North Shore residents are learning a long lesson in patience with the Settlement Point ferry out of action and morning motorists queuing for long periods to secure a spot at Hibbard.
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The Settlement Point ferry could be out of action until late on Tuesday night (March 19) after experiencing a breakdown of bearings around 11.30am on Monday, March 18.
About 48 cars were lined up for the alternative Hibbard Ferry around 7.20am on Tuesday, March 19.
By 8am the line had reached 52 vehicles.
A Port Macquarie-Hastings spokesman said replacement bearings were due to arrive at 9am this morning so the ferry could be repaired by engineers.
North Side Progress Association president Kingsley Searle said this was a major issue for North Shore residents, particularly if only one ferry was available in future.
"It's frustrating and we are writing to council to get arrangements to have spare parts in place," he said.
"It's chaos, with four loads waiting at the moment.
"People are late for works and some are missing appointments.
"Our biggest concern is if there is only one ferry available it becomes a major issue."
Mr Searle praised the quick response time of the council's ferry alerts SMS system in getting the word out.
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