It’s not news to anyone that the islands have been experiencing ongoing population growth for many years.
That growth creates changes not only in population, the number of new houses, new businesses, and demographic shifts but also in the way we engage with one another. The period of time when most residents knew most of the other residents is past and courtesies to each other are sometimes lacking when we consider others as a “stranger”.
One example that strikes me is lining up for the passenger ferries. When the population was much smaller, people showed others respect by not “queue jumping” and boarding the ferry in order in which time they arrived.
Today, it seems common practice for some (not all) to disregard a queued line and instead walk past to the front of the line. Some people carrying goods feel it’s their right to do so.
Meanwhile people who have lined up in order of arrival feel disrespected at that behaviour but hold their tongue. There is also a lack of clear enforcement and unlike a checkout line with a dedicated staff member, ferry queues often rely on unspoken agreement, which can be vulnerable to those who choose to disregard it.
It would be a neighbourly and considerate thing to do if everyone lined up in order of arrival. Respectful queuing isn't just about efficiency; it's a small but significant act of social cohesion. It demonstrates fairness in which everyone gets their turn, regardless of how assertive they are. It shows respect in acknowledging that others' time is just as valuable as yours. While it's a "minor issue" in terms of getting to your destination, the cumulative effect of these small disregards for courtesy can chip away at the overall sense of community and goodwill.
The ferry infrastructure at Weinam Creek also contributes to the problem and it needs to be upgraded as a priority issue. It is my belief that there needs to be additional separate walkways to each terminal (via Macleay and via Russell) as the current single walkway mixes commuters of different ferries and creates confusion, overcrowding and anxiety for those waiting in a very long line.
There is room to build additional walkways and each walkway needs to have a designated exit and entry pathway. There also needs to be electronic signage showing the routes and times of next departure.
Ultimately, fostering a considerate environment is a collective effort but starts with each of us as individuals.
