Following letters I wrote to Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews regarding the Stony Point railway line and the French Island ferry, I have received a positive response indicating the French Island Community Association will be heavily involved in the future of the French Island ferry.
The Victorian Government has committed to consulting closely with the French Island Community Association about future operating models for the service and development of a long-term strategy to address ongoing problems.
Regular breakdowns and rough weather conditions have rendered the service frequently out of action and left many people stranded, including schoolchildren.
The French Island ferry provides a vital service, with residents depending on it to get to work or school and to access health services, education, training programs and social activities.
I am pleased about this commitment by the Victorian Government and hope it will invest in the necessary upgrades to ensure a reliable ferry service is returned to the residents of French Island.
This is a positive step forward and I am delighted the French Island Community Association will play an active role in the future of ferry operations to and from the Island.