The official launch today of the new John Duigan freight vessel for King Island will be a major boost for the Island community with a larger, safer and more reliable vessel.
The 80 metre John Duigan will have double the capacity and can more than meet the current freight and livestock demands of the Island, as well as having capacity for future growth.
Importantly the vessel has a V-shaped hull and is significantly longer, heavier and wider than previous Investigator II which is expected to ensure substantially better sea-handling in Bass Strait.
The Hodgman Liberal Government is a strident supporter of the King Island community and we are getting on with the job of delivering on our election commitments investing on community projects, agricultural productivity and protecting the Island’s unique environment.
This includes $10.5 million for Stage 2 of the King Island Hospital redevelopment and funding for community infrastructure including the airport, racing club and proposed Service Centre Hub in Currie to consolidate Local and State Government services.
We are also making Phoenix Community House part of the neighbourhood house network with ongoing funding and supporting a telecommunications action plan.
King Island farmers will also continue to benefit from the Hodgman Liberal Government’s comprehensive $150 million AgriFood Plan 2018-23, and with the support of the local community the King Island District High School has the opportunity to extend to Year 12 to provide better education pathways.
Today’s launch of the John Duigan is a testament to the efforts of the many island residents and Council working with the State Government to achieve a significant step forward in terms of cargo quantity, security of service and flexibility to carry the wide range of goods required by King Islanders.
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