At least two dozen residents packed the WA Planning Commission meeting. They raised their voices against two proposed ferry terminals at Applecross and Matilda Bay. The subsequent meeting in Floreat was overflowing. Community members of every age and background passionately voiced their anger and concern about the environmental consequences and the potential disruption to local ecosystems.
The proposed Applecross ferry terminal’s artist’s impression, viewed from water level, and the Matilda Bay ferry terminal’s impression from above were presented during the meeting. The Matilda Bay jetty is planned to reach 140 meters into the bay, leading to further concerns from environmental activists. The state government’s new development plan prioritises increasing ferry services along the Swan River. Stage one is slated to begin running by late 2027.
Environmental Concerns Raised
A resident of nearby Nedlands, Judi Wilson quickly became one of the most vocal opponents of the proposed ferry terminal at Matilda Bay. The commission meeting was her chance to speak out against it. She then participated in a snap protest outside, calling attention to why she’s worried about the environmental dangers the project poses.
“I’ve investigated the wave wash, the sea grass beds, the whole environmental impact and the fact that in talking to people on the bay … they just love that space,” – Judi Wilson.
Wilson’s comments echoed the fears of a lot of people in attendance. They’re concerned that construction of the ferry terminal would negatively affect wildlife in the area and destroy habitats. The community successively raised important questions about how the development corresponds with the community’s conservation work to protect the Swan River.
WA’s peak planning body has approved a development application for the controversial ferry terminal and jetty at Matilda Bay. This was indeed their intent, as just last month WA’s environmental regulator announced its decision. Instead they decided against a rigorous analysis of the federal government’s ambitious ferry expansion plan.
Government Response to Opposition
Nedlands Liberal MLA Jonathan Huston responded to the uproar. To lessen the expected environmental harm, he suggested moving the terminal. Huston concluded by stressing that although increasing public transport options is important, defending our local ecosystems should always take precedence.
“Jojo’s is 150 metres away from the Purple Cat bus, which does a turnaround in front of Steve’s Hotel,” – Jonathan Huston.
The local regional government considers this initiative as a first necessary jump start to build out the metropolitan area public transport infrastructure. Premier Roger Cook acknowledged that while some community members may disagree with such developments, they are necessary for broader community benefit.
“But it’s an important part of our network, and we understand that when you make these decisions — decisions that are in the interest of the broader community — sometimes some sectors of the community don’t agree with it, but that’s what government is about,” – Premier Roger Cook.
This budget starts a new exciting chapter in public transport for the people of Western Australia. Whether for work or play, their plans ensure that it will be easier and more convenient than ever for commuters and tourists alike.
Future of Ferry Services on Swan River
Today’s ferry operations on the Swan River today only cross the river – between Elizabeth Quay and South Perth. The connectivity that the proposed expansion would highly improve. It will extend existing routes and open new routes to serve the increasing demand for alternative public transportation in the region.
As discussions continue about the ferry terminals at Applecross and Matilda Bay, stakeholders from various sectors are weighing in on the implications of these developments. Local residents are not giving up on making their opposition known, and protests are guaranteed to continue as more detailed plans develop.
