Brisbane has launched its first-ever Olympic-inspired CityCat, with the KangaCat officially joining the city’s ferry fleet ahead of the six-year countdown to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Read: From CityCats to CityDogs: Bluey Takes Over Northshore Hamilton
The KangaCat is a special vessel operating on Brisbane’s standard CityCat ferry route, which travels along the Brisbane River between the University of Queensland (UQ) at St Lucia and Northshore Hamilton.
Inspired by the Australian Olympic Team’s iconic Boxing Kangaroo mascot, known as BK, the KangaCat has officially joined Brisbane’s CityCat fleet. As it travels along the river, the ferry celebrates Australia’s Olympic heroes while inspiring young Australians dreaming of representing the country at the 2032 Games.
The Australian Olympic Committee summed up that ambition with a simple message: “We hope every kid who sees the KangaCat dreams of one day representing the green and gold.”
Olympic Spirit Takes to the River
Australian Olympic Team Chef de Mission Anna Meares said it was exciting to see one of Australian sport’s most recognisable symbols travelling along the Brisbane River. She said the Boxing Kangaroo is recognised around the world and that its presence on the river would remind athletes, residents and visitors alike of the excitement ahead as preparations continue for Brisbane 2032.
Australian Olympic Committee Chief Executive Officer Mark Arbib said the KangaCat reflects Brisbane’s growing identity as Australia’s next Olympic host. He noted that once the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games conclude, international attention will increasingly turn towards Brisbane, making initiatives such as the KangaCat an important way to build community enthusiasm for the Games and support for the Australian Olympic Team.
Mr Arbib also said the Boxing Kangaroo represents the resilience and determination shown by Australian Olympians, adding that the partnership behind the KangaCat would help support Brisbane’s Olympic legacy initiatives in the years ahead.
Northshore Hamilton on the Route
For Hamilton residents and visitors, Northshore is among the major stops where passengers can experience the KangaCat as part of Brisbane’s regular ferry network.
Already a growing waterfront precinct, Northshore now becomes one of the locations where passengers can experience the Olympic-themed ferry while travelling on the Brisbane River. Whether commuting into the city or exploring Hamilton’s riverside attractions, passengers may encounter the KangaCat on regular CityCat services.
The themed CityCat also joins other distinctive Brisbane ferries, including the Bluey and Bingo CityDogs. Those hoping to ride the vessel can track it through the AnyTrip app under its vessel name, “Mahreel”.
More Than a Ferry Ride
The KangaCat also forms part of wider efforts to build public engagement ahead of Brisbane 2032. Local officials say it reflects a broader vision for the city’s Olympic legacy that extends beyond the sporting competition itself.
Brisbane’s ferry network continues to be one of the city’s most popular transport options, recording a record 6.8 million passenger trips during the last financial year. Combined with Brisbane’s 50 cent public transport fares, the KangaCat provides another way for residents and visitors to experience the city ahead of Brisbane 2032.
Cr Adrian Schrinner said the themed ferry brings the Olympic spirit to the Brisbane River ahead of the official six-year countdown. He said Brisbane is preparing to welcome the world in 2032 while investing in improved transport, stronger communities and opportunities that will leave a lasting legacy beyond the Games.
Read: CityCat Services Arrive at Howard Smith Wharves Ferry Terminal
For Hamilton, where Northshore is one of the KangaCat’s major stops, the themed ferry is one of the first visible signs of Brisbane embracing its role as host of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Published 21-July-2026
