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East Gippsland Shire adopts fairer Raymond Island Ferry pass system, replacing portable passes with vehicle stickers from 2026/27

East Gippsland Shire Council will replace Raymond Island Ferry portable passes with vehicle stickers by 2026/27, introducing fairer allocations for residents and tenants, with interim free pass improvements effective immediately.

By news@gippsland - 18th September 2025 - Back to News

East Gippsland Shire Council has voted to change the Raymond Island Ferry resident pass system, making it fairer and easier to use. From the 2026/27 financial year, the portable pass system is proposed to be replaced with a vehicle sticker system. Developed-land owners on Raymond Island will receive two free annual passes, while residential tenants (excluding short-stay rentals) will receive one.

From 2026/27, Raymond Island Ferry portable passes will be replaced with vehicle stickers, giving landowners two free passes and tenants one

Ferry pass changes

Council has also approved interim measures to immediately improve the system. Owners of developed land will receive a second free pass for the rest of the 2025/26 year, and residential tenants can now access one free pass with proof of tenancy.

Raymond Island residents or current pass holders do not need to take any action about their current passes this year. Implementation arrangements will be communicated over the next two weeks. Pro-rata refunds will be offered to those who bought annual passes but no longer need them.

Simplifying ferry access

Mayor Cr John White said the changes fix problems that have come up with the portable passes. "When residents forget a pass, it means they can't access the ferry," Cr White said. "And renters were left out entirely."

The current system has caused inconsistent allocations and risks of unauthorised sharing. The fixed sticker system will solve these problems and make it easier for ferry staff to identify vehicles. Emergency services will continue to travel free.

The changes follow consultation with the Raymond Island Community Association (RICA) and the Paynesville Business and Tourism Association. Further community consultation will happen before the new adopted system starts in 2026/27. The ferry provides essential access between Raymond Island and Paynesville, supporting thousands of crossings every year.

Pictures from East Gippsland Shire Council Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com