“May Gibbs” coming soon to the Quay

Sydney-siders and those of us working at Circular Quay have a warm affection for our harbour’s ferries. Many of us link memories of childhood adventures to Taronga Zoo or Manly to these hard working little vessels. So it seems almost obvious that at least one of these crafts should carry the name of a much loved childhood champion, the author of “Snugglepot and Cuddlepie”, May Gibbs.

After all the silliness of a public ballot to name a ferry, the resulting name was never a clear favourite, judging by the controversy that ensued. NSW Transport Minister Andrew Constance has had to make yet another awkward press release. “Ferry McFerryface” will be renamed “May Gibbs” and take her place in the fleet; Catherine Hamlin, Fred Hollows, Victor Chang, Pemulwuy, Bungaree

Did you know the gum nut babies are based on a species within the genus Corymbia, family Myrtaceae, their urn shaped capsule bodies is the clue. At the age of 4, May arrived in Perth from London and spent her formative years there until 1913 when she moved to Sydney. The large flowering gums or Corymbias of WA are spectacular and undoubtedly left a lasting impression on May.