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A coalition of unions, activists and community groups has launched a new campaign to keep Sydney's famous green and gold ferries in public hands. Applications from private companies to tender for the operation of Sydney's harbour ferries close today. The campaign was launched by the legendary heritage and trade union activist Jack Mundey, under the banner "Gotta Love Sydney Ferries - some things are too important to sell off".

"Our green and gold ladies of the harbour epitomise its working class heritage," Mr Mundey said. "They provide a first rate transport service in an idyllic setting. Selling them off is like plastering a for sale sign across the Sydney Opera House, some things are just too important to sell."

The "Save Our Sydney Ferries" campaign will roll out in key communities serviced by ferries on the Harbour and the Parramatta River. Maritime Union of Australia Assistant Secretary Paul Garrett said the community and workers would stand side-by-side to help Sydney Ferries remain in public hands.

"Sydney Ferries are one of the cleanest, safest and most enjoyable ways to get around the heart of our city. It makes sense that they should be owned and operated for the people, by the people," Mr Garrett said. Since the Walker Review, Sydney Ferries has turned a corner and is now one of the best performing public transport operators in Australia. Reliability has increased to 99.5 per cent and on time running continues to rise at 98.1 per cent. Vessel incidents on the harbour involving Sydney Ferries have dropped from 109 in 2007-08 to 61 in 2008-09 and complaints have reduced from 1,220 to 889 over the same period.

"These statistics show that Sydney Ferries are safe and reliable. They are also an affordable way for people to travel and a popular tourist attraction for the many destinations around Sydney Harbour," Mr Garrett said. Today's community rally was joined by the Balmain Ukulele Club who penned a song for the occasion.