The Nationals’ Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad has backed community calls for Sunday bus services between Strathfieldsaye and Bendigo.
Ms Broad raised the issue in Parliament after meeting with Emily, a local resident who raised the need for improved public transport in the area.
“I have urged the Minister for Public and Active Transport to look into the growing need for bus services in Strathfieldsaye on Sundays,” Ms Broad said.
“A large retirement village is currently being developed in Strathfieldsaye and the population has grown rapidly, with extensive residential housing development in the area.
“Public transport services in the area need to be improved as many people do not drive and find it expensive to get a taxi.
“I was shocked to learn that no public transport is available on Sundays. Over 7000 people live in Strathfieldsaye, and it is only 10 kilometres from Bendigo,” Ms Broad said.
Emily had already contacted Public Transport Victoria and the Ombudsman and was advised to raise the matter with a Member of Parliament.
Emily also organised an online survey to gauge support for the idea.
She has placed posters on bus stops encouraging travellers to use a QR code to vote in her online poll and has had more than 400 responses to date.
Almost 80 per cent of respondents so far said they would use a Sunday bus service every week.
“I commend Emily for her work on this important issue and look forward to the Minister’s response,” Ms Broad said.
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764 linda.barrow@parliament.vic.gov.au
