A brand-new locally built double-decker CityCat is about to hit the water as part of Council’s investment in delivering better public transport.
In service from tomorrow (July 27), Binkinba II is the 28th CityCat constructed, and the third next generation vessel built with upper deck shading to provide relief from the summer sun.
Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Ryan Murphy said the new double-decker vessel demonstrated Council’s commitment to providing public transport options across land and water.
“Whether it is by bus, bike, boat or your own two feet, we want to make it easy to get around Brisbane for residents and visitors,” Cr Murphy said.
“CityCats are the jewel in Brisbane’s public transport crown, becoming a tourism go-to for visitors, as well as a direct service for commuters on both sides of the river.
“Binkinba II takes its name from the New Farm area, translating to ‘place of the land tortoise’ in the language of Brisbane’s Indigenous people.”
In the latest budget, Council committed to delivering the new fleet of CityCats, with CityCat 29 set to join the ranks next year.
Cr Murphy said the Brisbane-made vessels will continue to provide opportunities for residents now and into the future.
“We are proud to have our CityCats made right here in Brisbane, with Binkinba II seeing 30 local employees clocking up over 33,000 hours of work during construction,” he said.
“As we continue to explore more sustainable options for our public transport, Council will be conducting a zero-emissions technology trial for our ferry fleet, to make public transport in Brisbane even greener.
“The EVCat is a first for Brisbane and we will be conducting a feasibility study into the battery powered vessel over the next six months.
“Council is committed to creating a public transport network that is modern and sustainable, and has the capacity to grow as our city evolves.”
For more information on CityCats and services call Council on 3403 8888 or visit brisbane.qld.gov.au.
Features of Binkinba II include:
- capacity of 170 passengers, including upper deck seating for 20 passengers
- upper deck shade sail protection
- rear deck seating for 16 passengers and space for 10 bikes
- an open front deck with a clear viewing pane below the handrail
- up to six dedicated wheelchair and mobility scooter areas
- lower windows in sections of the main cabin, allowing passengers in mobility devices and children to enjoy the view
- table and lounge seating options including USB device charging ports
- hearing augmentation loops
- toilet facilities
For more information, visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au.
Head to www.adrianschrinner.com.au/brisbane-news to keep up to date with what’s happening in Brisbane.
