Fifth Aussie-made Parramatta River Class ferry begins passenger service in Sydney
The fifth ferry in the new Parramatta River Class fleet, Ruby Payne-Scott, has commenced passenger service in Sydney following a historic voyage from Tasmania.
The vessel sailed across Bass Strait, passed through Eden, along the Sapphire Coast and cruised up the east coast of NSW before sailing through Sydney Harbour.
The journey covered approximately 630 nautical miles with a crew of expert mariners steering the vessel safely on its maiden trip.
Ruby Payne-Scott joined the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (now CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency) during World War II, where her work focused on radar technology.
After the war, she became one of the world’s first researchers to use radar technology to look to space and lead a new branch of science, radio astronomy.
Transport for NSW Coordinator-General Howard Collins said the arrival of Ruby Payne-Scott marks another important milestone in modernising the ferry fleet with more efficient, comfortable, and accessible vessels for Sydney commuters.
“We’re thrilled the Ruby Payne-Scott has arrived following her historic voyage to Sydney from Hobart,” Mr Collins said.
“Each vessel in the new Parramatta River Class fleet will have a 200-person capacity, while using 40 per cent less diesel. The vessels are also future proofed for conversion to electric propulsion when the technology and network infrastructure become available.
“The Ruby Payne-Scott will help reduce emissions, improve fuel efficiency, and provide a more comfortable journey for passengers on the F3 route.”
CSIRO Director Space and Astronomy Dr Douglas Bock said Ruby Payne-Scott was a leader in a new field of research, radio astronomy and fought for women’s rights in the workplace.
“From Sydney’s Dover Heights, Ruby Payne-Scott was involved in making some of the first measurements in radio astronomy. The sea played an important technical role in her work so a ferry is a fitting way to recognise Ruby and her contribution,” Dr Bock said.
“This ferry is a wonderful addition to ensuring her legacy lives on.”
This is the fifth of the new Northern Beaches-designed vessels being built by Hobart-based ship builder Richardson Devine Marine.
It joins the Frances Bodkin, John Nutt, Isobel Bennett and Martin Green vessels that will predominantly run in the calm river conditions of the F3 route, between Parramatta and Circular Quay.
They are all named for prominent Sydney scientists and engineers, with a plaque on each vessel commemorating them.
The seven new vessels will replace seven old RiverCat vessels which will be retired after reaching the end of their lifespan after 30 years of service.
They’ll be more reliable and include more comfortable seating, upgraded safety systems and greater accessibility.
The next ferry in the new Parramatta River Class fleet is due for delivery by mid July 2025.