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Summer Bus Service A Huge SuccessThe Bass Coast Summer Bus Service operating between Inverloch and Cowes over the six week summer period has proved to be a huge success, carrying more than 980 passengers. By Bass Coast Transport Connections - 2nd February 2006 - Back to News This is a significant increase from the 500 passengers carried the previous year over a longer eight week period.
"The Bass Coast community is to be congratulated for getting behind the service," said John Sanderson, Bass Coast Transport Connections Project Facilitator and coordinator of the service.
"It clearly demonstrates the need for a service linking the main centres and attractions over the summer period."
This year the service was not only used by teenagers visiting friends and going shopping, but also by many adults and pensioners going about their regular day-to-day activities. Around 100 adults and 330 pensioners used the service.
"All these facts indicate the need for a regular service throughout the year," said Mr Sanderson.
Rhyss Ashmore, the last passenger and a regular user of the service from his home in Inverloch to his employment in Cowes agreed.
"Because of the bus service, I got to do some casual work in Cowes over the holidays," said Rhyss.
"It would have been really hard for me to get there without the bus.
"It would be great to have a bus all year round, because if you’re a teenager and don’t have a license, it’s really hard to get around.
Following a comprehensive review of the service, its future and that of a regular service between Cowes and Inverloch will be assessed.
Mr Sanderson said the number of people using the bus exceeded expectations.
"The service certainly met all the objectives that were set for it," said Mr Sanderson.
"I would also like to thank those passengers who completed the survey questionnaire, which has provided another layer of information for future planning."
If anyone would like to comment on the service please contact John Sanderson at Bass Coast Transport Connections on 5671 2211 or 5951 3311 or email transportconnections@basscoast.vic.gov.au.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: support@gippsland.com
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