Members of S.O.B.S met with the Minister of Transport Thursday 28th Jan. Mr. Campbell who listened intently and was very sympathetic to our concerns. He was very open to us and admitted that the services would not be fully restored to original state but that there were obvious problems (what an understatement!!) and that we would get a response within 2 weeks.
Petitions with over 3,000 signatures, letters from commuters, small business, A DVD of people interviewed and documents from Black town Council Transport Forums minutes were submitted along with other relevant paperwork.
Minister was invited for a ‘tour’ to see first hand what affects the changes have had on our community. The invite was accepted although a staff member would attend.
Following the meeting we contacted Busways about meeting with S.O.B.S to discuss the new timetables and was directed how to do so. Both bus company staffer and Opposition Transport Ministers office (who rang about meeting outcome) both confirmed that even though bus companies and other relevant people had input to the changes that ultimately it was the NSW Government who had the final say and could easily reverse the changes. Also the NSW Government subsidises the companies so that any increases to services, staff or vehicles would benefit the companies as they would get paid more. There seems to be some conflict of information as the NSW Government say something quite different. Anyway let’s see what happens.
Alls I suggest that in the meantime we keep the pressure up and stick with our original plan by writing letters to papers, ringing radio, going to mainstream TV and a rally outside Parliament House if need be.
There hopefully will be articles in the 2 local papers this coming week.
Save Our Bus Services blog is http://sobsmtdruittasa.blogspot.com/ and email address is sobs_mtdruittasa@hotmail.com
Contact numbers Debbie 0409 669 876 9835 1882
We are looking at a meeting in Dawson Mall Sat. 6th Feb 1030am subject to Council approval.
Big cheer for those who attended! Meetings such as these can be very daunting but we all handled it with ease although we all gave a big sigh of relief as we made our way home!!!
Also big cheer to everyone and as the saying goes
“United we stand and divided we fall!” Well we are far from being divided. Let’s take this to them and make it a big win for our community!!
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Willmot Is Also Affected By The New Time Tables Of Bus Services
Pauline, one of our newest group members represents the suburb of Willmot. Although she represents Willmott at our last group meeting and was advising that her suburb is quite happy with the new Bus services. She had reason to believe this as Willmot has a local newspaper created by the their community called, 'The Willmot Explorer'. In the last issue #38 - Dec 09 - Jan 10 she placed an advertisement on page ten 'Do you have a a problem with our Bus sevioes?'
In the advertisement it asked community members to contact the MSW Governments 'Infoline on 131500; or (As the suburb falls into the Mount Druitt Electorate) to be posted or provide information to the Hon. Member for Mount Druitt, Mr. Richard Amery.
She had contacted Richard Amery's office and was told there was no complaints or issues around Willmot received.
Well, we now believe through Janet (One of our group members from Bidwill) that the Department of Housing at Willmot is door knocking around Willmot regarding bus issues they have received. they are meeting during the week and then will provide a representative to our Community Meeting we are organising for 6th February 2010 (further details to come).
Pauline has now advised of sport event that someone she knows couldn't reach in time at Telstra Stadium Homebush at 9,30am on Sunday' and public holidays that they now have to walk to Tregear to get early buses that will make them reach their final destination non time. The walk to Tregear is more than 400 metres - State Government thumb rule. Before,they were able to walk to Lethbridge Park to catch bus number Westbus 780. As it is too long to walk they didn't go to the event!
In the advertisement it asked community members to contact the MSW Governments 'Infoline on 131500; or (As the suburb falls into the Mount Druitt Electorate) to be posted or provide information to the Hon. Member for Mount Druitt, Mr. Richard Amery.
She had contacted Richard Amery's office and was told there was no complaints or issues around Willmot received.
Well, we now believe through Janet (One of our group members from Bidwill) that the Department of Housing at Willmot is door knocking around Willmot regarding bus issues they have received. they are meeting during the week and then will provide a representative to our Community Meeting we are organising for 6th February 2010 (further details to come).
Pauline has now advised of sport event that someone she knows couldn't reach in time at Telstra Stadium Homebush at 9,30am on Sunday' and public holidays that they now have to walk to Tregear to get early buses that will make them reach their final destination non time. The walk to Tregear is more than 400 metres - State Government thumb rule. Before,they were able to walk to Lethbridge Park to catch bus number Westbus 780. As it is too long to walk they didn't go to the event!
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Late Bus Services Do Not Run Anymore - Creates Extra Financial Expenses
One of the community members around Gasmata Crescent, Whalan has had her finances drastically changed.
Before the new time tables were introduced on 11/10/2009, she was able to come home on the late night bus from Mount Druitt to her home the new 780 service doesn't allow her to have a late bus at night , now the last bus is at 10.47pm from Mount Druitt - when she returns from her work there is no bus to take her home anymore.
She now has to pay for taxi fares every weekday night - now this is an unexpected increase in fares placed by the NSW Government and should have been placing another community member under financial strain.
Before the new time tables were introduced on 11/10/2009, she was able to come home on the late night bus from Mount Druitt to her home the new 780 service doesn't allow her to have a late bus at night , now the last bus is at 10.47pm from Mount Druitt - when she returns from her work there is no bus to take her home anymore.
She now has to pay for taxi fares every weekday night - now this is an unexpected increase in fares placed by the NSW Government and should have been placing another community member under financial strain.
New Service Provides No Stops
One of our Group members has just advised us there is a young lady who is doing shift work and has been trying to catch the Westbus 780 bus route around 7am to St Marys on the Luxford road side, of coroner of Belmore and Luxford Roads.
Now this sounds good, until the new bus services were introduced as from 11/10/2009, where the buses do not stop in this particular bus stop - her father has contacted Westbus and has had no reply to this issue. Her father now has to drive her to Mount Druitt Train Station where she obtains a train to St Marys.
Where is the sense of the bus operators and NSW government allowing this to happen within our community?
Now this sounds good, until the new bus services were introduced as from 11/10/2009, where the buses do not stop in this particular bus stop - her father has contacted Westbus and has had no reply to this issue. Her father now has to drive her to Mount Druitt Train Station where she obtains a train to St Marys.
Where is the sense of the bus operators and NSW government allowing this to happen within our community?
News - Sighted New Bus Service 780 Setdown Penrith Only
Sighted this week was a Wetbus 780 bus travelling from Mount Druitt with one passenger 'Setdown Only Penrith' - along Luxford Road during the weekday!
I can see where the Hon. Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Mr David Campbell is saying transport 'around Mount Druitt' is more efficient' - less bus stops and less passengers - that could be efficient. I'm sure patronage has picked up 7 per cent as he quoted on radio 2UE on 25th January 2010 on this service since new time tables have been introduced 11/10/2009!
I can see where the Hon. Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Mr David Campbell is saying transport 'around Mount Druitt' is more efficient' - less bus stops and less passengers - that could be efficient. I'm sure patronage has picked up 7 per cent as he quoted on radio 2UE on 25th January 2010 on this service since new time tables have been introduced 11/10/2009!
Save Our Bus Services Stories Told Are True To The Event Told
At this point of time, I would like to advise that stories provided to us are not made up by the original source provided and to them are true fact of events that have happened. We are not in a position to provide stories that are made up and will not take responsibility if the stories told to us are actually made up by the source provided.
So whomever reads these stories in positions of important do not laugh off these stories as they are true to the fact when told. They are seriously told to us!
Thank you
So whomever reads these stories in positions of important do not laugh off these stories as they are true to the fact when told. They are seriously told to us!
Thank you
Patron Issues for Departing Bus At Mount Druitt Interchnage
According to Shane from St Marys, generally when he obtains bus services that take him into Mount Druitt bus Interchange he always finds it a little bit silly when the entering bay for passengers to depart is vacated and the bus he arrives bus not drop off at the closet entrance towards Dawson Mall. He finds that they always drop off right at the other side of the bay - thus allowing passengers to walk further to their destination!
Mount Druitt Interchange - Mini Bus Depot
Since the implementation of the new bus time tables 11/10/2009, people around Mount Druitt has never seen such activity with buses within the Mount Druitt Bus Interchange. Yes that right, before you would only see the necessary bus services arriving at the northern end - allow for patrons to depart and make their way to the Shops or to change to Mount Druitt Train Station and they with 10 minutes they would then reach their bus stands and proceed to pick up passengers.
The same happens - but it appears that all bus parking spaces are used up and it has been recorded by some patrons that some parked buses don't even move all day. We even see 2 to 3 buses parked alongside the corner of Belmore Road and North Parade just continually have extended meal breaks or are they just there for show?
Some of our Group members Peter and Mary have advised that they have sometimes seen more bus drivers in Mount druitt Shopping then driving -(their uniforms are obvious) - make your own judgment of this!
Buses have also been resting on the Eastern side of North Parade for extended periods of time!
When my father was alive, as a bus driver he worked for the NSW Government - meal breaks were taken for up to 15 minutes - bus would be left engine off in that period of time. There was also what was called 'broken shifts' - where you would work for 3 - 4 hours and your next shift was until 3 - 4 hours away. Then another driver would take over the bus during the meal break. So the bus was in full operation. Again this was under a Government bus operation!
So are bus operators considering longer breaks for drivers and is the appearance of multitudes of buses being left behind in Mount Druitt Bus interchange - leaves a such a marking affect - is the the Mini Bus Depot. This leave community members asking me, 'Are there more buses in Mount Druitt Mini Bus Depot than on the roads?'
The same happens - but it appears that all bus parking spaces are used up and it has been recorded by some patrons that some parked buses don't even move all day. We even see 2 to 3 buses parked alongside the corner of Belmore Road and North Parade just continually have extended meal breaks or are they just there for show?
Some of our Group members Peter and Mary have advised that they have sometimes seen more bus drivers in Mount druitt Shopping then driving -(their uniforms are obvious) - make your own judgment of this!
Buses have also been resting on the Eastern side of North Parade for extended periods of time!
When my father was alive, as a bus driver he worked for the NSW Government - meal breaks were taken for up to 15 minutes - bus would be left engine off in that period of time. There was also what was called 'broken shifts' - where you would work for 3 - 4 hours and your next shift was until 3 - 4 hours away. Then another driver would take over the bus during the meal break. So the bus was in full operation. Again this was under a Government bus operation!
So are bus operators considering longer breaks for drivers and is the appearance of multitudes of buses being left behind in Mount Druitt Bus interchange - leaves a such a marking affect - is the the Mini Bus Depot. This leave community members asking me, 'Are there more buses in Mount Druitt Mini Bus Depot than on the roads?'
Friday, January 29, 2010
Confusion About Bus Services at Lethbridge Park
Exactly a week until today I was at Lethbridge Park walking past a tightly packed bus stop with many commuters at the corner of Luxford Road and Bougainville Roads. Whilst I approached them and advised whom I was - one man said I was the person that had the meeting at Mount Druitt last year and wanted me to run for politics. I denied I would and advised I am only a passionate person caring for and of our community like himself.
Another few commuters were saying they had been waiting for a long time and are frustrated about late bus services - they didn't get these types of lateness before with the old bus services - some didn't even know what time the buses were due. There seemed to be a lot of confusion as there was no sitting room on this bus stop and people would have been standing amongst four rows of line commuters
I have since asked myself when the NSW Government say they have provided better services with new time tables - how can it be better when all we hear is problems, problems and more problems pertaining to these new services.
Another few commuters were saying they had been waiting for a long time and are frustrated about late bus services - they didn't get these types of lateness before with the old bus services - some didn't even know what time the buses were due. There seemed to be a lot of confusion as there was no sitting room on this bus stop and people would have been standing amongst four rows of line commuters
I have since asked myself when the NSW Government say they have provided better services with new time tables - how can it be better when all we hear is problems, problems and more problems pertaining to these new services.
More Issues With Children Regarding Deleted Services
Joan one of our Group members has advised that she had heard from a mother living around Gasmata Crescent where she used to send her children on buses to Mount Druit to reach a private school in Blacktown.
Now her life is disturbed as she has to rearrange her life and her children are the same. Now she has to drive the children to Mount Druitt Train Station so they arrive to school on time in Blacktown. This is due to the deleted 766/769 that went around Gasmata Crescent, Whalan,
We hear of stories regarding the elderly but we also have stories concerning all levels of the community as we hear more we will place place them on our website - this might make the decision makers realise that the reality stands true that although It has been months past the introduction the new bus time tables were untroduced on 11/10/2009, hundreds and hundreds of lives have been changed.
So who are the ones that make application for bus route changes the bus operaters! And they are subsidised by the NSW Government - but they don't seem to have any community involvement with these decisions in a local content! Save Our Bus Services Mount Druitt And Surrounding Suburbs will request for changes to the process.
Now her life is disturbed as she has to rearrange her life and her children are the same. Now she has to drive the children to Mount Druitt Train Station so they arrive to school on time in Blacktown. This is due to the deleted 766/769 that went around Gasmata Crescent, Whalan,
We hear of stories regarding the elderly but we also have stories concerning all levels of the community as we hear more we will place place them on our website - this might make the decision makers realise that the reality stands true that although It has been months past the introduction the new bus time tables were untroduced on 11/10/2009, hundreds and hundreds of lives have been changed.
So who are the ones that make application for bus route changes the bus operaters! And they are subsidised by the NSW Government - but they don't seem to have any community involvement with these decisions in a local content! Save Our Bus Services Mount Druitt And Surrounding Suburbs will request for changes to the process.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Less Bus Services On Sundays For New 759 Service Replacing 755 Service
One of our long standing patrons of previously catching the 755 Busways bus now catching is 759 around Lethbridge Park, John has expressed his disgust with the reduction of bus services on Sundays now hourly with the new Westbus 759 bus service to Mount Druitt.
This increase waiting time and frustration of getting to destinations in longer periods of time and yet. Sundays is supposed to be a day of rest - it appears to be a day of rest for the drivers and bus companies. Before, the 755 bus service was a half hourly well patronised bus service.
We seem to be finding the NSW Government bus services around Mount Druidtt so although 'No Group One Buses have increased or decreased - bus services have decreased definitely around Mount Druitt.
So this is so ridiculous - surely if the NSW government wanted to care of Mount Druitt they wouldn't have made drastic changes that have changed everyone lives. Maybe the Minister and the local members of NSW parliament around Mount Druitt should not have swept this matter under the carpet!
This increase waiting time and frustration of getting to destinations in longer periods of time and yet. Sundays is supposed to be a day of rest - it appears to be a day of rest for the drivers and bus companies. Before, the 755 bus service was a half hourly well patronised bus service.
We seem to be finding the NSW Government bus services around Mount Druidtt so although 'No Group One Buses have increased or decreased - bus services have decreased definitely around Mount Druitt.
So this is so ridiculous - surely if the NSW government wanted to care of Mount Druitt they wouldn't have made drastic changes that have changed everyone lives. Maybe the Minister and the local members of NSW parliament around Mount Druitt should not have swept this matter under the carpet!
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Is Today Save Our Bus Services Mount Druitt And Surrounding Suburbs Day?
Today is hopefully going to be our day and this year in "Year of Save Our Bus Services Mount Druitt And Surrounding Suburbs'!
Personally I wish all our great representatives a great day with meeting with Minister of Transport and Infrastructure the Hon. David Campbell. They will be fighting for all bus flags around Mount Druitt. I am proud of each one of them and also each one of you that didn't make it to see him. What I'd like to say is for each one of our representatives going to see The Minister today they each would be representing thousands of community members that get the buses. So When the Minister says that for every person that is affected there are 7 people that aren't - where does he get this figure from - has this been made up by the bus operaters whom provide the service routes to the Ministry of Transport or is he advising that of areas that haven't been affected outside of mount Mount Druitt. I would say that since the bus services have been introduced at least 60 percent of patrons are affected!
I wished I could have made it but I have made a DVD presentation for Mr Campbell - So somehow I will be there!
We hope we can mark this day as a special day in our future history.
Personally I wish all our great representatives a great day with meeting with Minister of Transport and Infrastructure the Hon. David Campbell. They will be fighting for all bus flags around Mount Druitt. I am proud of each one of them and also each one of you that didn't make it to see him. What I'd like to say is for each one of our representatives going to see The Minister today they each would be representing thousands of community members that get the buses. So When the Minister says that for every person that is affected there are 7 people that aren't - where does he get this figure from - has this been made up by the bus operaters whom provide the service routes to the Ministry of Transport or is he advising that of areas that haven't been affected outside of mount Mount Druitt. I would say that since the bus services have been introduced at least 60 percent of patrons are affected!
I wished I could have made it but I have made a DVD presentation for Mr Campbell - So somehow I will be there!
We hope we can mark this day as a special day in our future history.
More Support From Greens Transport Spokesperson For 'Save Our Bus Services, Mount Druitt And Surrounding Suburbs'
We have received an e-mail from Lee Rhiannon NSW Greens MP and Transport Spokesperson, she writes 'Congratulation to us on our work wish us all the best for the meeting with the Transport Minister and for getting better transport services for the area.'
She also writes, 'Please let me know if my office can help in any way with your campaign. When Parliament resumes on February 23 we are in a position to ask questions of Ministers, put in questions on notice and motions to help.'
We are pleased that there are concerned Members of NSW Parliament whom are concerned for us and offering great support for what we done and how we got here. I remember when one person said, 'You are wrong in what we are doing?' I have never thought that we were wrong at all and knew that one day we would be representing the community without support from many local aldermen and direct support from local state members!
She also writes, 'Please let me know if my office can help in any way with your campaign. When Parliament resumes on February 23 we are in a position to ask questions of Ministers, put in questions on notice and motions to help.'
We are pleased that there are concerned Members of NSW Parliament whom are concerned for us and offering great support for what we done and how we got here. I remember when one person said, 'You are wrong in what we are doing?' I have never thought that we were wrong at all and knew that one day we would be representing the community without support from many local aldermen and direct support from local state members!
'Before Buses Used To Come Us , Now We Have To Go To Get The Buses'!
Everywhere I go this is the common phrase I am hearing from many community members. Don group member from Shalvey is worried about how community members around his area have to walk further to get to bus stops and thus creating stress, lessening time for people stay at home, creates more frustration.
The NSW Government needs to understand for every person they disadvantage with bus transport and make it harder and longer to reach buses another seven are also feeling the same as these people advise other members of these issues and this creates tenfold negativism amongst the community regarding the negative bus changes.
We understand that Local members of NSW Parliament don't get buses everyday around Mount Druitt and that's why they do not understand and they whisper in the Minister's ears how and where buses should be run around the area.
Our message to the NSW Government is, 'Before buses used to Come to us, now, we have to go to get the buses!
Bring back our buses today and tonight!
The NSW Government needs to understand for every person they disadvantage with bus transport and make it harder and longer to reach buses another seven are also feeling the same as these people advise other members of these issues and this creates tenfold negativism amongst the community regarding the negative bus changes.
We understand that Local members of NSW Parliament don't get buses everyday around Mount Druitt and that's why they do not understand and they whisper in the Minister's ears how and where buses should be run around the area.
Our message to the NSW Government is, 'Before buses used to Come to us, now, we have to go to get the buses!
Bring back our buses today and tonight!
Monday, January 25, 2010
Australia Day Today But Not For Some - Especially Around Mount Druitt
There are some community members of Mount Druitt that used be able to obtain bus services close to their residence - but this year this has changed. Thanks to a pre-christmass present given by the NSW Government - bus services may not operate at all during the week or even on Public Holidays on some streets and roads.
So if you are enjoying your Australia Day think of the members of the community that may not enjoy due to these axed services!
Any way Happy Australia Day to all!
So if you are enjoying your Australia Day think of the members of the community that may not enjoy due to these axed services!
Any way Happy Australia Day to all!
Support for Bidwill Community Members - St Marys-Mt Druitt Star
There is an article regarding opening of Bidwill local business by Kylie Stevens in the St Marys - Mount Druitt Star. She refers to our article, 'Not Much Of A Happy Birthday!' (dated 12/1/10), stating how bus services being axed have disadvantaged community members in Bidwill.
We place the website for St Marys - Mount Druitt Star for you:
http://www.stmarysstar.com.au/news/local/news/general/opening-date-a-mystery/1734083.aspx
We place the website for St Marys - Mount Druitt Star for you:
http://www.stmarysstar.com.au/news/local/news/general/opening-date-a-mystery/1734083.aspx
Response to Minister Campbells 2UE Response today
It is good that the Minister would like to listen to us and share the community's concern of the affect of the changes.
In relation to supplying a Shopper hopper service Westbus 674 on Bulolo Drive is only one service that was changed - due to Whalan residents fed up of no support from Government when the Government decided to take out the bus service out of a small and winding road that went passed whalan shops. Nothing was mentioned that they didn't means to do this.Yes, I am passionate about this - I feel like it is back to day one with us if (NSW Government) think that by providing a 90 percent reduction service will make that community happy. Was there local consultation with the local members of Parliament to the owners of Whalan Shops - I understand 'No'! Was there a community consultation with members of parliament to the members of the entire Whalan Community, I'd say 'No'!
Mr David Campbell, one small tiny service does not replace all deleted services around mount Druitt. Our members will meet you on this Thursday with passion thus you may wish to us ask what issues do we have - I hope you do listen to them - each of them are great standing members of our community!
When governments make detrimental decisions that affect all members of the commmunity and want it to be brought in quietly without the community making a complaint. That is when the Government members like to hide. I have even heard that one of our local government members of parliament thought there was no issues about bus changes - yet there were hundreds and hundreds of complaint on the Infoline - and the Blacktown forum - when the issues of Mount Druitt were raised - The Government turned a 'blind eye'.
I think Mr Campbell should see the impact of the bus service changes, walk the distances of where patrons live to the nearest bus stop and I'm sure he will be a good judge of the 400 metre thumb rule for nearest bus stop from the front door of where you live. I have and I walk shorter distance than most people - but some community members walk between 15 to twenty minutes to get a bus! I wonder how many buses a week Mr. Campbell gets to work ,how far he has to walk to get a bus. I have walked with our community members these distances and they do suffer!
Maybe a reality check maybe nice Mr. Campbell - you only go from the advice of your local members of parliament - they didn't turn up to our last Community Meeting on 28th November 2009! They have n't contact me for quite a while!
Look along these new services half of them are runing less than half due to the new services - the services that were taken away were well patronised. Produce the figures to prove that patronage has increased but whilst you do that provided figures for the last 43 years of patronage on bus services!!!
In relation to supplying a Shopper hopper service Westbus 674 on Bulolo Drive is only one service that was changed - due to Whalan residents fed up of no support from Government when the Government decided to take out the bus service out of a small and winding road that went passed whalan shops. Nothing was mentioned that they didn't means to do this.Yes, I am passionate about this - I feel like it is back to day one with us if (NSW Government) think that by providing a 90 percent reduction service will make that community happy. Was there local consultation with the local members of Parliament to the owners of Whalan Shops - I understand 'No'! Was there a community consultation with members of parliament to the members of the entire Whalan Community, I'd say 'No'!
Mr David Campbell, one small tiny service does not replace all deleted services around mount Druitt. Our members will meet you on this Thursday with passion thus you may wish to us ask what issues do we have - I hope you do listen to them - each of them are great standing members of our community!
When governments make detrimental decisions that affect all members of the commmunity and want it to be brought in quietly without the community making a complaint. That is when the Government members like to hide. I have even heard that one of our local government members of parliament thought there was no issues about bus changes - yet there were hundreds and hundreds of complaint on the Infoline - and the Blacktown forum - when the issues of Mount Druitt were raised - The Government turned a 'blind eye'.
I think Mr Campbell should see the impact of the bus service changes, walk the distances of where patrons live to the nearest bus stop and I'm sure he will be a good judge of the 400 metre thumb rule for nearest bus stop from the front door of where you live. I have and I walk shorter distance than most people - but some community members walk between 15 to twenty minutes to get a bus! I wonder how many buses a week Mr. Campbell gets to work ,how far he has to walk to get a bus. I have walked with our community members these distances and they do suffer!
Maybe a reality check maybe nice Mr. Campbell - you only go from the advice of your local members of parliament - they didn't turn up to our last Community Meeting on 28th November 2009! They have n't contact me for quite a while!
Look along these new services half of them are runing less than half due to the new services - the services that were taken away were well patronised. Produce the figures to prove that patronage has increased but whilst you do that provided figures for the last 43 years of patronage on bus services!!!
Sunday, January 24, 2010
S.O.B.S Meeting 22nd Jan 2010
Save Our Bus Services Meeting
22nd Feb 2010
Minutes
W.A.S.H.house Mt. Druitt
Meeting Commenced: 10.05am
S.O.B.S. met today in preparation for meeting with Transport Minister David Campbell on Thursday 28th Jan. 2pm.
John interviewed on 2UE John and Sandy breakfast show this morning. A few callers also rang in to tell how changes have impacted on them and the community.
Thank You certificates were given to all for their contributions and support. Together we can achieve!
A special thank you to John for his efforts in particular keeping our website updated.
People attending Ministers meeting- Janet Cribbs, Angela Plows, Anne Gonclaves, Debbie Robertson – spokesperson for S.O.B.S and Ivy Roberson (President Mt. Druitt CAG).All to meet at Mt.Druitt station 11am.
Everyone to write individual letters re impact on their lifestyle.
Discussions all round into contents.Main Points-
Overall bus services should provide safe,efficient and accessible services (MoT’s report) and the changes provide none of these.
Issues raised at Transport Forums eg.755 to Blacktown (connects 8 suburbs), Whalan , Bidwill, Mt. Druitt and Plumpton. Unreliable times and lack of early morning,evening weekend services.
Peoples safety particularly our children and elderly. Workers and small businesses affected.
Documentation to be compiled eg.petitions,letters from residents/businesses and a copy of DVD with interviews of community members given to Minister.
Bus reviews in future must include representatives from the community and copies of minutes to local MPs.
Meeting Closed: 12.05pm
** CAG – Combined Action Groups MoT – Ministry of Transport
22nd Feb 2010
Minutes
W.A.S.H.house Mt. Druitt
Meeting Commenced: 10.05am
S.O.B.S. met today in preparation for meeting with Transport Minister David Campbell on Thursday 28th Jan. 2pm.
John interviewed on 2UE John and Sandy breakfast show this morning. A few callers also rang in to tell how changes have impacted on them and the community.
Thank You certificates were given to all for their contributions and support. Together we can achieve!
A special thank you to John for his efforts in particular keeping our website updated.
People attending Ministers meeting- Janet Cribbs, Angela Plows, Anne Gonclaves, Debbie Robertson – spokesperson for S.O.B.S and Ivy Roberson (President Mt. Druitt CAG).All to meet at Mt.Druitt station 11am.
Everyone to write individual letters re impact on their lifestyle.
Discussions all round into contents.Main Points-
Overall bus services should provide safe,efficient and accessible services (MoT’s report) and the changes provide none of these.
Issues raised at Transport Forums eg.755 to Blacktown (connects 8 suburbs), Whalan , Bidwill, Mt. Druitt and Plumpton. Unreliable times and lack of early morning,evening weekend services.
Peoples safety particularly our children and elderly. Workers and small businesses affected.
Documentation to be compiled eg.petitions,letters from residents/businesses and a copy of DVD with interviews of community members given to Minister.
Bus reviews in future must include representatives from the community and copies of minutes to local MPs.
Meeting Closed: 12.05pm
** CAG – Combined Action Groups MoT – Ministry of Transport
Western Sudney Public Transport Users Group Meeting
There will be a Western Sydney Public transport users group meeting on the 20th February 2010. Our Group will have representation to go to this meeting as we need ourselves to the wider area to see what support we can give and get. We will Keep you further Informed!
Shalvey Has Bus Services Deleted -Real Issues For The Community
One of our group members has informed us of the time factor that happens now whilst going to 2 destinations with the current bus service - current 36 minutes to Mount Druitt and 22 minutes to Emerton.
It seems that the new times tables are not making efficient bus services and I'm sure if you each ssk bus drivers are they on time the answer is? Angie advised that the 755 bus had a proper well patronised service - by the time the bus reaches Whalan there is little standing room, it was a 15 minute service - which is now replaced by 2 bus services which both have a half an hour service! The 755 Busways service has now made it difficult for her to reach Blacktown - she claims taht she is in Blacktown City Council and previously had to go The TAFE in Blacktown as this catered for student with disabilities in Western Sydney, now it takes longer to get there with 2 buses one to Mount Druitt and then transfer to Blacktown. Parts of Sedgemen Crescent has been closed off and the bus stops remain.
Although bus services have stopped due to rock throwing incidents around the area - she claims if bus drivers have external cameras on the buses the culprits will be caught. Personally I think the offenders or their parent/guardians should pay for any damages caused to buses and/or bus drivers and that the police should introduce a community program for ll young and old to attend as a crime prevention to resolve safety issues around the area. Even unmarked police cars near the buses at night and day to catch the offenders!
Day to day works are finding it hard to reach to work walking further and further to reach bus stops either in pen fields and paddocks or under 'Safe underpasses' as the Minister of Transport has advised some patrons, through closed parks with broken Glass and pebbles around! Let's bring back the buses to Shalvey to what they should have been running too
It seems that the new times tables are not making efficient bus services and I'm sure if you each ssk bus drivers are they on time the answer is? Angie advised that the 755 bus had a proper well patronised service - by the time the bus reaches Whalan there is little standing room, it was a 15 minute service - which is now replaced by 2 bus services which both have a half an hour service! The 755 Busways service has now made it difficult for her to reach Blacktown - she claims taht she is in Blacktown City Council and previously had to go The TAFE in Blacktown as this catered for student with disabilities in Western Sydney, now it takes longer to get there with 2 buses one to Mount Druitt and then transfer to Blacktown. Parts of Sedgemen Crescent has been closed off and the bus stops remain.
Although bus services have stopped due to rock throwing incidents around the area - she claims if bus drivers have external cameras on the buses the culprits will be caught. Personally I think the offenders or their parent/guardians should pay for any damages caused to buses and/or bus drivers and that the police should introduce a community program for ll young and old to attend as a crime prevention to resolve safety issues around the area. Even unmarked police cars near the buses at night and day to catch the offenders!
Day to day works are finding it hard to reach to work walking further and further to reach bus stops either in pen fields and paddocks or under 'Safe underpasses' as the Minister of Transport has advised some patrons, through closed parks with broken Glass and pebbles around! Let's bring back the buses to Shalvey to what they should have been running too
Saturday, January 23, 2010
NSW Government Did Not Bid Well For Buses In Bidwill
Group Members Janet and Sandra from Bidwill have advised how the NSW Government contemplated to remove the service away from Chestnut Crescent Bidwill but apparently they brought in a much reduced bus service.
Before the bus service was entering from the western side of Chestnut which had eight bus stops and now the 761 bus service - enters in on the eastern side of Chestnut crescent and only has 4 bus stops. According to a bus driver that I spoke to from Busways about 6 weeks ago- the drivers are only allowed approximately 30 seconds to set down bus; allowing patrons to leave the bus and then enter and pay for fare. There are many times that the patrons are queueing for a bus because of less bus stops and thus creating the buses to set down for longer periods of time - the bus stop issue is a Blacktown Mount Druitt CAG to refer to Local Council.
The other main issues are less services in early morning for workers and evening, the last bus on Saturdays is 3.57pm, no bus service on Sundays and that means no bus services on Public Holidays. These residents deserve to have their bus reinstated if there is a safety issue for bus drivers then the bus operaters can discuss with the police about under cover police cars travelling with these buses, to better protect the Bidwill Community. Obviously the NSW Government did not Bid well tor this community with the newly introduced bus services commencing 11/10/09, for bus services!
Before the bus service was entering from the western side of Chestnut which had eight bus stops and now the 761 bus service - enters in on the eastern side of Chestnut crescent and only has 4 bus stops. According to a bus driver that I spoke to from Busways about 6 weeks ago- the drivers are only allowed approximately 30 seconds to set down bus; allowing patrons to leave the bus and then enter and pay for fare. There are many times that the patrons are queueing for a bus because of less bus stops and thus creating the buses to set down for longer periods of time - the bus stop issue is a Blacktown Mount Druitt CAG to refer to Local Council.
The other main issues are less services in early morning for workers and evening, the last bus on Saturdays is 3.57pm, no bus service on Sundays and that means no bus services on Public Holidays. These residents deserve to have their bus reinstated if there is a safety issue for bus drivers then the bus operaters can discuss with the police about under cover police cars travelling with these buses, to better protect the Bidwill Community. Obviously the NSW Government did not Bid well tor this community with the newly introduced bus services commencing 11/10/09, for bus services!
Miracle Former Bus Driver Support Save Our Bus Services Mount Druitt And Surrounding Suburbs in Tregear
Without us knowing we have one of our group member who is a former bus driver thus he knows how bus drivers operate under rules and trips!
Yesterday before I was to attend to the meeting I was in Westfield of Mount Druitt waiting for one store to open and low and behold there was a man sitting on the bench that seemed to have a familiar face. I approached and advised of our cause he advised he was a retired bus driver from Waverley Depot and new of my deceased father - I have not seen his face for almost 30 to forty years ago. Jim his name was and he advised he lived in Tregear and they have issues with buses - there are no early buses in the morning - he advised he would contact our phone and join our group. I had been to one shop in Tregear and they said initially people were complaining of the new time tables but now people were becoming complacent with them!
Jim said there are quite a few people not happy with the deleted early services!
This I find as a miracle - how can you remember a face form 30 to 40 years ago? And he knew my father and worked with my father (whom was a 3rd class Bus Inspector - refer previous story)
Yesterday before I was to attend to the meeting I was in Westfield of Mount Druitt waiting for one store to open and low and behold there was a man sitting on the bench that seemed to have a familiar face. I approached and advised of our cause he advised he was a retired bus driver from Waverley Depot and new of my deceased father - I have not seen his face for almost 30 to forty years ago. Jim his name was and he advised he lived in Tregear and they have issues with buses - there are no early buses in the morning - he advised he would contact our phone and join our group. I had been to one shop in Tregear and they said initially people were complaining of the new time tables but now people were becoming complacent with them!
Jim said there are quite a few people not happy with the deleted early services!
This I find as a miracle - how can you remember a face form 30 to 40 years ago? And he knew my father and worked with my father (whom was a 3rd class Bus Inspector - refer previous story)
Friday, January 22, 2010
Report on Radio 2UE John And Sandy Breakfast Show
A brilliant report was made by John Stanley and Sandy Oloisi on 'Breakfast with John and Sandy' on AM radio 954.
There swas such professionalism from the producer Stefanie - as I had some phone handset problems on Thursday - was unable to hear callers and yet they could hear me!
It was amazing how I prepared myself in the morning for certain questions and was ready for the first one and as I was speaking for all of Mount Druitt community members whom get the bus! Wow! Debbie and I 'tossed the coin' over the phone as to whom should speak - at the end Debbie advised I had place majority of stories of our website thus it should be me! Debbie is great as a Vice Chairperson!
I woke up early and studied all areas as much as i could as there are at least 10- 12 areas of concern. It is hard to sum up the issues but the main issues are the deletion and reduction of service, the extension of bus transfers to get to major destinations and the continuance of seeing buses heading towards Penrith via Tregear, Rope Crossing and St Marys more and more often empty. Actually what I ended up saying talking about the suburbs affected around Mount Druitt and what was then flashing in my mind is the safety issues around Gasmata Crescent - the underpass where the Minister of Transport says it is safe - mentioned about double laned roads being unsafe then reinstating what our petition states and that's what we want when we meet with the Minister - That is pretty much it!
The radio announcers were surprised how Mount Druitt bus services were affecting community members of Mount Druitt - they were saying that it needs people power to get the bus services and time table changed. They agreed with our cause and will follow up with the Ministers of Transport.
On behalf of our group I thank you 2UE, for taking the opportunity to interview us and also after we meet the Minister of Transport.
I heard 2 callers coming in - which were special to me - once was from Gasmata Crescent, Debbie complaining about broken glass in the underpass taking prams underneath and the other was warren regarding buses along Eastern Avenue/Todman Avenue being cut.
This is ironic as the response was immediately local and it assiated the community members of Gasmata Crescent - whom thought we were not including them in the beginning! And then the irony was the next one was just in the vincinity of where my mother lives in Kingsford and also in the electorate of the Premier of NSW - How could this have happen so mysteriously?
There swas such professionalism from the producer Stefanie - as I had some phone handset problems on Thursday - was unable to hear callers and yet they could hear me!
It was amazing how I prepared myself in the morning for certain questions and was ready for the first one and as I was speaking for all of Mount Druitt community members whom get the bus! Wow! Debbie and I 'tossed the coin' over the phone as to whom should speak - at the end Debbie advised I had place majority of stories of our website thus it should be me! Debbie is great as a Vice Chairperson!
I woke up early and studied all areas as much as i could as there are at least 10- 12 areas of concern. It is hard to sum up the issues but the main issues are the deletion and reduction of service, the extension of bus transfers to get to major destinations and the continuance of seeing buses heading towards Penrith via Tregear, Rope Crossing and St Marys more and more often empty. Actually what I ended up saying talking about the suburbs affected around Mount Druitt and what was then flashing in my mind is the safety issues around Gasmata Crescent - the underpass where the Minister of Transport says it is safe - mentioned about double laned roads being unsafe then reinstating what our petition states and that's what we want when we meet with the Minister - That is pretty much it!
The radio announcers were surprised how Mount Druitt bus services were affecting community members of Mount Druitt - they were saying that it needs people power to get the bus services and time table changed. They agreed with our cause and will follow up with the Ministers of Transport.
On behalf of our group I thank you 2UE, for taking the opportunity to interview us and also after we meet the Minister of Transport.
I heard 2 callers coming in - which were special to me - once was from Gasmata Crescent, Debbie complaining about broken glass in the underpass taking prams underneath and the other was warren regarding buses along Eastern Avenue/Todman Avenue being cut.
This is ironic as the response was immediately local and it assiated the community members of Gasmata Crescent - whom thought we were not including them in the beginning! And then the irony was the next one was just in the vincinity of where my mother lives in Kingsford and also in the electorate of the Premier of NSW - How could this have happen so mysteriously?
Certificates Awarded to Community Groups And Busineses
On behalf of our group, I have provided a certificate award in recognition of valuable contributions to the following groups and organisations:
Whalan Pharnmacy, Whalan Milk Bar, Whalan Food Bar, Whalan Supermarket, W.A.S.H. House Mount Druitt, Family Meats Emerton and Mount Druitt Library.
They have provided exceptional service to our group by assisting us in promoting our petition, providing meeting room facilities and providing a service to assist community members to look our website details on our website. We thank you all for voluntary assistance and recognising our cause!
Whalan Pharnmacy, Whalan Milk Bar, Whalan Food Bar, Whalan Supermarket, W.A.S.H. House Mount Druitt, Family Meats Emerton and Mount Druitt Library.
They have provided exceptional service to our group by assisting us in promoting our petition, providing meeting room facilities and providing a service to assist community members to look our website details on our website. We thank you all for voluntary assistance and recognising our cause!
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Women Find It Hard To Get To Emerton
Catherine, mamager of W.A.S.H. house Mount Druitt has advised that women all over Mount Duitt Have found it very difficult to reach Emerton - more buses to get, more time and more stress on their day to day lives.
Women wwhom travelled from Emerton to Blacktown on the Busways 755 run now need assistance to obtain bus to get to Black from Emerton - these ladies may have had some learning difficulties before and need the assiatance of W.A.S.H House councillors - they are asking the the NSW Government bring back the 755 BUsways bus that went to blacktown to make life easier for women!
NB: The W.A.S.H. House has an Op-Shop and Emerton community Project!
Women wwhom travelled from Emerton to Blacktown on the Busways 755 run now need assistance to obtain bus to get to Black from Emerton - these ladies may have had some learning difficulties before and need the assiatance of W.A.S.H House councillors - they are asking the the NSW Government bring back the 755 BUsways bus that went to blacktown to make life easier for women!
NB: The W.A.S.H. House has an Op-Shop and Emerton community Project!
SOBS Meeting At The W.A.S.H. House, Mount Druitt
Today, a group meeting was held at the Women's Activities & Self Help House at Mount Druitt (Otherwise known as the W.A.S.H. House. We greatly appreciate their use of the facilities as we are a voluntary group running on a shoe string budget. So anywhere and any organisation that can help we will gladly accept it.
This is where I come to a sudden halt. To organise a group of people that live all over Mount Druitt and to meet at a place that is practical is very hard in Mount Druitt. There is no Community hall or special community places to assist organisations like ourselves. Yes there is one in Mount Druitt Village! So anyone that reads, whom may have interest in this and can change this for Community organisations, please read between the lines and assist Mount Druitt to have a community Hall or community rooms meeting place!
Thank you to Catherine and her staff for assisting us to have an enjoyable day and make our group meeting now enjoyable! Debbie will place minutes of our meeting on our website soon!
NB: W.A.S.H. House is a community based resource centre for women. It is a place of support, information and a step to other services. They offer a range of programs and activities for all women. They can be contacted on 02 9677 1962 e-mail: admin@washhouse.org .au
This is where I come to a sudden halt. To organise a group of people that live all over Mount Druitt and to meet at a place that is practical is very hard in Mount Druitt. There is no Community hall or special community places to assist organisations like ourselves. Yes there is one in Mount Druitt Village! So anyone that reads, whom may have interest in this and can change this for Community organisations, please read between the lines and assist Mount Druitt to have a community Hall or community rooms meeting place!
Thank you to Catherine and her staff for assisting us to have an enjoyable day and make our group meeting now enjoyable! Debbie will place minutes of our meeting on our website soon!
NB: W.A.S.H. House is a community based resource centre for women. It is a place of support, information and a step to other services. They offer a range of programs and activities for all women. They can be contacted on 02 9677 1962 e-mail: admin@washhouse.org .au
Radio 2UE Interested In Our Cause
We seemed to have hit the are that the Mount Druitt Community requested from us on last meeting of 28th November 2009. They required we go to the press Nationally - well although 2UE is not national we are heading there.
Debbie Robertson our group Vice Chairperson had referred a call to me from the producer of John and Sandy radio breakfast program. I will be interviewed between 6.45am to 7.45am, tomorrow. Listen to the program if you are an early bird!
Thank you Radio 2UE!
Debbie Robertson our group Vice Chairperson had referred a call to me from the producer of John and Sandy radio breakfast program. I will be interviewed between 6.45am to 7.45am, tomorrow. Listen to the program if you are an early bird!
Thank you Radio 2UE!
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Walking Over Paddocks - Shalvey 'Vision Impaired Member'
Due to the deleted bus service of 755 one our our new group members Angie from Shalvey is vision impaired and now has to walk more than 500 metres of paddocks from South of Shalvey where she lives via grassland at Peter Van Hassall Park catching the Westbus 759 bus route at Palmyra Avenue Willmott.
Before the 755 was only a few nminutes walk and made Angie's life easier. My question to NSW Government is why affect the disabled members of our community - Why take away services that ere needed by memebers of outr community?
Only Members of NSW parliament can answer, all involved bus operaters involved ,NSW Minister and Ministry of Transport can answer - we now willrequest all areas of government for more community involvement for future bus reviews!
Before the 755 was only a few nminutes walk and made Angie's life easier. My question to NSW Government is why affect the disabled members of our community - Why take away services that ere needed by memebers of outr community?
Only Members of NSW parliament can answer, all involved bus operaters involved ,NSW Minister and Ministry of Transport can answer - we now willrequest all areas of government for more community involvement for future bus reviews!
Shop Owners Are Asking Questions
Another prominent Bus owner in Emerton - who supplies their goods to other smaller suburbs like Whalan, Hebersham & Tregear advised that he didn't realised that there may be a slight drop in supplies to his customers. He was asking whether this may have been caused by the new time bus time tables or global economic factors.
He advised that he would check customer figures in September 2009 and compare it to November 2009 and will notify us, hopefully before we meet the Minister of Transport.
To me, if there is s significant drop then this indicates the same situation may provide the same trend in all business within Emerton Shops. Emerton Shops is probably closer than Westfield Mount Druitt than mosst of the surburbian residents in Mount Druitt.IT could be similar to 'Plumpton shops' if we all are able to commute to Emerton.
We welcome any feedback given to us from any business s and government bodies to enhance and improve our services the way the sewrvices should have been!
He advised that he would check customer figures in September 2009 and compare it to November 2009 and will notify us, hopefully before we meet the Minister of Transport.
To me, if there is s significant drop then this indicates the same situation may provide the same trend in all business within Emerton Shops. Emerton Shops is probably closer than Westfield Mount Druitt than mosst of the surburbian residents in Mount Druitt.IT could be similar to 'Plumpton shops' if we all are able to commute to Emerton.
We welcome any feedback given to us from any business s and government bodies to enhance and improve our services the way the sewrvices should have been!
Thank You 'Holy Family' Parrish, Emerton
As we are a voluntary group we run on limited funds. To assist us we have to seek help from all other organisations within the community.
Today, Michael from the Holy Family Catholic Church at Emerton has assisted us with photocopies of documents we require for our meeting tomorrow. Holy family also had provided to us a temporary meetting room for us to meet in case we need to meet as a group as well.As we do not require it at this stage we thank Father Pat & Father Ed for their assistance.
Today, Michael from the Holy Family Catholic Church at Emerton has assisted us with photocopies of documents we require for our meeting tomorrow. Holy family also had provided to us a temporary meetting room for us to meet in case we need to meet as a group as well.As we do not require it at this stage we thank Father Pat & Father Ed for their assistance.
Group Meeting Wiill Be Held 22/1/10 For Save Our Bus Services, Mount Duitt And Surrounding Suburbs
Although, we are sending representation to the minister of transport and infrastructure, Mr. David Campbell regarding our story 'Minister Campbell Accepts Our meeting on Bus Services 15th January 2010', we are still negotiating numbers of group members to represent us. We have invited the mayor of Blacktown City Council, but he is unable to meet next week with us. Also invited and is available is the President of Mount Combined Action Groups Ivy Roberson.
I have spoken to Ivy about passable reforming the process of Bus Reviews - where the micro suburb by suburb community groups are not directly involved within the Ministry of transport Pubic Forums for Western Sydney. Western Sydney is an extremely large part of group 1 and just to hold a forum at one suburb does not cover the hundreds of thousands that live within Western Sydney. So,this is where Community Groups like Mount Druitt CAG can attend forums with the bus review panel (every 6 months)and be part of the panel - from there any passable changes can be reported to the local communities via local press, possable websites that these groups may have,and provide feedback to the local community action groups.
We are meeting as a group and our group membership has increased to approximately 25 members. This meeting is not a public meeting as so - but is a group members meeting which our group members have approved the local press to attend. We will need to confirm all areas that have been affected , provide all documentation that can support our petition, include community members letters that have been received on top of petitions and will include. We have the following suburbs covered , Blackett, Bidwill, Wilmott, Lethbridge Park, Shalvey, Whalan, Mount Druitt South, Marsden Park, Emerton and Mount Druitt Village. TThese are a majority of suburbs that covers Mount Druitt
This will be the first opportunity the group members to meet since the community meeting on 28th November 2009. We will advise you of any further outcomes
I have spoken to Ivy about passable reforming the process of Bus Reviews - where the micro suburb by suburb community groups are not directly involved within the Ministry of transport Pubic Forums for Western Sydney. Western Sydney is an extremely large part of group 1 and just to hold a forum at one suburb does not cover the hundreds of thousands that live within Western Sydney. So,this is where Community Groups like Mount Druitt CAG can attend forums with the bus review panel (every 6 months)and be part of the panel - from there any passable changes can be reported to the local communities via local press, possable websites that these groups may have,and provide feedback to the local community action groups.
We are meeting as a group and our group membership has increased to approximately 25 members. This meeting is not a public meeting as so - but is a group members meeting which our group members have approved the local press to attend. We will need to confirm all areas that have been affected , provide all documentation that can support our petition, include community members letters that have been received on top of petitions and will include. We have the following suburbs covered , Blackett, Bidwill, Wilmott, Lethbridge Park, Shalvey, Whalan, Mount Druitt South, Marsden Park, Emerton and Mount Druitt Village. TThese are a majority of suburbs that covers Mount Druitt
This will be the first opportunity the group members to meet since the community meeting on 28th November 2009. We will advise you of any further outcomes
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Lillte Did The Bus Driver Know.......
Ivy Roberson, President of Whalan Community Action Group, Mount Druitt Combined Actions Group and Group 2770 would like to share a story to us that actually happened to her and made her feel bad about the bus changes that have affected the majority of suburbs around Mount Druitt.
Ivy was planning to visit her daughter in Cooma for the festive season recently. Ivy had her trip planed that she would leave on a Wednesday and catch the Westbus 780 bus to meet the train at 11.02am, which then takes you to Strathfield, thus transferring and getting a train from Canberra to Cooma and return on the Sunday. So far this all sounds easy, as most patrons who do travel far, normally arrange to meet your destinations normally.
Apparently, the Westbus 780 bus arrived at 11.05am (A forty-five minute wait for the bus on this day) as she travelled to Mount Druitt hoping that the train connection would be running late the =she mentioned to the driver that there are buses that run along Bulolo Road. The bus driver kept denying this and refused to admit that there was the Wesbus 674 shopper hopper service on Bulolo Drive. Ivy had contact Allan Shearan when she realised that the buses were being deleted along Bulolo Drove and lobbied him to get the Westbus shopper hopper bus service that is in current service.
Another lady patron on the bus kindly approached the driver and advised him that Ivy stands correct about the bus service on Bulolo Drive. Little did he know......
Anyway I vy reach Mount Druitt Interchange, went to the ticket office at Mount Druitt Station, was told she missed her train connection to Starthfield.Was advised with future train connection she would reach Canberra and have to wait for four hours for a propper bus service to Cooma. In such disgust and against her daughters' wishes Ivy returned home by bus, hopped into her car, drove drown down to Coomma and returned on the following Sunday by car home.
Again we ask each other , with the new time tables have they improved? - you can be the jugde of that!
Ivy was planning to visit her daughter in Cooma for the festive season recently. Ivy had her trip planed that she would leave on a Wednesday and catch the Westbus 780 bus to meet the train at 11.02am, which then takes you to Strathfield, thus transferring and getting a train from Canberra to Cooma and return on the Sunday. So far this all sounds easy, as most patrons who do travel far, normally arrange to meet your destinations normally.
Apparently, the Westbus 780 bus arrived at 11.05am (A forty-five minute wait for the bus on this day) as she travelled to Mount Druitt hoping that the train connection would be running late the =she mentioned to the driver that there are buses that run along Bulolo Road. The bus driver kept denying this and refused to admit that there was the Wesbus 674 shopper hopper service on Bulolo Drive. Ivy had contact Allan Shearan when she realised that the buses were being deleted along Bulolo Drove and lobbied him to get the Westbus shopper hopper bus service that is in current service.
Another lady patron on the bus kindly approached the driver and advised him that Ivy stands correct about the bus service on Bulolo Drive. Little did he know......
Anyway I vy reach Mount Druitt Interchange, went to the ticket office at Mount Druitt Station, was told she missed her train connection to Starthfield.Was advised with future train connection she would reach Canberra and have to wait for four hours for a propper bus service to Cooma. In such disgust and against her daughters' wishes Ivy returned home by bus, hopped into her car, drove drown down to Coomma and returned on the following Sunday by car home.
Again we ask each other , with the new time tables have they improved? - you can be the jugde of that!
Whalan Community Action Group Supports Save Our Bus Services, Mount Druitt And Surrounding Suburbs
Today I attended the Whalan Community Action Group meetingas a visitor and at the end of the meeting was encouraged by the work done by the group and therefor joined the group.
At least half the members knew myself before I introduced myself or should I say President,Ivy Roberson kindly introduced myself to the group today? I thank Ivy for doing this as she is an inspirational community lady with the the community interests at her heart. She tirelessly works hard as is currently Blacktown City Council Australian of the year 2009.
Anyway,she left it to after the end of general business request both Debbie Robertson and myself to speak of our group. I must admit we didn't have to speak pretty much the members were talking about what is happening to therm, community members and I have given them an update on on what has been happening and provided our website details for them to look at. Without doubt there was overwhelming support for our group and we thank President ivy and her group to provide the time to explain. We advised Ivy that we are try to request the Secretary to the Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, that we would like her to be invited as President of CAG (Combined Action Groups). She was extremely please about this.
NB: Whalan Community Action Group meets on every third Wednesday of each month at 9am. Activities are art & craft: card making, woodmaking, heartwaves fitness program, monthly bus trips (linited numbers) and they also has a newsletter called the "Whalan Whisper' - for further information contact us and we will forward your deatils on your behalf to them.
At least half the members knew myself before I introduced myself or should I say President,Ivy Roberson kindly introduced myself to the group today? I thank Ivy for doing this as she is an inspirational community lady with the the community interests at her heart. She tirelessly works hard as is currently Blacktown City Council Australian of the year 2009.
Anyway,she left it to after the end of general business request both Debbie Robertson and myself to speak of our group. I must admit we didn't have to speak pretty much the members were talking about what is happening to therm, community members and I have given them an update on on what has been happening and provided our website details for them to look at. Without doubt there was overwhelming support for our group and we thank President ivy and her group to provide the time to explain. We advised Ivy that we are try to request the Secretary to the Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, that we would like her to be invited as President of CAG (Combined Action Groups). She was extremely please about this.
NB: Whalan Community Action Group meets on every third Wednesday of each month at 9am. Activities are art & craft: card making, woodmaking, heartwaves fitness program, monthly bus trips (linited numbers) and they also has a newsletter called the "Whalan Whisper' - for further information contact us and we will forward your deatils on your behalf to them.
Meeting Minister Campbell - 'Mount Druitt St Marys Standard' Reporting
The Mount Druitt St Marys Standard Newspaper has reported on our group meeting the Honorary Minister of Transport, Mr. David Campbell.
We have provided the link to the Mount Druitt St Narys Standard Newspaper:
http://digitaledition.mtdruittstandard.com.au/
We have provided the link to the Mount Druitt St Narys Standard Newspaper:
http://digitaledition.mtdruittstandard.com.au/
Former Gasmata Crescent Bus Patron Recently Deceased
Community members around Gasmata Crescent have advised myself of recently deceased member of their community, a former patron of the 766/769 bus along Gasmata Cresent. I beleieve since the new bus time tables were introduced, this made it harder for her to reach bus stops with her current state of health. She remained more house bound. We all wish 'Dot' to rest in peace, Amen!
Minutes of Transport Forums At Blacktown City Council Most Mount Druitt Issues, 'Comments Are Noted And Will Be Taken For Consideration' !
Although, we have highlighted many areas that are affected within Mount Druitt within Mount Druitt and surrounding suburbs, but what has been provided to you is parts taken from minutes of Transport Forums held at Blacktown City Council from 12th June 2008, 27th November 2008 and 23rd July 2009.
Here you will see that same issues currently raised by Mount Druitt community members are the same raised over 18 months ago and the comments made by the representative from the Ministry of Transport have mostly been, 'Comments are noted and will be taken for consideration'! While we accept the Governement has noted commentd what did ythe NSW Government consider, as there were no positive consideration(s) of decsion made towards the community memebers on any of these decsions. So what does the input of community members mean then?
We thank Debbie Robertosn, group member, whom has ask myself to notify all of you of these minutes! WE also thank Blacktowen City Council making these minutes available to Debbie - should you require the full minuteds from us please contact us and we will gladly supplied or contact Blacktown City Council on 9839 6000.
MINUTES OF TRANSPORT FORUM
Held 12 June 2008
Committee Room 3, Blacktown City Council
MEETING NO. 32
Mr Watson advised that Parramatta Council receive a State Government grant to provide such a bus to provide access to the Parramatta Ferry, Leagues Club and Parramatta CBD.
Consultation includes seeking advice from the local MP’s before determining the proposed network.
• Operators must also seek Council approval for local road use and bus stop locations of new bus routes.
20 September 2007
Max Webber Function Room, Max Webber Library
MEETING NO. 29
Council should be aware that bus route / stop locations in bus region 1
may change in the coming year and that this should be considered
when selecting the location of new bus shelters.
Mr Svarc advised:
Page 5 of 10
􀂃 That this had considered when choosing the proposed new bus shelter
locations. New bus stop locations have been chosen following
consultation with bus companies Busways and Westbus/Hillsbus
Mr Watson advised:
Page 8 of 10
ô€‚ƒ He had heard of details for a proposed St Mary’s – Ropes Creek
via Willmot and Emerton as part of the review for region 1..
21 June 2007
Committee Room 3, Blacktown City Council
MEETING NO. 28
Some other Councils have started a scheme where Councils have purchased bicycles and then proceeded to hire out bicycles to the local community. This may be something that could also be considered by Council.
IV. Intersection of Carlisle Avenue and Luxford Road – Provision of a left turn deceleration lane and slip lane. (Proposed next financial year)
11 September 2008
Committee Room 3, Blacktown City Council
MEETING NO. 33
Mr Davies advised that the general philosophy of the [NSW Bus] review is to provide higher frequency of buses on bus route paths in accordance with demand.
This should read: “the general philosophy of the [NSW Bus] review is to provide higher frequency on fewer bus route paths in accordance with demand”.
MINUTES OF TRANSPORT FORUM
Held 27 November 2008 Nirimba Room, Blacktown City Council
MEETING NO. 34
New service design
A good bus service should be fast, frequent, direct, consistent and reliable. It needs to be multifunctional and help the community get to the places they need to go such as school, work, the shops etc. Transport should be integrated and operate as one network. Buses should link to major centres, pass through pick up points such as shopping centres and be able to converge onto roads where bus priority is provided.
Issue: Customer raised concerns that the region 4 ‘feedback’ form bus routes have been changed before and feedback has been received (ie. Route 794).
Response(s): Representative of the Ministry of Transport indicated that the ‘feedback’ form showed the proposed changes. Once feedback has been received the bus routes may change in accordance with the community response to the proposals.
Issue: Customer raised concerns that bus services do not run on time even under the current bus network. How is the Ministry of Transport going to implement on-time services in future? Further, trains between Parramatta and Mt Druitt run at ½ hour intervals, which do not link in with bus time tables.
Response(s): Representative of the Ministry of Transport indicated that the comments are noted and will be taken for consideration.
Issue: Customer raised concerns that bus services will be withdrawn from Chestnut Crescent under the proposed network review.
Response(s): Representative of the Ministry of Transport indicated that the comments are noted and will be taken for consideration.
Issue: Customer raised concerns that bus route 755 will be withdrawn from Whalan and that catching a bus from Luxford Road would be difficult for elderly people to walk that far.
Response(s): Representative of the Ministry of Transport indicated that the comments are noted and will be taken for consideration.
Issue: Customer raised concerns about bus routes which are proposed to terminate at Plumpton. In particular, residents from Marsden Park are concerned that the services will terminate at Plumpton, as there are no good reason that bus routes should terminate at Plumpton. Bus services should terminate at Mt Druitt.
Response(s): Representative of the Ministry of Transport indicated that the comments are noted and will be taken for consideration.
Issue: Customer asked if there would be a change to the school bus route around Luxford Road, Tregear.
Response(s): Representative of the Ministry of Transport indicated that school bus routes will not be changed as part of the region 4 network review.
The 739 service was changed slightly due to safety issues with buses making the right turn from Frank Street onto Carlisle Avenue. Busways made the decision to change this to improve the safety of our passengers and the general public. Frank Street still has a bus services on a reduced frequency but this decision was not taken lightly and as a result, Busways has re-routed the 739V service to travel along Frank Street to provide a service to and from Mount Druitt interchange.
MINUTES OF TRANSPORT FORUM
Held 23 July 2009 Nirimba Room, Blacktown City Council
MEETING NO. 35 Growth Buses
§ ComfortDelGro Cabcharge will receive 102 new Growth Buses.
§ 50 will be put into our City Services = increase in frequency during peak times.
§ Also looking at making the 617 Service ALL DAY service.
§ 25 will be put into the T-Way Services = increase in frequency during peak times.
§ The rest will be injected into the local services over time.
Issue: Customer requested that the route 745 that goes from Shalvey to Mt Druitt, not terminate at Plumpton.
Response(s): Representative of the Ministry of Transport indicated that the comments are noted and will be taken for consideration.
Issue: Customer raised concerns about timetabling problems where buses and trains are not co-ordinated.
Response(s): Representative of Busways said that timetables will be co-ordinated with the roll out of the new Region 4 bus network.
Issue: Customer raised concerns about the lack of bus services on Popondetta Road, after 7pm.
Response(s): Representatives of Busways indicated that there is likely to be additional services once Region 4 is finalised. However, it was not known whether service frequencies would increase.
Issue: Customer requested that there be bus services provided from Woodcroft Shopping Centre to Doonside Station.
Response(s): Busway representatives indicated that there were no plans for such a service at this stage. However there will be a new service linking Mt Druitt to Blacktown via Hill End Road.
Issue: Will the bus service along Woodcroft Drive, to the shopping centre, be retained? Response(s):Representative of Busways said that there had been some talk about removing the 753 bus on Woodcroft Drive but that the final decision was not known at this stage.
Here you will see that same issues currently raised by Mount Druitt community members are the same raised over 18 months ago and the comments made by the representative from the Ministry of Transport have mostly been, 'Comments are noted and will be taken for consideration'! While we accept the Governement has noted commentd what did ythe NSW Government consider, as there were no positive consideration(s) of decsion made towards the community memebers on any of these decsions. So what does the input of community members mean then?
We thank Debbie Robertosn, group member, whom has ask myself to notify all of you of these minutes! WE also thank Blacktowen City Council making these minutes available to Debbie - should you require the full minuteds from us please contact us and we will gladly supplied or contact Blacktown City Council on 9839 6000.
MINUTES OF TRANSPORT FORUM
Held 12 June 2008
Committee Room 3, Blacktown City Council
MEETING NO. 32
Mr Watson advised that Parramatta Council receive a State Government grant to provide such a bus to provide access to the Parramatta Ferry, Leagues Club and Parramatta CBD.
Consultation includes seeking advice from the local MP’s before determining the proposed network.
• Operators must also seek Council approval for local road use and bus stop locations of new bus routes.
20 September 2007
Max Webber Function Room, Max Webber Library
MEETING NO. 29
Council should be aware that bus route / stop locations in bus region 1
may change in the coming year and that this should be considered
when selecting the location of new bus shelters.
Mr Svarc advised:
Page 5 of 10
􀂃 That this had considered when choosing the proposed new bus shelter
locations. New bus stop locations have been chosen following
consultation with bus companies Busways and Westbus/Hillsbus
Mr Watson advised:
Page 8 of 10
ô€‚ƒ He had heard of details for a proposed St Mary’s – Ropes Creek
via Willmot and Emerton as part of the review for region 1..
21 June 2007
Committee Room 3, Blacktown City Council
MEETING NO. 28
Some other Councils have started a scheme where Councils have purchased bicycles and then proceeded to hire out bicycles to the local community. This may be something that could also be considered by Council.
IV. Intersection of Carlisle Avenue and Luxford Road – Provision of a left turn deceleration lane and slip lane. (Proposed next financial year)
11 September 2008
Committee Room 3, Blacktown City Council
MEETING NO. 33
Mr Davies advised that the general philosophy of the [NSW Bus] review is to provide higher frequency of buses on bus route paths in accordance with demand.
This should read: “the general philosophy of the [NSW Bus] review is to provide higher frequency on fewer bus route paths in accordance with demand”.
MINUTES OF TRANSPORT FORUM
Held 27 November 2008 Nirimba Room, Blacktown City Council
MEETING NO. 34
New service design
A good bus service should be fast, frequent, direct, consistent and reliable. It needs to be multifunctional and help the community get to the places they need to go such as school, work, the shops etc. Transport should be integrated and operate as one network. Buses should link to major centres, pass through pick up points such as shopping centres and be able to converge onto roads where bus priority is provided.
Issue: Customer raised concerns that the region 4 ‘feedback’ form bus routes have been changed before and feedback has been received (ie. Route 794).
Response(s): Representative of the Ministry of Transport indicated that the ‘feedback’ form showed the proposed changes. Once feedback has been received the bus routes may change in accordance with the community response to the proposals.
Issue: Customer raised concerns that bus services do not run on time even under the current bus network. How is the Ministry of Transport going to implement on-time services in future? Further, trains between Parramatta and Mt Druitt run at ½ hour intervals, which do not link in with bus time tables.
Response(s): Representative of the Ministry of Transport indicated that the comments are noted and will be taken for consideration.
Issue: Customer raised concerns that bus services will be withdrawn from Chestnut Crescent under the proposed network review.
Response(s): Representative of the Ministry of Transport indicated that the comments are noted and will be taken for consideration.
Issue: Customer raised concerns that bus route 755 will be withdrawn from Whalan and that catching a bus from Luxford Road would be difficult for elderly people to walk that far.
Response(s): Representative of the Ministry of Transport indicated that the comments are noted and will be taken for consideration.
Issue: Customer raised concerns about bus routes which are proposed to terminate at Plumpton. In particular, residents from Marsden Park are concerned that the services will terminate at Plumpton, as there are no good reason that bus routes should terminate at Plumpton. Bus services should terminate at Mt Druitt.
Response(s): Representative of the Ministry of Transport indicated that the comments are noted and will be taken for consideration.
Issue: Customer asked if there would be a change to the school bus route around Luxford Road, Tregear.
Response(s): Representative of the Ministry of Transport indicated that school bus routes will not be changed as part of the region 4 network review.
The 739 service was changed slightly due to safety issues with buses making the right turn from Frank Street onto Carlisle Avenue. Busways made the decision to change this to improve the safety of our passengers and the general public. Frank Street still has a bus services on a reduced frequency but this decision was not taken lightly and as a result, Busways has re-routed the 739V service to travel along Frank Street to provide a service to and from Mount Druitt interchange.
MINUTES OF TRANSPORT FORUM
Held 23 July 2009 Nirimba Room, Blacktown City Council
MEETING NO. 35 Growth Buses
§ ComfortDelGro Cabcharge will receive 102 new Growth Buses.
§ 50 will be put into our City Services = increase in frequency during peak times.
§ Also looking at making the 617 Service ALL DAY service.
§ 25 will be put into the T-Way Services = increase in frequency during peak times.
§ The rest will be injected into the local services over time.
Issue: Customer requested that the route 745 that goes from Shalvey to Mt Druitt, not terminate at Plumpton.
Response(s): Representative of the Ministry of Transport indicated that the comments are noted and will be taken for consideration.
Issue: Customer raised concerns about timetabling problems where buses and trains are not co-ordinated.
Response(s): Representative of Busways said that timetables will be co-ordinated with the roll out of the new Region 4 bus network.
Issue: Customer raised concerns about the lack of bus services on Popondetta Road, after 7pm.
Response(s): Representatives of Busways indicated that there is likely to be additional services once Region 4 is finalised. However, it was not known whether service frequencies would increase.
Issue: Customer requested that there be bus services provided from Woodcroft Shopping Centre to Doonside Station.
Response(s): Busway representatives indicated that there were no plans for such a service at this stage. However there will be a new service linking Mt Druitt to Blacktown via Hill End Road.
Issue: Will the bus service along Woodcroft Drive, to the shopping centre, be retained? Response(s):Representative of Busways said that there had been some talk about removing the 753 bus on Woodcroft Drive but that the final decision was not known at this stage.
Monday, January 18, 2010
New Time Table Buses: Passengers Become Atheletes On Last Nightly Bus To Home!
One of our Community members from Lethbridge Park, Phill, has had a lot of issues with the newly implemented bus time tables introduced by the NSW Government.
The NSW Government would like patrons on to become athletes when you trans at night to catch buses in Mount Druitt Interchange. Phil used to get the bus on time with the previous bus time tables but since the discovering the deletion of the 755 Busways bus service and the replacement of an awkward running Westbus 759 bus route which doesn't goes to Shalvey but goes to and from Mount Druitt via Dharruk, Blacktt, Emerton , Lethbridge Park, loop around Wilmott, Ropes Crossing, Werrington County, North St Marys and St Marys. This is a half an hour service as opposed to 755 which was a well patronised 43 years long bus service. Just saying the last sentence takes one minute to say it! It was one of the lifeline bus services around Mount Druitt.
When Phil returns to Mount Druitt by train he reaches Mount now at 11.13pm and this allows patrons one minute to walk up two flights of stairs walk on the walk way , don one flight of stairs, that takes you to Stand 7. Just saying the last sentence just about takes one minute to say it!
This leaves the Westbus 759 to leave without passengers as it leaves at 11.14pm! With the previous 755 Busways bus service this did not occur! He continually misses the buses and this becomes a frightful experience waiting for the next bus - a safety issue I'm sure the 'Powers to be' didn't realise. He would like 755 brought back as it was before, even with the more enhanced service of n 15 minutes during the day.Why take out a service when the majority of community members were happy with it!
Please fink link to Westbus time table 759:
The NSW Government would like patrons on to become athletes when you trans at night to catch buses in Mount Druitt Interchange. Phil used to get the bus on time with the previous bus time tables but since the discovering the deletion of the 755 Busways bus service and the replacement of an awkward running Westbus 759 bus route which doesn't goes to Shalvey but goes to and from Mount Druitt via Dharruk, Blacktt, Emerton , Lethbridge Park, loop around Wilmott, Ropes Crossing, Werrington County, North St Marys and St Marys. This is a half an hour service as opposed to 755 which was a well patronised 43 years long bus service. Just saying the last sentence takes one minute to say it! It was one of the lifeline bus services around Mount Druitt.
When Phil returns to Mount Druitt by train he reaches Mount now at 11.13pm and this allows patrons one minute to walk up two flights of stairs walk on the walk way , don one flight of stairs, that takes you to Stand 7. Just saying the last sentence just about takes one minute to say it!
This leaves the Westbus 759 to leave without passengers as it leaves at 11.14pm! With the previous 755 Busways bus service this did not occur! He continually misses the buses and this becomes a frightful experience waiting for the next bus - a safety issue I'm sure the 'Powers to be' didn't realise. He would like 755 brought back as it was before, even with the more enhanced service of n 15 minutes during the day.Why take out a service when the majority of community members were happy with it!
Please fink link to Westbus time table 759:
http://www.cdcbus.com.au/IgnitionSuite/uploads/docs/759%20Timetable%2026%20Oct%20Web%20Version.pdf
City Rail time table for trains:
http://www.cityrail.info/index.htm;jsessionid=A1014FE00E8B72139550E2FECB212AEB#landingPoint
Western Comnunity Forum Research Part 2
Today, Irene from the Western Sydney Community Forum was conducting research into the issues that have been caused by the community members of Mount Druitt with Richard and myself from Lethbridge Park.
Irene has advised that the result of her research which due to be completed by end of March 2010, will be provided to us.
These were the questions asked by Irene, we provide with permsision from the Western Sydney Transport Users Group:
Interview questions:
These are the questions about your experience of using the bus and the changes to the bus routes.
1. In the past what have you been using the buses for - where have you gone and why did you go there? when did you start using the bus system?
2. Were you affected by the changes to the bus routes? what was the change?
3.Gaven what you said in Question 1, how do you do these things now that the bus have changed?
4. How has the to the bus routes affected your life?
5. Do you use any other transport? What?
6. Do you have any suggestions to improve the bus system for the future?
These are general questions about the bus system. Thinking about the bus you use -
(1. Access on the bus)
- Are the buses easy for everyone to board?
- Is there disability access which can be used by wheelchairs, shopping trolleys or prams to get on the buses? Does that help you use the bus?
- Do you find it hard to reach to the bus stop?
- Is there a footpath all the way to the bus stop?
- Is there a seat and shelter on the bus stop?
- How far is the bus stop? How long does it take you to reach the bus stop?
(2.Efficiency)
- Does the bus take you to where you want to go?
- How often is the bus service - is that enough?
- Do you think he buses are meeting the timetables?
- How long do you have to wait for a bus - how long is it between buses?
- Is the bus service reliable? What makes you think that?
(3.Affordability)
- How much does your bus ticket cost?
- Is that a reasonable price? and is that affordable for you? How does it compare to other forms of transport for you?
(4.Safety)
- Have you have any trouble getting on and off buses? (yes) What happened?
- Does the bus driver wait until you sit down before driving off?
- Does the driver drive smoothly?
- Do you feel safe on the bus? Why or why not?
Let us know via our e-mail how you would have answered these questions? Let bus drivers and bus operaters know that all of us community members now have a voice for yourselves and that is from now on we will be voice to represent yourselves to all authorities that we are speaking too. We will the group that won't let you down. We will provide further results to you in due course.
Irene has advised that the result of her research which due to be completed by end of March 2010, will be provided to us.
These were the questions asked by Irene, we provide with permsision from the Western Sydney Transport Users Group:
Interview questions:
These are the questions about your experience of using the bus and the changes to the bus routes.
1. In the past what have you been using the buses for - where have you gone and why did you go there? when did you start using the bus system?
2. Were you affected by the changes to the bus routes? what was the change?
3.Gaven what you said in Question 1, how do you do these things now that the bus have changed?
4. How has the to the bus routes affected your life?
5. Do you use any other transport? What?
6. Do you have any suggestions to improve the bus system for the future?
These are general questions about the bus system. Thinking about the bus you use -
(1. Access on the bus)
- Are the buses easy for everyone to board?
- Is there disability access which can be used by wheelchairs, shopping trolleys or prams to get on the buses? Does that help you use the bus?
- Do you find it hard to reach to the bus stop?
- Is there a footpath all the way to the bus stop?
- Is there a seat and shelter on the bus stop?
- How far is the bus stop? How long does it take you to reach the bus stop?
(2.Efficiency)
- Does the bus take you to where you want to go?
- How often is the bus service - is that enough?
- Do you think he buses are meeting the timetables?
- How long do you have to wait for a bus - how long is it between buses?
- Is the bus service reliable? What makes you think that?
(3.Affordability)
- How much does your bus ticket cost?
- Is that a reasonable price? and is that affordable for you? How does it compare to other forms of transport for you?
(4.Safety)
- Have you have any trouble getting on and off buses? (yes) What happened?
- Does the bus driver wait until you sit down before driving off?
- Does the driver drive smoothly?
- Do you feel safe on the bus? Why or why not?
Let us know via our e-mail how you would have answered these questions? Let bus drivers and bus operaters know that all of us community members now have a voice for yourselves and that is from now on we will be voice to represent yourselves to all authorities that we are speaking too. We will the group that won't let you down. We will provide further results to you in due course.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Mount Druitt Senior Citizens Supports 'Save Our Bus Services, Mount Druitt And Surrounding Suburbs'
Today, I have spoken to a representative of Mount Druitt Senior Citizens and they are extremely happy that we are waiving the flag for the elderly that have been drastically affected by the deletion of bus services around Mount Druitt. They have asked asked us to carry on with our cause as there appears to be hardships stories every day been told within its 120 to 130 members.
Thanh you Mount Druitt Senior Citizens! We will keep on fighting for you and as well other members of our community to bring back those buses!
Name withheld
Thanh you Mount Druitt Senior Citizens! We will keep on fighting for you and as well other members of our community to bring back those buses!
Name withheld
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Lee's Passionate Plea For Return Of 762 Buses Part 2
This is the last three pages from Lee at BIdwill for you to read regarding the 762 busways bus service!
Full name and address withheld
Lee's Passionate Plea For Return of 762 Buses -Part 1
Lee, resident of Bidwill and a group member, has poured her heart and energy in obtaining hundreds and hundreds of signed petitions. She is waiving the ‘762 bus service flag’ and she has written her story on the first day of when the new bus services were implemented 11/10/2009 and how it affected her.
With her permission, we ask you to read the letter which is a local story that a lot of elderly community members share. Others find it hard to put it on pen and paper but as I travel from suburb to suburb, there are so many people affected. On behalf of Lee – I ask the NSW Government to consider the return of the 762 Busways Bus service and also all others that were taken away from all Mount Druitt and surrounding suburbs community members. Thank you Lee for telling your story and raising those petitions!
We have included the first three pages on this blog.
full name and address withheld
Emerton Village Shops Are Suffering From Deleted Bus Services
Today, I had been promoting our cause to a few shop owners in Emerton Village late in the afternoon and struck gold. Well when I mean I struck gold, I had spoken to a fairly new small businessman who claims that the deletion of bus services has affected his business and also the Emerton Village Centre as well.
Steve from Family Meats ,Shop 40, Emerton Village was relieved to meet myself. He explained that the 755 bus service stop outside on the corner of Jersey and Popondetta Roads Emerton and advised that lots of patrons then enetered the Emerton Village from that entrance would go to the Post Office ( which acts as an agent for Commonwealth Bank of Australia), withdraw funds for shopping and proceed to shop to purchase goods. He then had customers that reached his shop to purchase items.
Steve also claims that due to buses not stopping on the corner of Jersey and Popondetta Roads coming from Shalavey to Moiunt Dtuitt (which is since the introduction of the new time tables 11/10/2009) customers that caught these 755 buses before are not coming in to Emerton village thus providing a reduction of customers purchasing his goods by 20 to 25 percent. What he is doing to retain his customers is offering a delivery service after hours, with a reasonable purchase. Customers from Surrounding suburbs: Wilmott, Shalvey, Bidwill, Lethbridge Park, Whalan used to get the bus to his shop, now they can not make it to Emerton Village. He has noticed that with the new time table passengers are being ferried more to and from Plumpton Shops and Mount Druitt Westfield Shops and less to the medium shopping centres like Emerton and even smaller suburban shops, around the area. As there is a chamber of commerce in Emerton Village to discuss issues with relevant government bodies he feels no one is listening.
Since the new bus time tables have been introduced 11/10/2009, there has been 2 shops close down to reduction of customers and another shop will be closing next week.
When I explained to Steve about one of our community members issue regarding purchasing eggs (refer article called 'Not Much Of A Happy Birthday!' dated 12/1/2010) - he advised he could have helped that community member if she had called him - he would have been happy to assist her as he also sells eggs.
he will speak to other business owners in the village about our cause as he wants the Busways bus 755 service to be brought back so that he is customers can come back to him. Now I wish that he could stoke gold by the return of customers and buses for his business and other small bushiness in Emerton Village Shops.
Contact details for Steve is 02 9628 6055.
Again, I seem to see a trend around our small to medium size shops that the NSW Government and bus operaters are turning buses away from these places and when to you go to Mount Druitt their is that Mini Bus Depot at Mount Druitt Interchange, out there - Up to twelve buses are waiting - waiting to go back into service? and then there the side streets, sometimes buses at the corner of Belmore Road and North Parade. Do we have more buses than bus services?
Steve from Family Meats ,Shop 40, Emerton Village was relieved to meet myself. He explained that the 755 bus service stop outside on the corner of Jersey and Popondetta Roads Emerton and advised that lots of patrons then enetered the Emerton Village from that entrance would go to the Post Office ( which acts as an agent for Commonwealth Bank of Australia), withdraw funds for shopping and proceed to shop to purchase goods. He then had customers that reached his shop to purchase items.
Steve also claims that due to buses not stopping on the corner of Jersey and Popondetta Roads coming from Shalavey to Moiunt Dtuitt (which is since the introduction of the new time tables 11/10/2009) customers that caught these 755 buses before are not coming in to Emerton village thus providing a reduction of customers purchasing his goods by 20 to 25 percent. What he is doing to retain his customers is offering a delivery service after hours, with a reasonable purchase. Customers from Surrounding suburbs: Wilmott, Shalvey, Bidwill, Lethbridge Park, Whalan used to get the bus to his shop, now they can not make it to Emerton Village. He has noticed that with the new time table passengers are being ferried more to and from Plumpton Shops and Mount Druitt Westfield Shops and less to the medium shopping centres like Emerton and even smaller suburban shops, around the area. As there is a chamber of commerce in Emerton Village to discuss issues with relevant government bodies he feels no one is listening.
Since the new bus time tables have been introduced 11/10/2009, there has been 2 shops close down to reduction of customers and another shop will be closing next week.
When I explained to Steve about one of our community members issue regarding purchasing eggs (refer article called 'Not Much Of A Happy Birthday!' dated 12/1/2010) - he advised he could have helped that community member if she had called him - he would have been happy to assist her as he also sells eggs.
he will speak to other business owners in the village about our cause as he wants the Busways bus 755 service to be brought back so that he is customers can come back to him. Now I wish that he could stoke gold by the return of customers and buses for his business and other small bushiness in Emerton Village Shops.
Contact details for Steve is 02 9628 6055.
Again, I seem to see a trend around our small to medium size shops that the NSW Government and bus operaters are turning buses away from these places and when to you go to Mount Druitt their is that Mini Bus Depot at Mount Druitt Interchange, out there - Up to twelve buses are waiting - waiting to go back into service? and then there the side streets, sometimes buses at the corner of Belmore Road and North Parade. Do we have more buses than bus services?
Friday, January 15, 2010
Mount Druitt Library Will Assist Community Members With No Internet And Computer at home
About a week ago I spoke to one of the Librarians in Mount Druitt on the phone regarding our group and she advised she will place tour group on the community services book in front on the Mount Druitt Library. She did advise that for us to be onthe Libruary list this would have to be approved by Blacktown Council.
She has since advised that if anyone does have a computer and internet service they will assist community members in searching/looking up our website using the facilities within Mount DRuitt Library. I thank Anne and all Mount Druit Library staff for their assistance to promote our cause and hope that councillors accept our group as a community group on the Blacktown Council Community Listings! Let's lobby our councillors!
You know, I have discovered more people that I know that care about the community and if they directly are not affected they feel sympathetic with the local community that has been dramatically affected by complete lifestyle changes.
She has since advised that if anyone does have a computer and internet service they will assist community members in searching/looking up our website using the facilities within Mount DRuitt Library. I thank Anne and all Mount Druit Library staff for their assistance to promote our cause and hope that councillors accept our group as a community group on the Blacktown Council Community Listings! Let's lobby our councillors!
You know, I have discovered more people that I know that care about the community and if they directly are not affected they feel sympathetic with the local community that has been dramatically affected by complete lifestyle changes.
Pre And Post Patronage Results Required!
To assist our cause we would need to compare results for patronage before the time tables changes and current patronage on different services - . Especially amount of services to Ropes Crossing as apposed to total patronage on these services, the same with the service(s) that have been provided to Penrith, Castle Hill and Windsor.
Can we see the thousands that go there every day (to each destination) because the amount of services provided for these areas has decreased other services from within our Mount Druitt area. Even if we can get patrongae figures for the three bus services that repalced 755 (for example) and other services that replaced others and went out of small streets to 'Straighter Roads'!
Can we then obtain figures from the New South Wales Taxi Council of patronage before and after time tables where introduced. Let's get the Members of Parliament provide us with facts and figures!
Can we see the thousands that go there every day (to each destination) because the amount of services provided for these areas has decreased other services from within our Mount Druitt area. Even if we can get patrongae figures for the three bus services that repalced 755 (for example) and other services that replaced others and went out of small streets to 'Straighter Roads'!
Can we then obtain figures from the New South Wales Taxi Council of patronage before and after time tables where introduced. Let's get the Members of Parliament provide us with facts and figures!
Minister Campbell Accepts Our Meeting On Bus Services
We have received an e-mail today from the New South Wales Honorary Minster of Transport and Roads, Mr. David Campbell has accepted to meet our group within the next two weeks. He is only seeking to meet only 5 members of our group -which we feel is not enough to represent the whole area of Mount Druitt.
We will invite to the Mayor of Blacktown, Mr. Charlie Lowles, whom we respect as an upstanding community member of Mount Druitt and also in his role of Mayor of Blacktown.
We are still negotiating to provide 22 members to represent Mount Druitt And Surrounding Suburbs which has just on thirteen suburbs within the 2770 postcode:
Bidwill, Blackett, Dharruk, Emerton, Hebersham, Lethbridge Park, Minchinbury, Mount Druitt,
Mount Druitt Village, Shalvey, Tregear, Whalan, Willmot and surrounding suburb Marsden Park and Plumpton.
We will keeep you further informed!!!! This has come about from the hard work all our group members have done so far to bring our cause to recognition. A lot of community members and bus drivers said you'll never get your buses back - well we got back limited services 674 (former 755) via Bulolo Drive - that was only the start for us - I have known all along that one day the community will get success - this is a step in the right direction - a little late but it is here!
We will invite to the Mayor of Blacktown, Mr. Charlie Lowles, whom we respect as an upstanding community member of Mount Druitt and also in his role of Mayor of Blacktown.
We are still negotiating to provide 22 members to represent Mount Druitt And Surrounding Suburbs which has just on thirteen suburbs within the 2770 postcode:
Bidwill, Blackett, Dharruk, Emerton, Hebersham, Lethbridge Park, Minchinbury, Mount Druitt,
Mount Druitt Village, Shalvey, Tregear, Whalan, Willmot and surrounding suburb Marsden Park and Plumpton.
We will keeep you further informed!!!! This has come about from the hard work all our group members have done so far to bring our cause to recognition. A lot of community members and bus drivers said you'll never get your buses back - well we got back limited services 674 (former 755) via Bulolo Drive - that was only the start for us - I have known all along that one day the community will get success - this is a step in the right direction - a little late but it is here!
Patients Need Patience After Rehab To Catch Buses
Today I had to go for doctors appointment at Minchinbury Community Hospital. As I normally do, I promoted our cause and website and was instantly greet with a smile with the medical receptionist advised that the Rehabilitation area of the hospital has patients that have transport problems when they are released from rehabilitation. She said she would greatly give it to them.
I sat in the waiting room and she walk towards the Rehab. area and returned with thumbs up stating, 'They were pleased with the website and will look into it - they need help' and will also provide it to their provide it to patients.
So bus operaters and members of New South Wales Parliament and members of the Ministry of Transport And Infrastructure please look at helping these people, as we are concerned and passionate of our community members!
I sat in the waiting room and she walk towards the Rehab. area and returned with thumbs up stating, 'They were pleased with the website and will look into it - they need help' and will also provide it to their provide it to patients.
So bus operaters and members of New South Wales Parliament and members of the Ministry of Transport And Infrastructure please look at helping these people, as we are concerned and passionate of our community members!
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Informed About Our Website
As of yesterday, we can advise you that the following grops and individuals have been informed our website:
Hon. State Member for Londonderry, Mr Allan Shearan, Hon. State Member for Mount Druit. Mr Richard Amery, Hon. NSW Minister of Transport, Mr David Campbell, Hon. Member of Hawkesbury, Mr Ray Williams, Blacktown Mayor, Mayor Charlie Lowles, Blacktown Councillor Jacqueline Donaldson, Western Sydney Community Forum, Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, Planing Department of Busways, Busways Blacktown, Westbus Richmond/Windsor and Penrith, St.Marys -Star newspaper, Mount St Marys Standard Newspaper, Principals of all State and Catholic Schools within postcode 2770, Mount Druitt Village shops, Whalan Shops, CAG Mount Druitt and Mount Druitt Libruuary (on the Community book on nthe front of the desk), Hon Member for Chifley Roger Price and Minchinbury Community Hospital ansd Emerton Shops.
Hon. State Member for Londonderry, Mr Allan Shearan, Hon. State Member for Mount Druit. Mr Richard Amery, Hon. NSW Minister of Transport, Mr David Campbell, Hon. Member of Hawkesbury, Mr Ray Williams, Blacktown Mayor, Mayor Charlie Lowles, Blacktown Councillor Jacqueline Donaldson, Western Sydney Community Forum, Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, Planing Department of Busways, Busways Blacktown, Westbus Richmond/Windsor and Penrith, St.Marys -Star newspaper, Mount St Marys Standard Newspaper, Principals of all State and Catholic Schools within postcode 2770, Mount Druitt Village shops, Whalan Shops, CAG Mount Druitt and Mount Druitt Libruuary (on the Community book on nthe front of the desk), Hon Member for Chifley Roger Price and Minchinbury Community Hospital ansd Emerton Shops.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Change Of Doctors Due To Change Of Buses
Life styles have been changed to at least two male community members of Marsden Park whom used to go to Medical centre in Mount Druitt now go to Glendinning Doctors - Although there is a bus that they take for their small journey to these doctors from Plumpton Shops - they were wondering if they could get a direct bus from Marsden park there!!!!!
Fair Or Not Fares For Marsden Park
Community members in Marsden Park advised there are some commuters that have caught taxis since the commencement of the new bus time tables were introduced 11/10/2009. If buses are missed, then this opportunity arises due the length of time to wait for the next service.
Although it is difficult to get taxis in this semi rural area along Holingsworth Road, when they do arrive average costs of taxis reaching certain other main destinations are as follows:
to St Marys $35.00
to Mount Duitt $25.00
to Riverstone $17.00
to Plumpton $14.00
to Blacktown $30.00
These fares are only one way costs. What if some community members return home the same way on a return trip? Bus operators need to know they are losing patron's on these services and it is hard to get the patrons back again unless the bus operaters retain services that need to be retained as per 10/10/2009 bus time table.
At the end of the day the bus operaters will lose out with patrons if it is not changed and community will lose faith with all authorities that are involved in the decision process.
Although it is difficult to get taxis in this semi rural area along Holingsworth Road, when they do arrive average costs of taxis reaching certain other main destinations are as follows:
to St Marys $35.00
to Mount Duitt $25.00
to Riverstone $17.00
to Plumpton $14.00
to Blacktown $30.00
These fares are only one way costs. What if some community members return home the same way on a return trip? Bus operators need to know they are losing patron's on these services and it is hard to get the patrons back again unless the bus operaters retain services that need to be retained as per 10/10/2009 bus time table.
At the end of the day the bus operaters will lose out with patrons if it is not changed and community will lose faith with all authorities that are involved in the decision process.
Busways Will Help 756/757 Transferring Commuters
After speaking to Assist Depot Manager, Malcolm Ellwood, Busways Blacktown, has assured us that all Busways drivers for 756 and 757 routes have instructions to radio into the Blacktown Bus depot first before reaching Plumpton Shops (on all journeys). This ensures the connecting bus service is waiting to pick up the transferring commuters. and also elimnates missing connections.
So if anyone that travels this service has a situation where the driver doesnot adhere to these instructions - let us know and we would forward details to the approriate authorities or let Bus ways know directly!
So if anyone that travels this service has a situation where the driver doesnot adhere to these instructions - let us know and we would forward details to the approriate authorities or let Bus ways know directly!
757 Some Drivers Advise 'No More Bus Services To Mount Druitt'
It came apparently clear that when our group had met up with the residents in Marsden Park that if a new commuter gets on the bus to Plumpton, the bus drivers will advise that the 757 Service doesn't go to Mount Druitt Anymore.
WhiIe this is correct (that the 757 bus doesn't go to Mount Druitt anymore), some of the 757 drivers don't provide advice of the transfer of buses at Plumpton Shops to get to Mount Druitt. Some travelling passengers had to provide advise the new comer commuters of the transfer to 756 bus service at Plumpton Shops!
WhiIe this is correct (that the 757 bus doesn't go to Mount Druitt anymore), some of the 757 drivers don't provide advice of the transfer of buses at Plumpton Shops to get to Mount Druitt. Some travelling passengers had to provide advise the new comer commuters of the transfer to 756 bus service at Plumpton Shops!
Improved Services Would Bring Increased Patronage
One of the Marsden Park community members, Nick advised that since the bus services had changed 11/10/2009 his services had severely been altered for longer trips rather than shorter trips. His quick suggestion is for the NSW Government and bus operaters that service the Mount area to improve bus services and then you would increase patronage on all bus routes.
Early Bus Leaves Early While Filming At Marsden Park
Well today, whilst filming residents issues at Hollingsworth Road, Marsden Park had all witnessed a Busways bus arrived at 10.17am and left at 10.17am to go to Plumpton. It did not wait for 10.19am to pick up a few passengers that came on time to the bus stop on time 2 minutes means nothing to the drivers but means a lot to commuters they might miss the bus connection where there is only a two minute waiting time.
Both Debbie Robertson and myself were overwhelmed with each of the community members concerns. There would have been nearly 12 to 14 concerned community members that turned up. Right beside the caravan park complex - there is land being developed for employment development, in its early stages.
Marsden Park community members population within the caravan park is approximately 400 to 450 residents. Although they are worried about possible future developments - 'the shot in the arm' for them is the disturbance in transferring to different buses to get to and from Mount Druitt with the new bus service! Before, it was a one journey trip now it is a two journey trip.
It's funny that Sunday reverts back to one journey trip to Mount Druitt - no problems on that day - but every other day is not like easy Sundays bus survive for them. They want their 757 bus service returned to the hour;y service that was previously provided. Again this was an long standing service that has been servicing the community members for at least the last eighteen years!
Both Debbie Robertson and myself were overwhelmed with each of the community members concerns. There would have been nearly 12 to 14 concerned community members that turned up. Right beside the caravan park complex - there is land being developed for employment development, in its early stages.
Marsden Park community members population within the caravan park is approximately 400 to 450 residents. Although they are worried about possible future developments - 'the shot in the arm' for them is the disturbance in transferring to different buses to get to and from Mount Druitt with the new bus service! Before, it was a one journey trip now it is a two journey trip.
It's funny that Sunday reverts back to one journey trip to Mount Druitt - no problems on that day - but every other day is not like easy Sundays bus survive for them. They want their 757 bus service returned to the hour;y service that was previously provided. Again this was an long standing service that has been servicing the community members for at least the last eighteen years!
My Fathers Legacy
You know, when these timetables were implemented as from 11/10/2009, I momentarily had forgotten about my father whom was recently deceased on 13/9/2009, when we were petitioning at Whalan Shops.
My father didn't live in our area but came to Australia as a refuge was accepted and worked for quite a number of years as a tram conductor, bus driver , bus driver teacher and then sat and parsed third class Bus Inspectors Licence. He retired as the Inspector in charge a t Edgecliff Interchange - this is now replaced by Westfield shops at Edgeckiff.
Nothing to do with buses around the area but I feel that I am carrying on his legacy, something that I know he would be proud of! Thank you Dad!
My father didn't live in our area but came to Australia as a refuge was accepted and worked for quite a number of years as a tram conductor, bus driver , bus driver teacher and then sat and parsed third class Bus Inspectors Licence. He retired as the Inspector in charge a t Edgecliff Interchange - this is now replaced by Westfield shops at Edgeckiff.
Nothing to do with buses around the area but I feel that I am carrying on his legacy, something that I know he would be proud of! Thank you Dad!
Incorrect Replaced Bus Service for Lethbridge Park
Speaking to Richard from Lethbridge Park, advises that the community members he represents have been short-changed or should I say 'More expense to travel', with the new replaced bus service.
The Busways 755 bus services ran through to from Mount Druitt, Whalan, Emerton, Lethbridge Park (Copeland Road & Luxford Road) , Shalvey, Bidwill, Blackett, Hebersham, Oakhurst,, Plumpton, Glendinning, Dean Park, Marayong, Woodcroft and then onto Blacktown Shops. This service was replaced by the new Westbus 739 bus route tht goes from St Marys to North St Marys, Werrington, Werrington County, Ropes Crossing, Lethbridge Park Wilmott return to Lethbridsge Park, Tregear, Emerton (Omits Shalvey and Bidwill), Blackett, Dharruk, and to Mount Druitt Shops. So for Lethbridge Park conmmunity members to now travel to Blacktown they need to take the 759 bus into Mount Druitt Interchnage, walk to the 750, 754 or 756 bus stands to get the next bus to Blacktown or hop over to Mount Druitt train station to catch a train to Blacktown train station.What an inconvenience!
We can notice a trend that seems to happen with some services - they have been cut and then make sure you look after the new suburb 'Ropes Crossing'. Goes back to what we heard around the traps that the bus operaters have placed a last minute submission to cover 'Ropes Crossing' as the main shop was going to pull out of there if there was no transport infrastructure to cater for 'Ropes Crossing ' Community Again we do not deny nor condemn transport to this area but when the NSW Transport Minister has indicated there has been no reduction or increased buses in group one area. Well there was a dramatical change and pulled away from from suburbs to cater for another suburbs. So far we have bus route 780, 745 & 759 that travels to and from Ropes Crossing.
Getting back to the Lethbridge Park issue, Richard has advised that a majority of community memebers around Lethbridge Park would not travel to St Marys via Ropes Crossing for Shopping, it is more convenient to do shoppping at Emerton or mostly at Mount Druitt Shops. He is wondering why the NSW government has made it harder for members, whom enjoyed traveling to work by bus to Blacktown , when bus patronage on the morning weekday services would have been at least half full until approx 10.30am going to Blacktown Shops. Pensioners would have joined dthe services for shopping at Blacktown during the mornings adding the bus service patronage of 755. Going to Blacktown via the inwards trip to Mount Druitt and then catching a train from Mount Druitt to Blacktown may have been a longer process.
The second and most important issue is that the previous 755 service was apparently a regular 15 minute service on weekdays it appears the service continued from Mount Druitt to Blacktown, after Shalvey every half hour in early morning until after 11.22am where it appears it was approximately hourly from there on an hourly basis. Now with the new 759 Service has short changed commuter's as it runs approximately every half hour on week days.
Waiting time has increased thus frustrating commuter's - 'they'd rather get taxis as bus can not be depended on - always not running on time!'In fact Richard has advised me that the taxi industry has definitely increased patronage, undoubtedly around his area and most of his community - want what was taken away given back! Lethbridge Park Residents had their Busways 755 bus service route incorrectly replaced and ripped out of their suburbs - what they got is not 2what they want!
My question to the NSW Government is what happened to the 2 missing bus services that the Lethbridge Park residents now have? Answer is bring back the 755 bus route service for Lethbridge Park community members - problem solved!
The Busways 755 bus services ran through to from Mount Druitt, Whalan, Emerton, Lethbridge Park (Copeland Road & Luxford Road) , Shalvey, Bidwill, Blackett, Hebersham, Oakhurst,, Plumpton, Glendinning, Dean Park, Marayong, Woodcroft and then onto Blacktown Shops. This service was replaced by the new Westbus 739 bus route tht goes from St Marys to North St Marys, Werrington, Werrington County, Ropes Crossing, Lethbridge Park Wilmott return to Lethbridsge Park, Tregear, Emerton (Omits Shalvey and Bidwill), Blackett, Dharruk, and to Mount Druitt Shops. So for Lethbridge Park conmmunity members to now travel to Blacktown they need to take the 759 bus into Mount Druitt Interchnage, walk to the 750, 754 or 756 bus stands to get the next bus to Blacktown or hop over to Mount Druitt train station to catch a train to Blacktown train station.What an inconvenience!
We can notice a trend that seems to happen with some services - they have been cut and then make sure you look after the new suburb 'Ropes Crossing'. Goes back to what we heard around the traps that the bus operaters have placed a last minute submission to cover 'Ropes Crossing' as the main shop was going to pull out of there if there was no transport infrastructure to cater for 'Ropes Crossing ' Community Again we do not deny nor condemn transport to this area but when the NSW Transport Minister has indicated there has been no reduction or increased buses in group one area. Well there was a dramatical change and pulled away from from suburbs to cater for another suburbs. So far we have bus route 780, 745 & 759 that travels to and from Ropes Crossing.
Getting back to the Lethbridge Park issue, Richard has advised that a majority of community memebers around Lethbridge Park would not travel to St Marys via Ropes Crossing for Shopping, it is more convenient to do shoppping at Emerton or mostly at Mount Druitt Shops. He is wondering why the NSW government has made it harder for members, whom enjoyed traveling to work by bus to Blacktown , when bus patronage on the morning weekday services would have been at least half full until approx 10.30am going to Blacktown Shops. Pensioners would have joined dthe services for shopping at Blacktown during the mornings adding the bus service patronage of 755. Going to Blacktown via the inwards trip to Mount Druitt and then catching a train from Mount Druitt to Blacktown may have been a longer process.
The second and most important issue is that the previous 755 service was apparently a regular 15 minute service on weekdays it appears the service continued from Mount Druitt to Blacktown, after Shalvey every half hour in early morning until after 11.22am where it appears it was approximately hourly from there on an hourly basis. Now with the new 759 Service has short changed commuter's as it runs approximately every half hour on week days.
Waiting time has increased thus frustrating commuter's - 'they'd rather get taxis as bus can not be depended on - always not running on time!'In fact Richard has advised me that the taxi industry has definitely increased patronage, undoubtedly around his area and most of his community - want what was taken away given back! Lethbridge Park Residents had their Busways 755 bus service route incorrectly replaced and ripped out of their suburbs - what they got is not 2what they want!
My question to the NSW Government is what happened to the 2 missing bus services that the Lethbridge Park residents now have? Answer is bring back the 755 bus route service for Lethbridge Park community members - problem solved!
Community Members Still Questioning Deletion Of 755 Bus Service?
This the music is still sounding with our local community members, asking why the bus service was deleted (previously 763 bus route). Jason from Lethbridge Park explains as a young student how the bus service made his life easier.
We provide you the link to the 'Mount Druitt St Marys Standard - refer page 16 Letters to the Editor.
http://digitaledition.mtdruittstandard.com.au/
We provide you the link to the 'Mount Druitt St Marys Standard - refer page 16 Letters to the Editor.
http://digitaledition.mtdruittstandard.com.au/
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Strandred Neighbour - No 755 Bus Service Anymore!
A neighbour of mine Leonie, whom I hadn't spoken too for quite a while just advised myself of the circumstance that occured to her, on the day that the new time tables were implemented.
She is a disabled member of our community (walks with a cane), came back from Mount Druitt shops one day, after being dropped there and was thrown into a state of confusion at Mount Druitt Interchange. he didn't know which bus stand to get and which bus to get. Finally, she caught the new 780 bus route service and asked the driver to drop her off at the Bulolo Drive, so it was easier for her to walk home.
Well the driver said 'No,' and Leonie was dropped on the top of Luxford Road and Gasmata Crescent. Whalan. As she spoken to me today, she asked, 'Why did the NSW Government take out a service that was well patronised , a long standing service - it was pretty much full every day!' She asked me to keep on doing a good job. I replied by advising that the job is not just done by me there are a lot of people behind the seasons working hard and that have worked hard. The noise is still being created. I also added that she will know the day we all win and get our services back!
She is a disabled member of our community (walks with a cane), came back from Mount Druitt shops one day, after being dropped there and was thrown into a state of confusion at Mount Druitt Interchange. he didn't know which bus stand to get and which bus to get. Finally, she caught the new 780 bus route service and asked the driver to drop her off at the Bulolo Drive, so it was easier for her to walk home.
Well the driver said 'No,' and Leonie was dropped on the top of Luxford Road and Gasmata Crescent. Whalan. As she spoken to me today, she asked, 'Why did the NSW Government take out a service that was well patronised , a long standing service - it was pretty much full every day!' She asked me to keep on doing a good job. I replied by advising that the job is not just done by me there are a lot of people behind the seasons working hard and that have worked hard. The noise is still being created. I also added that she will know the day we all win and get our services back!
Affect of New Possible Shop/s
I remember just after the new time tables took place last year, one of our group members Ivy advised myself that the vacant block of land at the corner of Bulolo Drive and Tamaro Avenue was recently sold and there would be shop or shop development there. Now if the new owner of that block is aware that buses were being deleted and/or replaced with limited services (shopper hoppers), would they still continue with their business development? This site was a former Petrol station thus before development would proceed environment would have to be checked and cleared (which I heard sold watered down petrol - just rumours).
Time and time again Whalan businesses not just depend on local community members walking to the shops, some of them now even catch taxis to shops from their homes and they wait for commuters to come from buses and then they would purchase items for their every day use.
This also invites enquiries from Real estate agents that when they say 'property is close to transport' once the services have been deleted do they advertise 'Property is less close to transport' or omit the closeness to transport phrase!
Time and time again Whalan businesses not just depend on local community members walking to the shops, some of them now even catch taxis to shops from their homes and they wait for commuters to come from buses and then they would purchase items for their every day use.
This also invites enquiries from Real estate agents that when they say 'property is close to transport' once the services have been deleted do they advertise 'Property is less close to transport' or omit the closeness to transport phrase!
Bus Stops Upgraded Now Deleted Services
A lady community member I bumped into at Whalan Shops has ask me if we can answer this question: Why was the bus top on West of Popondetta Road near Woodstock Road ( around the corner from Halinda Street), upgraded a year ago and now bus services have been deleted now making it less being used as a bus stop - namely the bus service that was travelling there before was 755?
Although the services of 755 have been deleted there is a limited Busways Service number 745
But as there is no or no patronage apparently to Penrith from what residents have told me I can understand her question!
If anyone can answer this question more specifically please feel free to add further comment or e-mail to us.
Although the services of 755 have been deleted there is a limited Busways Service number 745
But as there is no or no patronage apparently to Penrith from what residents have told me I can understand her question!
If anyone can answer this question more specifically please feel free to add further comment or e-mail to us.
Infoline Increased Tranport Services And Travel Time
One concerned mother, community member around West of Popondetta Road Whalan had contacted the 'Infoline', when the new time tables were introduced and was immediately transferred to the bus operator that looked after former deleted bus service.
Now she had to provide special education at a private school at Kemps Creek, with the time table pre 11/10/09 - her children did commute on the 755 bus service got off at Mount Druitt Interchange and then changed for Kemps Creek Bus. This all sounds easy so far.
The representative bus operator that spoke to her provide the following advice for her school children: 'Your children can commute onn the 745 to St marys (that runs along west of Popondetta Road) get off at St Marys train Station and hop on a train at St. Marys train station to Mount Druitt train station. Then your children can get the bus to Kemps Creek School!'
This is where customer service sometimes is not customer service. Here the two children had to obtain one extra mode of transport - thus allowing 15 minutes extra traveling time each way per day for travelling time as well - when if this bus operator realised around the corner at Luxford Road there was another bus operator providing service to Mount Druitt or even on Woodstock Road where the same bus operator providing the advice had another bus service to Mount Druitt.
Now she had to provide special education at a private school at Kemps Creek, with the time table pre 11/10/09 - her children did commute on the 755 bus service got off at Mount Druitt Interchange and then changed for Kemps Creek Bus. This all sounds easy so far.
The representative bus operator that spoke to her provide the following advice for her school children: 'Your children can commute onn the 745 to St marys (that runs along west of Popondetta Road) get off at St Marys train Station and hop on a train at St. Marys train station to Mount Druitt train station. Then your children can get the bus to Kemps Creek School!'
This is where customer service sometimes is not customer service. Here the two children had to obtain one extra mode of transport - thus allowing 15 minutes extra traveling time each way per day for travelling time as well - when if this bus operator realised around the corner at Luxford Road there was another bus operator providing service to Mount Druitt or even on Woodstock Road where the same bus operator providing the advice had another bus service to Mount Druitt.
Struggling Shoppers
Steve one middle-aged community member around Mount Druitt, just recently had see an elderly community member struggle to carry heaps of grocery shopping, from being dropped off a bus from Mount Druitt at a doubled-laned road. According to Steve, the load that the elderly community member was carrying would have been two shopping trolley loads. Steve being a good Samaritan rushed to this elderly community members aid found a vacant trolley lying around and pushed the full trolley for 10 minutes, whilst carrying other shopping bags in his hands as well to to this community members home.
Before, the elderly community member just lived around the corner from the bus stop that used to have bus services taking him to Mount Druitt . What was that bus stop? Answer: Corner of Popondetta Road and Omati Streets, Whalan.
Thank for Steve's instant caring thought - i wish there was a thousand Steve's around the area as this is a common occurrence but not everyone gets help! The elderly community member asked for his previous 755 bus route to be returned to make life easier.
A famous previous Prime Minister's ssaying was .'Life wasn't meant to be easy!'
How true this is!!!!!
Before, the elderly community member just lived around the corner from the bus stop that used to have bus services taking him to Mount Druitt . What was that bus stop? Answer: Corner of Popondetta Road and Omati Streets, Whalan.
Thank for Steve's instant caring thought - i wish there was a thousand Steve's around the area as this is a common occurrence but not everyone gets help! The elderly community member asked for his previous 755 bus route to be returned to make life easier.
A famous previous Prime Minister's ssaying was .'Life wasn't meant to be easy!'
How true this is!!!!!
Mount Druitt Needs Community Transport Review Forum
When you look a at macro economics of NSW Governments changes bus services in Group One area (includes Mount Druitt suburbs) - macro community forums were set up - nothing at a local level to involve local community members. Yes, Blacktown City Council has a Transport Committee etc - I remember the Mayor of Blacktown City Council advised myself 3 months ago, he was shocked when the bus changes went ahead and Blacktown City Council wasn't notified - now on behalf of Blacktown City Council he is lumbered with an enormous bill to build new bus shelters for new bus stops. I don't know if old bus shelters are being recycled or whatever.
We need to hold a forum with the NSW Ministry Of Transport and thrash out and resolve transport issues including routes services - community consultation before any change should have been implemented, If there would be a drastic negative change then the NSW Ministry Of Transport should arrange a community directly within that community to explain issues, concerns and working out resolutions. Not hide behind the screen , made decisions and wait for public outcry. This needs to be done in conjunction with bus operaters - during the bus review times.
The then next issue is to notify the community. We discovered as a group not all community members have direct access to computers and/or Internet. So a letter box drop would be required, notification via local press and radio stations, notification on all bus stops and maybe the Ministry Of Transport would like the to supply the community a news letter describing any passable changes but requesting for feedback first, before implementation!
Our group members would be able to represent all community members - thus you would be able to voice your opinion through these members, direct to our e-mail or comments on our website.
In the near twenty years I have lived in this area - the bus changes we had were the worst we very had. they were so dramatical and fault lies within the NSW Government as how the changes were implemented, notified to community members and the reaction to responses to what the community requires seems very like a very slow process. They are quick to make changes!!!
This is why we need a Mount Druitt And Surrounding suburbs Community Transport Review Forum to communicate with the NSW Ministry of Transport and Bus Operaters (if they turn up)!
Please let us know if you agree - comments will be much appreciated!
We need to hold a forum with the NSW Ministry Of Transport and thrash out and resolve transport issues including routes services - community consultation before any change should have been implemented, If there would be a drastic negative change then the NSW Ministry Of Transport should arrange a community directly within that community to explain issues, concerns and working out resolutions. Not hide behind the screen , made decisions and wait for public outcry. This needs to be done in conjunction with bus operaters - during the bus review times.
The then next issue is to notify the community. We discovered as a group not all community members have direct access to computers and/or Internet. So a letter box drop would be required, notification via local press and radio stations, notification on all bus stops and maybe the Ministry Of Transport would like the to supply the community a news letter describing any passable changes but requesting for feedback first, before implementation!
Our group members would be able to represent all community members - thus you would be able to voice your opinion through these members, direct to our e-mail or comments on our website.
In the near twenty years I have lived in this area - the bus changes we had were the worst we very had. they were so dramatical and fault lies within the NSW Government as how the changes were implemented, notified to community members and the reaction to responses to what the community requires seems very like a very slow process. They are quick to make changes!!!
This is why we need a Mount Druitt And Surrounding suburbs Community Transport Review Forum to communicate with the NSW Ministry of Transport and Bus Operaters (if they turn up)!
Please let us know if you agree - comments will be much appreciated!
Free Shuttle Bus For Deleted Services!
If you look or contact the NSW Government Infoline 131500 or check their website, you will notice that the Sydney Central Business District has a free city bus route 555 that travels from circular Quay to Central Station. Another free service is the bus 55 in Wollongong. Parramatta City Council has a free half hourly service travelling around the main Parramatta City - near North Parramatta and return to Parramatta train station.
Mount Druitt has nothing like this. I propose what is required is a return bus service that takes you through from Mount Druitt,o North Rooty Hill, Plumpton Shops, Oakhurst, Bidwill, Shalvey, Lethbridge Park, Blackett, Emerton, Whalan and return to Mount Druitt. If this is run every half hour - this could make more people leave cars at home. Why would you use petrol when you would have a free service? Something for community members to think about. You don't hear this type of suggestion coming from the bus operaters (when they are subsidised by the NSW Government).
Overall less pollution, reduced traffic congestion within traffic lights, less traffic incidents of traffic accident, less cars on the road , reduced overall fuel comsumption, incereased job opportunties for bus drivers and healthier lifestyles as this will promote walking to and from bus stops, shops thus enhanced lifestyles for more commuters which can be a plus for overall public transport. As to the think tanking part -which suburbs bus drives through first a task force can be created to work with the NSW department of transport or we all lobby Blacktown Council.
Once the government fixes up it's deleted services and returns them to the community`, this can be a 'Sorry, I didn't mean to do it?" present to the community - patronage should then be encourage by word of mouth to all community members - maybe this bus route could be called the 755 free community bus?
Website information from NSW Transport Infoline regarding free Sydney City Free Shuttle bus route service 555 & Wollongong 55 Free Gong Shuttle
http://www.131500.com.au/faresandpasses/cbdshuttle.asp
Website information on Parramatta City Council free City bus services: http://www.parracity.nsw.gov.au/traffic_and_transport/transport/the_loop
Mount Druitt has nothing like this. I propose what is required is a return bus service that takes you through from Mount Druitt,o North Rooty Hill, Plumpton Shops, Oakhurst, Bidwill, Shalvey, Lethbridge Park, Blackett, Emerton, Whalan and return to Mount Druitt. If this is run every half hour - this could make more people leave cars at home. Why would you use petrol when you would have a free service? Something for community members to think about. You don't hear this type of suggestion coming from the bus operaters (when they are subsidised by the NSW Government).
Overall less pollution, reduced traffic congestion within traffic lights, less traffic incidents of traffic accident, less cars on the road , reduced overall fuel comsumption, incereased job opportunties for bus drivers and healthier lifestyles as this will promote walking to and from bus stops, shops thus enhanced lifestyles for more commuters which can be a plus for overall public transport. As to the think tanking part -which suburbs bus drives through first a task force can be created to work with the NSW department of transport or we all lobby Blacktown Council.
Once the government fixes up it's deleted services and returns them to the community`, this can be a 'Sorry, I didn't mean to do it?" present to the community - patronage should then be encourage by word of mouth to all community members - maybe this bus route could be called the 755 free community bus?
Website information from NSW Transport Infoline regarding free Sydney City Free Shuttle bus route service 555 & Wollongong 55 Free Gong Shuttle
http://www.131500.com.au/faresandpasses/cbdshuttle.asp
Website information on Parramatta City Council free City bus services: http://www.parracity.nsw.gov.au/traffic_and_transport/transport/the_loop
We should all start to lobby each Hon. State Members of Parliament and even our Local Blacktown Councilors for a joint free Mount Druitt Free City bus shuttle services!
Mount Druitt Village Shops Affected
Anne, one of our group members travels to Mount Druitt Village from Whalan and spoke to a prominent business lady in this area and didn't realise she was doing her own research of the affect of bus services since the new time tables were introduced.
What seems to be the problem here is the shop owners are saying that they have found there are hardly any buses taking community members to Mount Druitt Village. With this seems to provide a definate neglect from the NSW Government to provide better bus services to get the elderly community to Mount Druitt Village.
The reduction of bus services prevents the elderly community from participating and discourages people to have faith in these bus services. Sometimes they wait days for lift from another neighbour to take them to shops or pay for cabs fares! Is this fair?
Although there is the 739v service that is going to Mount Druitt Village this is a very limited service!
Name withheld - Shop owner
What seems to be the problem here is the shop owners are saying that they have found there are hardly any buses taking community members to Mount Druitt Village. With this seems to provide a definate neglect from the NSW Government to provide better bus services to get the elderly community to Mount Druitt Village.
The reduction of bus services prevents the elderly community from participating and discourages people to have faith in these bus services. Sometimes they wait days for lift from another neighbour to take them to shops or pay for cabs fares! Is this fair?
Although there is the 739v service that is going to Mount Druitt Village this is a very limited service!
Name withheld - Shop owner
Carol's Complaint Being Just Being Processed!!!!
Carol, one of our community members holding the flag for the 755 bus route, west of Popondetta road has advised myself of an experience she has experienced with the complaints processs, in regards to the 755 bus service beiung deleted from Popondetta Road.
When carol discovered that the 755 bus services were being deleted and replaced by a bus service along Popondetta that doesn't go to Mount Druitt, yet obe direction it goes to Castle Hill and St Marys the other direction. She had to do something about it!
She organised with Anne from this area over a hundred or more signatories for our petition and also made a phone call to the NSW Transport Infoline 131500, made a complaint regarding the services being deleted. Now this was in second to third week in October 2009.
She received a phone call about 2 to 3 days before Christmas last year that the complaint had been received and was being processed. Well, I suppose 2 and half months to process the complaint is not too bad - it should take two and half years to get a response on this basis!!! She will keep us informed as she has got her heart within her local community's interest.
When carol discovered that the 755 bus services were being deleted and replaced by a bus service along Popondetta that doesn't go to Mount Druitt, yet obe direction it goes to Castle Hill and St Marys the other direction. She had to do something about it!
She organised with Anne from this area over a hundred or more signatories for our petition and also made a phone call to the NSW Transport Infoline 131500, made a complaint regarding the services being deleted. Now this was in second to third week in October 2009.
She received a phone call about 2 to 3 days before Christmas last year that the complaint had been received and was being processed. Well, I suppose 2 and half months to process the complaint is not too bad - it should take two and half years to get a response on this basis!!! She will keep us informed as she has got her heart within her local community's interest.
Not Much Of A Happy Birthday!
Lee from Bidwill, one of our group members has got her mother's 87th Birthday in 2 days time and wanted to give her mother a baked birthday cake - so she walked to Bidwill and in the Bottle shop there is a small grocery store ( where locals can purchase items). The store didn't have any eggs. So for Lee would normally travel to Emerton Shop to shop, but doesn't have a bus that takes her there.
As a pensioner, she had to pay for a bus fare to Mount Druitt $2.50 but didn't have the money to pay for it - so she returned home. Her mother won't have much of of birthday due the changes of bus services and the deletion of the 762 bus route. Lee advised the 755 bus route would have helped her as well, as it went went through Lethdridge Park through to Emerton! Every days she asks why after a long time that NSW Government has changed the bus services to make her life harder?
Thank you NSW Government for making Lee's day and her mother's birthday the way it will be, by deleting these vital bus services!
As a pensioner, she had to pay for a bus fare to Mount Druitt $2.50 but didn't have the money to pay for it - so she returned home. Her mother won't have much of of birthday due the changes of bus services and the deletion of the 762 bus route. Lee advised the 755 bus route would have helped her as well, as it went went through Lethdridge Park through to Emerton! Every days she asks why after a long time that NSW Government has changed the bus services to make her life harder?
Thank you NSW Government for making Lee's day and her mother's birthday the way it will be, by deleting these vital bus services!
Support Seeked from NSW Government Ministry
Today, I have have made contact with a representative from the NSW Department of Transport and Infrastructure, they are aware of issues raised by the local community members and are looking at resolving issues raised via local community newspapers. signed petitions, community meetings held on 7th November 2009 at Whalan and 28th November 2009 at Mount Druitt and complaints received within the department.
It is suggested that representations from our group will meet with this representative to discuss possible future bus changes to better the bus infrastructure. We were informed that there is a bus review currenlty happening and our next review will be held prior to April 2010.
You can be assured that we will raise all issues concerning all of the Mount Druitt And Surrounding Suburbs that have affected all community members. We will also request the retaining of current services that community member's are happy with as well.
Name withheld
It is suggested that representations from our group will meet with this representative to discuss possible future bus changes to better the bus infrastructure. We were informed that there is a bus review currenlty happening and our next review will be held prior to April 2010.
You can be assured that we will raise all issues concerning all of the Mount Druitt And Surrounding Suburbs that have affected all community members. We will also request the retaining of current services that community member's are happy with as well.
Name withheld
Monday, January 11, 2010
Is Minister of Transport Ready To Meet Us?
From the Community meeting that was held on 28th November 2009, the overwhelming eighty to ninety community members that met under the hot shade of the trees at the centre ground of Dawson Mall, wanted us to continue with our cause. Continue and go to National Press and meet with the Transport minister with our petitions. Well we have reach statewide press so far, we are doing collective filming of around the area, Whalan will be completed this afternoon, Marsden Park Thursday, Mount Druitt South, Blackett, Shalvey and Bidwill very soon as well!
We have sent an e-mail to The NSW Minister of Transport, Mr David Campbell, on 7th December 2009, and recently followed up last week as well chasing up an invitation of 22 members to represent Mount Druitt And Surrounding Suburbs and present our petitions to him. So far no response - there has been whispers from NSW Sate Members of Parliament that the NSW Minister of Transport will only meet 4 members of our community. Personally that is not a well representation of our area and we still sticking in him meeting him at NSW Parliament House or around Mount Druitt. We are still waiting for a response!!! We might get a response before the next transport annual review!!!!
We have got audios from Radio 2GB from Alan Jones, Hon, Member from Hawkesbury, Ray Williams and between Alana Jones and New Premier Christina Kenneally. So things are on the go with us, we haven't stopped and we won't stop looking after the community's concerns on the local buses.
We shall not be moved by the deleted bus services!
We have sent an e-mail to The NSW Minister of Transport, Mr David Campbell, on 7th December 2009, and recently followed up last week as well chasing up an invitation of 22 members to represent Mount Druitt And Surrounding Suburbs and present our petitions to him. So far no response - there has been whispers from NSW Sate Members of Parliament that the NSW Minister of Transport will only meet 4 members of our community. Personally that is not a well representation of our area and we still sticking in him meeting him at NSW Parliament House or around Mount Druitt. We are still waiting for a response!!! We might get a response before the next transport annual review!!!!
We have got audios from Radio 2GB from Alan Jones, Hon, Member from Hawkesbury, Ray Williams and between Alana Jones and New Premier Christina Kenneally. So things are on the go with us, we haven't stopped and we won't stop looking after the community's concerns on the local buses.
We shall not be moved by the deleted bus services!
Do Bus Drivers Run Their Companies?
About 2 weeks ago one gentle that wanted to get to Blackett/Emerton area was confused when he reached Mount Druitt, got on the Busways 758 as the elderly bus driver advised the gentleman to to get this bus.
Traveling on the bus, the man was saying how bad it was to change bus services and confuse him - He asked who was the decision maker? I explained my position with our group and that everyone is finger pointing each other - Bus operaters blame the NSW Government, The NSW Government blames NSW Ministery of Transport and Bus Operaters , The NSW Ministery of Transport blames the bus operaters as they are the ones requesting these route changes.
In practice what happens in our area : bus operaters place their request for bus services - Ministry of transport ratifies these decisions via an annual Transport Review Panel - which is then agreed to by the entire NSW parliamentary members. So who is to blame for changes work this out yourself, now!
Anyway, the bus driver overheard this conversation and said from what he heard from the NSW Government and bus operaters that the community will never get their buses back! I advised that is ridiculous to foreclose on matter before being decoded on! The driver didn't care much and the commuter was upset about the drivers comments as it was said in a way that you felt the community has no say - maybe the bus driver runs the bus company not the managers! We do know he know that he runs the bus he is driving!
Let's tell each of our bus drivers that we want the old services back - they need to let their managers how we all feel!!!! They might get sick of us says it but we sick enough of the services being deleted from under our noes!
Traveling on the bus, the man was saying how bad it was to change bus services and confuse him - He asked who was the decision maker? I explained my position with our group and that everyone is finger pointing each other - Bus operaters blame the NSW Government, The NSW Government blames NSW Ministery of Transport and Bus Operaters , The NSW Ministery of Transport blames the bus operaters as they are the ones requesting these route changes.
In practice what happens in our area : bus operaters place their request for bus services - Ministry of transport ratifies these decisions via an annual Transport Review Panel - which is then agreed to by the entire NSW parliamentary members. So who is to blame for changes work this out yourself, now!
Anyway, the bus driver overheard this conversation and said from what he heard from the NSW Government and bus operaters that the community will never get their buses back! I advised that is ridiculous to foreclose on matter before being decoded on! The driver didn't care much and the commuter was upset about the drivers comments as it was said in a way that you felt the community has no say - maybe the bus driver runs the bus company not the managers! We do know he know that he runs the bus he is driving!
Let's tell each of our bus drivers that we want the old services back - they need to let their managers how we all feel!!!! They might get sick of us says it but we sick enough of the services being deleted from under our noes!
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