option, that will help reduce Perth’s road congestion problem, and there is already a jetty and a seawall in place, as well as approved foreshore and development investment from the JoJo’s site owners that will help activate Perth’s foreshores.
“It’s a ready-made solution that makes sense environmentally, financially, and for the community.”
The Friends of Matilda Bay collective will host a family-friendly action day on Sunday November 16 from 11am at the Matilda Bay foreshore, featuring live music, food stalls, sandcastle building and a full-scale demonstration showing the size of the proposed terminal.
Speakers include community leaders, members of the Australian Paralympic Blind Sailing Team, environmentalist Paddy Cullen, local students, and representatives from the Ukrainian Association of WA and City of Perth.
Curtin independent MP Kate Chaney, Nedlands Liberal MLA Jonathan Huston and a WA Greens representative are also pencilled in to address the crowd.
Aaron Pitt will MC the event, which organisers say will “connect with families from all over Perth who feel their voices have been sidelined,” and invite them “to engage constructively with the government to ensure the best possible outcome for Perth’s riverfront”.
Friends of Matilda Bay describes itself as “a 100 per cent community-funded organisation dedicated to informing smart and optimum transport solutions that also preserve the important active green and blue spaces for future generations.”