Morgan and Waikerie ferries may see more traffic as limit lowered temporarily at Cadell and Mannum
Rural and farm operators looking to use two ferries across the Murray River in South Australia face temporary weight restrictions.
The Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure (DPTI) reduction comes as the state prepares for the introduction of new steel-hulled vessels.
“New ferries are currently under construction, and de-rating the Cadell and Mannum ferries will extend their service life until these replacements are available,” DPTI acting operational services general manager Paul Gelston says.
“Cadell Ferry will be de-rated to carry vehicles with an unladen vehicle mass or laden vehicle mass of no more than 16 tonne.
“Heavy vehicles above the 16 tonne weight limit for Cadell will need to use an alternative route.
“Morgan and Waikerie ferries are alternative crossing points and these ferries have no weight restrictions.
“The Mannum upstream ferry will be de-rated to carry vehicles with an unladen vehicle mass or laden vehicle mass of no more than 10 tonne.
“Heavy vehicles above the 10 tonne weight limit for Mannum will need to use the downstream ferry at Mannum.
“We appreciate how important these services are to local businesses and communities and we are consulting with Mid Murray Council as well as local people to minimise disruption.
“Advance signage will be in place in the area to advise heavy vehicle drivers about the weight restrictions and provide information about alternative services.”