Lower Portland Ferry returns to service

Published on 25 March 2020

The Lower Portland Ferry has returned to service following its recent overhaul and the rebuilding of the ferry ramp on The Hills Shire side of the Hawkesbury River.

Works involved replacing the old ramp with a new one to ensure optimal operating conditions in all weather and tide scenarios, and to allow a smoother approach and improved docking in high tides or extreme weather.

To add to these works, the local ferry was towed to Sydney Harbour where the out-of-water survey and overhaul was completed. This happens every three years and is required for maritime licencing.

“It’s great to see the ferry back in action,” Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne said.

“I thank everyone for their patience and understanding as maintenance works were carried out. These improvements ensure the ferry is safe and the service can continue for some time,” Mayor Byrne added.   

The recommencement of the local service comes after The Hills Shire Council and Hawkesbury City Council successfully campaigned the State Government to commit $500,000 a year over the next four years towards the running cost of the Lower Portland Ferry service.

Currently, the Lower Portland Ferry is the only vehicle ferry on the Hawkesbury River that is not fully funded by the State Government and the cost of its operation is entirely the responsibility of Hawkesbury and The Hills ratepayers. 

“The Hills Shire Council is committing $260,000 a year - and that's after the State Government and Hawkesbury City Council's contribution - to continue the Lower Portland Ferry service,” Mayor Byrne said.

“While we have received some funding from the State Government to help with the cost of running this service, it is not financially sustainable for either The Hills Shire or Hawkesbury Councils to continue without Transport for NSW stepping in and taking over this service fully.  

“I thank the State Government for their contribution and Hawkesbury State MP, Robyn Preston, who helped campaign for this vital funding. But further discussions on the future of this service need to be had with the State Government to ensure it continues for residents and visitors to the area. 

"I look forward to working with the State Government and Transport for NSW on a plan for the future of the Lower Portland Ferry,” Mayor Byrne added.

Member for Hawkesbury, Robyn Preston MP said “the injection of $2 million in state funding over the next four years, means that the service remains in operation”.

“It is a vital link for the community. Having the ferry overhauled and returned to service will be welcomed by everyone who uses the Lower Portland Ferry,” she added.