Residents of Bright, Myrtleford, Porepunkah and Wangaratta with reduced mobility will find it easier to access local services, shops and social opportunities with the Brumby Labor Government providing $36,400 to fund an additional bus service.
Member for Northern Victoria Region, Candy Broad, today launched the 12-month trial of a weekly bus service, which has a low-floor that makes it easier for people with limited mobility to get on the bus.
“The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to stand up for vulnerable Victorians and provide a world-class transport system,” Ms Broad said.
“Accessible transport is vital to everyday life in regional Victoria, and crucial to enhancing community connection.
“This bus service will make it easier for mobility impaired people to do their shopping, get to medical appointments, see their family and friends and enjoy sporting and other social activities.
“It will also give people better access to V/Line services connecting to Melbourne.”
Ms Broad said local residents, including representatives from the Alpine Transport Advisory Group, had worked to establish the service through the Brumby Labor Government’s Transport Connections initiative.
“Residents identified the need for a more accessible service as part of the North East Transport Connections project, and the Brumby Labor Government is pleased to be able to contribute $36,400 to make this trial possible,” she said.
Community Development Minister Peter Batchelor said the Brumby Labor Government had recently committed $80 million dollars to continue to support Transport Connections across the state.
“This commitment builds on the $18.3 million the Brumby Labor Government has already invested in increasing community access and opportunities through Transport Connections,” he said.
“We’ve seen the Transport Connections program makes a positive impact on communities.
“The North East Transport Connections working group has been passionate and committed to delivering this project for local people so I thank everyone involved for their efforts.
“I encourage local residents to get behind the trial and make it a huge success.”
North East Transport Connections is managed by Community Accessability Inc with funding from the Brumby Labor Government.
For more information on Transport Connections, visit www.dpcd.vic.gov.au