Protecting the Heart of Matilda Bay — For Generations to Come

For over a century, Matilda Bay has been much more than a scenic landmark; it’s the beating heart of community life on the Swan River. It’s where countless Perth families picnic under the trees, where children take their first sailing lessons, and where community groups like Sailability WA empower people with disabilities—including those who are blind or vision-impaired—to experience the thrill of being on the water.

This precious stretch of river has fostered water safety, connection, and inclusion for diverse groups, from public school students learning to row to Perth's vibrant multicultural community gathering to enjoy its simple beauty. For generations, this place has represented freedom, inclusion, and connection—a safe space for all to share.

A Growing Concern: The Metro Net Ferry Threat

While the expansion of the Perth ferry network is important, the proposed Metro Net Ferry terminal development inside Matilda Bay raises serious safety and environmental concerns for every single person who uses the river.

The core issue is the proposed location. Increased ferry traffic, stronger wake disturbances, and reduced access to key sailing and rowing routes will create hazardous conditions. This is particularly dangerous for:

Young Learners: Junior rowers, sailors, and kayakers who depend on calm, predictable waters.

Para-Athletes: Vulnerable small craft used by groups like Sailability WA, which would be placed directly in the path of large powered ferries.

Recreational Users: Families and casual paddlers enjoying the bay.

This location creates unacceptable risks of collisions, capsizing, and injury by putting small, vulnerable watercraft in direct conflict with large ferries.

⚓ The Safer Solution: Move the Terminal to Jojo's

We firmly believe that a safer and more inclusive solution exists: the ferry terminal must be moved to Jojo's. This alternative location supports public transport innovation without sacrificing the safety, accessibility, and heritage of Matilda Bay.

Our commitment is to work alongside Sailability WA, local schools, and community water sports groups to ensure progress protects people, preserves our environment, and honors Perth’s long history of community connection to the Swan River.

Our Community MissionThis campaign, led by a coalition of river users, seeks to:

Advocate for a Safer Location: Demand that the Metro Net Ferry terminal be moved to Jojo's to protect all river users—from junior rowers to para-sailors.

Preserve Access: Protect one of Perth’s most loved and shared public spaces from dangerous commercial traffic.

Protect Heritage: Preserve the cultural and environmental heritage of Matilda Bay for future generations.

How Your Support Helps Protect Our Shared River

Your financial support will fund the expert reviews and community advocacy necessary to prove that the proposed location is unsafe and that the Jojo's alternative is viable.

Every contribution helps protect the future of rowers, sailors, kayakers, para-athletes, and families who make Matilda Bay a true community treasure.