Sydney Ferries EBA Campaign

Ferries too important to sell off, protest rally told

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Published on Monday, 24 August, 2009

A community fight to stop the planned privatisation of Sydney Ferries has gathered pace at a rally on Sydney's Circular Quay.

About 120 protesters, led by legendary trade union activist Jack Mundey, gathered at the ferries terminal on Friday in a bid to persuade the state government not to sell off the historic public service.

In late 2008 the Rees government gave Sydney Ferries 12 months to demonstrate why the service should not be put into the hands of private operators.

Applications to tender for the troubled service close on Friday.

Maritime Union of Australia assistant secretary Paul Garrett said Sydney Ferries had turned a corner since a series of incidents - some fatal - in recent years and was now one of the best performing public transport operators in the nation.

"Sydney Ferries is one of the cleanest, safest and most enjoyable ways to get around the heart of our city," he said.

"It makes sense that they should be owned and operated for the people by the people."

Launching a new campaign titled "Gotta love Sydney Ferries - Some Things Are Just Too Important To Sell Off", Mr Mundey said the plan to privatise the ferries was like plastering a for sale sign on the Sydney Opera House.

"Our green and gold ladies of the harbour epitomise its working class heritage," he said.

Click here to watch the ABC media coverage.