Brisbane City Council proposes licensed bars on CityCat ferries amid union opposition

Consensus Summary

Brisbane City Council is proposing a pilot program to install licensed bars on up to 10 of its double-decker CityCat ferries, drawing inspiration from similar services in Sydney. The plan, still in early stages, aims to offer passengers the option to purchase drinks during their journey, with details like opening hours and product offerings yet to be finalized. Both 7NEWS and ABC report that the idea has sparked significant debate, with unions warning of increased workload and safety risks for ferry crews already stretched by a long-running pay dispute with operator RiverCity Ferries.

The proposal comes amid ongoing tensions between ferry workers and management, with industrial action disrupting services in recent months. According to ABC, pay negotiations between the Maritime Workers Union and RiverCity Ferries have been ongoing since October last year, with workers conducting intermittent strikes since July 30. The unions argue the bar proposal was introduced without consulting crew members, who already face challenges like fatigue and inadequate meal breaks. 7NEWS highlights that the unions view the plan as a 'ridiculous proposal' that could exacerbate these issues, particularly given the potential for intoxicated passengers to increase workload and safety risks.

Key figures involved include Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, who supports the proposal as a way to enhance the passenger experience, and union representatives like MUA Queensland Branch Secretary Aaron Johnston and AMOU industrial officer Tracey Ellis, who have strongly opposed it. Schrinner, quoted by 7NEWS, noted that ferry rides can take 'up to 80 minutes' when traveling the full length of the river, suggesting this as a justification for the bar idea. Meanwhile, ABC reports that councillor Andrew Wines emphasized compliance with liquor licensing laws and responsible service of alcohol, framing the proposal as a way to 'make living in Brisbane even more enjoyable' rather than creating a party atmosphere.

The two sources diverge slightly in their emphasis and specific details. 7NEWS focuses on the unions' concerns about the '50-cent fares' increasing crew workload and the potential for '100 per cent' more strikes if the proposal is implemented without addressing these issues. ABC, however, highlights the timeline of the pay dispute, including the refusal of ferry staff to work on Riverfire night on September 5, and the broader context of the council's priorities. While both outlets agree on the core proposal and union opposition, ABC provides more specific dates related to the pay dispute, whereas 7NEWS emphasizes the practical challenges of implementing the bars, such as refrigeration and vessel stability.

The future of the proposal remains uncertain, with both sources indicating that details are still being worked out. 7NEWS suggests the trial could begin 'next year,' while ABC notes the plan is still in its early stages without a confirmed timeline. The unions have made it clear that any additional workload from the bars must be reflected in their pay agreements, threatening further industrial action if their concerns are ignored. Meanwhile, the council appears committed to exploring the idea, though it must navigate the complex issues of crew safety, public transport priorities, and the potential impact on existing hospitality businesses along the river.