A three-month trial allowing pet dogs on ferries and CityCats has been formally proposed, following a month-long survey which revealed an overwhelming public support for the idea.
Between 30 August to 30 September 2019, feedback was sought from the community, the ferry operator and other stakeholders, regarding the proposed trial. The survey received almost 5,000 responses, of which, 85 percent supported the idea of allowing pet dogs to travel on CityCats, 80 percent on cross river ferries, and 77 percent on City Hoppers.
“People have been telling us for a while now that they wanted us to give this idea a go, but it was important that we asked people for their views on how the trial could be run,” Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said.
“It probably isn’t surprising that the vast majority of dog owners and assistance dog owners supported the trial, but more than half of respondents who did not own a dog also thought the trial was a good idea,” Mr Bailey said.
However, during the trial, dogs can only travel during off-peak times. Pet dogs will not be permitted between 6am-8.30am and 3.30pm-7pm Monday to Friday.
Also, pet dogs need to be in a carrier, or on a lead and wearing a muzzle; and remain under the control of their handler at all times.
During the three-month period, Translink will monitor how people respond to the trial and use the service, and see if an extension or policy changes are necessary.
The start date of the trial will be announced after Translink has analysed the survey feedback and concluded its discussions with Brisbane City Council, ferry operator Transdev and accessibility reference groups.