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Commuters call on Victorian Public Transport Minister to reinstate rail buffet service on VLine trains

Amid a growing number of complaints, Tim Bull has called on the Public Transport Minister to provide a buffet car service on V/Line long haul trains that travel directly to and from Melbourne.

By news@gippsland - 27th February 2023 - Back to News

Nationals Member for Gippsland East Tim Bull said, "Over recent months there has been an increasing number of people lodging complaints that they can no longer purchase a snack or a drink on this long-haul route, which is a step back in service delivery."

Rail passengers from long distance regional locations travelling should not be forced to endure such travel without access to food and drinks

Improve services to patrons

Mr Bull said, "You would think in this day and age we would be looking to improve services to patrons, but it is not the case here. I don't think it is too much to ask for a passenger on an almost four-hour long train trip to be able to buy something to eat or drink."

Mr Bull said when he had raised this issue previously, he had been told there would be no food or drink available to purchase on the new VLocity trains, but then discovered the Albury line, which also runs VLocity, is equipped with on-board cafe facilities. "If it is OK on that line, why is this not being duplicated around the state, including on the Gippsland line."

"Another issue that has arisen is the loss of baggage checking services on current VLocity carriages, which is making the rail journey burdensome, particularly for elderly passengers. I have also asked the Minister to please reinstate this service, so those who need assistance with their luggage receive it," he said.

Pictures from Tim Bull MP website.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com