A group of Sutherland Shire residents is lobbying for a new ferry service connecting Gymea Bay to Circular Quay, arguing it would ease pressure on overcrowded train lines while offering commuters a more pleasant journey to work.

The Gymea Bay Ferry Action Group has collected over 3,000 signatures on a petition to be presented to the NSW Transport Minister next month.

“Every morning, the train from Gymea is packed by the time it reaches Hurstville,” said group convenor David Malouf. “People are driving to stations further down the line just to get a seat. A ferry service would give us an alternative.”

The Proposal

The proposed service would operate from a new wharf at Gymea Bay, travelling through Port Hacking and up the coast to Circular Quay. The group estimates the journey would take approximately 55 minutes, competitive with train travel during peak congestion.

Key features of the proposal include:

• Morning services departing 6:00am, 6:45am, 7:30am, and 8:15am
• Afternoon return services at 4:30pm, 5:15pm, 6:00pm, and 6:45pm
• Capacity for 150 passengers per vessel
• Onboard wifi and work-friendly seating
• Bike storage facilities
• Potential stops at Cronulla and Botany Bay

Economic Analysis

The action group has commissioned an independent economic analysis suggesting the service could be viable with appropriate government subsidy, similar to existing ferry routes.

“The Inner West ferries aren’t profitable on their own, but they reduce road and rail congestion, which has broader economic benefits,” Malouf explained. “We’re asking for the same consideration.”

Initial estimates suggest construction of the Gymea Bay wharf would cost approximately $15 million, with annual operating subsidies of $3-4 million required to maintain services.

Environmental Arguments

Proponents argue the service would have environmental benefits, potentially removing hundreds of cars from the road daily. Modern ferry vessels are increasingly fuel-efficient, and electric ferry technology is advancing rapidly.

“Sydney is a harbour city that barely uses its waterways for transport,” noted environmental planner and group member Jennifer Park. “This is a missed opportunity. Ferries are part of the solution to sustainable urban transport.”

Challenges and Criticism

The proposal faces several hurdles. Transport for NSW has not included the route in current planning documents, and the Cronulla-Bundeena ferry, which operates in similar waters, has struggled financially in recent years.

Some residents have expressed concerns about increased boat traffic in Gymea Bay, a quiet waterway popular with kayakers and recreational fishers.

“We love the bay precisely because it’s peaceful,” said local resident Margaret Thornton. “I worry about noise and wake damage from large vessels.”

The action group says it is open to discussing vessel types and scheduling that would minimise environmental impact.

What’s Next

The group plans to present its petition to Transport Minister Sarah Chen in June. They have also requested a meeting with Sutherland Shire Council to discuss planning requirements for a potential wharf site.

“We know this won’t happen overnight,” Malouf acknowledged. “But if we don’t start the conversation, nothing will ever change. The Shire deserves better transport options.”

Residents interested in supporting the proposal can sign the petition at various locations around Gymea and Miranda, or online through the group’s website.