Safety Concerns Mount After Lawrence Ferry Incidents

Concerns around the Bluff Point Ferry at Lawrence have escalated following two separate incidents today, one involving the local school bus carrying children and another when the ferry became stuck on an embankment in the afternoon.

This morning, the school bus became stuck while attempting to board the smaller vessel, which is currently the only ferry in service. The larger ferry has been taken offline for maintenance, expected to last three months. Parents and residents have described the incident as deeply unsettling, particularly given that no alerts were issued through the ferry notification system to warn residents of delays or closures during either incident.

The lack of communication has added to the frustration, with locals left waiting in long queues without knowing what was happening. Traffic delays of up to an hour are now common, with vehicles banking back into a 100km/h zone, creating further safety hazards. For many, this is not just an inconvenience but a serious risk for families, farmers, and emergency services who rely on the crossing.

Richie Williamson MP confirmed he has raised the issue directly with Transport Minister Jenny Aitchison, describing today’s events as unacceptable. He said he is working with the Minister to address the matter and will continue to press for solutions.

Community anger is heightened by the tragic memory of last year’s incident, when a cane truck became stuck on the ferry, rolled into the water, and the driver lost his life. Today’s events have reignited those fears, with parents questioning how school children could be placed in such a dangerous position.

Residents say two ferries must be in service during peak times to ensure safety and reduce delays. They also want assurances that school buses and heavy vehicles can cross without risk of becoming hung up on the ramps. With more than $1 million in taxpayer funds spent annually to run the Lawrence ferry, many are now questioning whether the service is being properly resourced and managed.
This situation highlights a broader truth. The safety and wellbeing of regional communities must be valued equally to those in metropolitan areas. For residents of the Clarence Valley, the ferry is not a convenience but a critical piece of infrastructure that connects families, workers, and emergency services. Risks, delays, and tragedies that would never be tolerated in the city should not be accepted here. Regional lives matter just as much, and investment, planning, and safety standards must reflect that reality.