Staff Writers

Dear Editor, 

I write to you about the ongoing restricted hours of the Daintree Ferry on the back of the recent Newsport that highlighted and showcased this issue.

I have some poignant questions that I hope you may be able to help me get answered.

As we all know weather forecasting is an inexact science and as such, highly unpredictable. Experience has taught harsh lessons but also helped establish protocols, procedures and legislation that advise and govern us in how to best deal with these events.

The mostly commonly known and legally required being risk assessment management plans.

I would love to know if anyone has the specific answers to these questions;

1. Does the Ferry have a singular or multiple RAMPs for differing weather events? Are these available on request?

2. Was the river "assessed" at regular intervals after the closure to ascertain if service could resume?

3. If so how was it "assessed" and by whom?

4. At what time was it determined that it wouldn't be resuming service? 

5. Was any thought given to resuming service for a limited time, say 5pm to 6pm, to get people home?

6. Given that the peak tide was yesterday (Friday, Jan 12) and forecasted significant rainfall started the morning before (Thurs Jan 11) was any assessment done as to the likelihood of impending closure? 

7. If not, why not?

8. If so why werent people warned/advised?

9. Is Entrada or DSC running the ferry and making these crucial operating decisions that directly and immediately affect so many people?

10. Either way who is the actual person in charge and why do we never ever hear from that individual?

Kind regards,

Name withheld by request

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