Howard Salkow

Senior Journalist

RELATED:
- Slight fare increase proposed for Daintree ferry

THE ferry fares for the 2018/2019 financial year have been increased and those travelling to the north of the Daintree on a single trip will pay $16 – a dollar hike – and for double trip, the rate also rises by one dollar: from $27 to $28.

The majority of the fares incurred a one dollar rise, with the exception of buses, who carry more than 21 passengers. For a round trip, they will face a four-dollar increase: from $90 to $94.

In confirming this, it was pointed out that the cost of a ferry fare does not impact tourists.

“There is no substantive evidence that the cost of a ferry fare is a deterrent to potential tourists.

“In fact statistics recorded for the last two completed financial years, have shown record numbers of self-drive tourists visiting the region north of the Daintree River,” according to a Council report tabled at last week’s meeting in Mossman."

At the same meeting, and in the tabled reports, Council was also presented with the following community feedback:

 - Raising the fares will only continue to serve as both a deterrent for potential tourists considering travel north of the river and as a source of further aggravation for those that endure long queues when crossing at peak periods.

 - With the unexpected five-day ferry closure earlier this year, Daintree tour operators lost business and revenue. Not increasing fares for the coming year would be clear evidence Douglas Shire Council supports the sustainability of Daintree businesses.

Vicki Bidwell, owner of the Heritage Lodge and Spa in the Daintree, said she is disappointed with the increase.

“I will lose some day trippers and I cannot afford to lose anyone. Based on the income generated, I question whether there is a need for an increase. Over the years it has proven costly,” said Bidwell.