Why the push for the ferry

Some people still persist with the idea that the State Government can be persuaded to help fund the fast ferry to Sydney.

In 2002, the State Government heeded their advisers and opted out of the whole venture knowing it to be unviable.

There were grave reservations, particularly with the projected 55-minute journey.

"In adverse sea conditions, it would not be alarmist to suggest that a seasoned seafarer would find prevailing conditions most uncomfortable. This may have an adverse effect on ongoing patronage for the service," said the secretary of the Institute of Marine and Power Engineers

"The Fast ships proposal rises or falls on the merit or otherwise of its business case and not the grant of government support for the building of a wharf.

"Public expenditure in a venture that ultimately collapses brings opprobrium on the maritime industry at large."

Why then is there this continued push for this ferry?

After all, we already have a wharf at the end of Ferry Rd.

If the wharf is built and the venture then fails, it will be we the rate-payers who will be left to pick up the pieces.

No wonder the council wants a rise in rates.

Margaret Lund Woy Woy Bay