I personally am astounded, surprised and most importantly very excited about our new future! Ever since we have lobbied hard for the bus commuters around Mount Druit, we haven't lobbied hard enough (as far as I am concerned) but we got back 2 services that are both incomplete. As we did this we touched into other Transport issues that other commuters may have had issues with or thought of suggestions to improve.
This is were our one group will get involved, moving from a bus transport group to a transport community group that has linkage in all areas of transport from local Blacktown City Councillors, to Blacktown City Transport Officers to Hon. State members of Parliament, to local bus operaters ( who are now coming to the party), NSW Rail Corp Cumberland Line Manager, to support from the local Railcorp Station Staff.
I personally have met Dimitri Hondros and he was such a welcoming 'knight in shining armour', meeting him at Mount Druitt Train Station one morning on the way to work, I was always wanting to meet him. He was the same as well - funny know as I was a chairperson of a bus group and he was a manager of a railway line. Two extremes meeting to make one calming peace keeper for transport. We have been hitting brick walls with buses and then out in the open comes trains wanting us to assist them.
Although I stated that we were looking to become a transport group - I didn't realise my dream for us has come true and I must say the entire group has put in 100 per cent effort in choosing a right name. As from 17/11/2010 we are not any more Save Our Bus Services, Mount Druitt And Surrounding Suburbs. Yet in saying this we are not letting go of the hard issues we are fighting for return of weekend services extended bus service to return bus services imcomplete and the complete back of 'Blake's Way!
We passed a Constitution that was accepted by the group with important amendments. We are looking to officially start the group around 26th February 2010, we sill invite commuters from the community to join for a minimal fee and participate in all areas of 'making a Difference' in all forms of public transport.
Please keep an eye on the new Blog spot that we will have and on this note we gave 'Goodbye' to all all readers of this blog Spot!
Monday, November 22, 2010
Sunday, November 14, 2010
We Are Pleased To announce An Inniative To Reduce Youths Walking Around Streets
Midnight Baskett is looking at kicking off in Mount Druitt on 16th November 2010 at Emerton Leisure Centre, Emerton 7-9pm for more info contact John Dacey 98352970 or 0409747412 or john@mtdruittcommunityministry.org.au
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Sad for Save Our Bus Services but Glory Days For new Mount Druitt Area Transport Users Group
Yes, that is right! Today my proposal to expand our group to a community based transport lobby group was welcomed by each group member today. A unanimous decision was made for us to start a new transport lobby group covering all of Mount Druitt. This will enable train, taxi cycling users to be involved in the transport infrastructure decisions that affect all community members and provide better efficient transport around.
Although this decision has been made, we are all search for new group name and branding. Any assistance from the community will be appreciated. we will advise further - this is a step in the right direction - my understanding we will be able to handle this as we will look at it being fully constituted.
Our next meeting on 17th will resolve this issue and our constitution will set us for the future.
Although this decision has been made, we are all search for new group name and branding. Any assistance from the community will be appreciated. we will advise further - this is a step in the right direction - my understanding we will be able to handle this as we will look at it being fully constituted.
Our next meeting on 17th will resolve this issue and our constitution will set us for the future.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Great News For Save Our Bus Services Mount Druitt And Surrounding Suburbs And The Community
I have struck gold with a representative from Transport NSW that actually listens, hears and responds. I dropped in unannounced today to meet this Representative and all I can say is complete gratitude - this represent will know who this person is (and doesn't want us to disclose their identity).
I must admit, I did speak to this representative before and my eyes, ears and heart went elsewhere the last year or so. Searching for local assistance from Local councillors, community representative and community members who are members of Labor, support their local members and attending their political meetings. I believe that we are not much liked in the community by the eyes, ears and heart of the NSW Government elected representatives but that is life.
Issues spoken (with this representative) covered a lot of areas from disabled bus services to localised local issues even to new bus ideas that are being used to improve the bus services. What was also discussed was No major changes expected around bus services ( which is surprising with a State Election coming near) except a minor change with 758 will be going through Ropers Crossing - although Blacktown City Council has placed 'bus only' lanes within the last month - this will be obsolete with the intended new bus service. The Bus only lanes were in the original Development Approval.
The Transport NSW Representative has advised will be looking forward to look at extending
Busways 739 service to Blacktown and accommodating other bus services - may look at limited extended 755 bus service to Blacktown from Shalvey. At present bus operaters are stating because the new multiple tickets can be used on various transports to get to destination this should be sufficient but Transport is there to ensure there is transport to get to important most used destinations.
In saying this - the representative was keen to look at Blake's Way and in doing we are asking Blake if he would like to present his report to the representative - we will give you feed back in due time.
On the futuristic way Transport NSW is looking to introduce 'PTIBS' (Priority Transport Information Bus Stops or similar) - This will provide great customer service information directing to commuters owning a mobile phone waiting for a bus that hasn't arrived. Commuters will be able to ' SMS' their bus stop number - ( Bus stops number will be either located on the bus stop or obtained on a map from Transport NSW) - they will then in turn receive a return 'SMS' message advising them of the whereabouts of that particular bus service. Bus stop Numbers provided may start with the suburbs post and numbered from there on . For example Mount Druitt 2770.......
The downside of this are the commuters that do not have mobile phones will not be able to benefit from this and it is not yet know if it will be a free service or small charge. It has been trialled with State Transit Authority and Busways are looking to be the first ones to use it. We suggest to Transport NSW that mobile phones that returned to mobile telephone suppliers that receive old mobile phones may consider donating these to the community that doesn't have one!
There is another electronic future device being used called a 'transponder' - although it will not necessarily be noticed by the commuter it may increase the chance of a commuter hoping on a last arrived service reaching the destination a little bit improved or better. What is it - is an electronic device placed on all buses and when reaching traffic lights it will notice the arrival time of the bus and if running late will change the traffic lights to 'Green' and 'Go,go,go!' - completing reducing waiting time - unless their is a bus stop directly after the lights ( not usually).
It was advised that there may be issues with buses during school vacations bus running early or late either way of the bus stop time table - this will then revert back to normal time table bus runs after these periods .
An interesting suggestion was that Transport NSW would be interested in seeing Blake's Way and will assist him with the mapping of bus routes for presentation purposes. Also for a negative issue within the community they would like to see the rock throwing report that our group member Wayne Lu has presented to us - they are aware that at least there are 2 incidents per day report back to Transport NSW in the Blacktown City Council LGA.
We believe both operaters have different polices regarding incidents caused under their "Standard Operating Proceedures':
Busways - Diversion away the hot spot and only drive through after a Police Safety Report and this could be on same day.
Westbus - diversion away for one day and recommence next day after a Police Safety Report.
Again, it was suggested that if anyone has any issues to ring 131500 for any issues, compliments and feedback to assist the smooth running of transport infrastructure around the area.
Well what more can I say - I was left dumbfounded - the drinking water well has been found - next is the gold nugget!
I must admit, I did speak to this representative before and my eyes, ears and heart went elsewhere the last year or so. Searching for local assistance from Local councillors, community representative and community members who are members of Labor, support their local members and attending their political meetings. I believe that we are not much liked in the community by the eyes, ears and heart of the NSW Government elected representatives but that is life.
Issues spoken (with this representative) covered a lot of areas from disabled bus services to localised local issues even to new bus ideas that are being used to improve the bus services. What was also discussed was No major changes expected around bus services ( which is surprising with a State Election coming near) except a minor change with 758 will be going through Ropers Crossing - although Blacktown City Council has placed 'bus only' lanes within the last month - this will be obsolete with the intended new bus service. The Bus only lanes were in the original Development Approval.
The Transport NSW Representative has advised will be looking forward to look at extending
Busways 739 service to Blacktown and accommodating other bus services - may look at limited extended 755 bus service to Blacktown from Shalvey. At present bus operaters are stating because the new multiple tickets can be used on various transports to get to destination this should be sufficient but Transport is there to ensure there is transport to get to important most used destinations.
In saying this - the representative was keen to look at Blake's Way and in doing we are asking Blake if he would like to present his report to the representative - we will give you feed back in due time.
On the futuristic way Transport NSW is looking to introduce 'PTIBS' (Priority Transport Information Bus Stops or similar) - This will provide great customer service information directing to commuters owning a mobile phone waiting for a bus that hasn't arrived. Commuters will be able to ' SMS' their bus stop number - ( Bus stops number will be either located on the bus stop or obtained on a map from Transport NSW) - they will then in turn receive a return 'SMS' message advising them of the whereabouts of that particular bus service. Bus stop Numbers provided may start with the suburbs post and numbered from there on . For example Mount Druitt 2770.......
The downside of this are the commuters that do not have mobile phones will not be able to benefit from this and it is not yet know if it will be a free service or small charge. It has been trialled with State Transit Authority and Busways are looking to be the first ones to use it. We suggest to Transport NSW that mobile phones that returned to mobile telephone suppliers that receive old mobile phones may consider donating these to the community that doesn't have one!
There is another electronic future device being used called a 'transponder' - although it will not necessarily be noticed by the commuter it may increase the chance of a commuter hoping on a last arrived service reaching the destination a little bit improved or better. What is it - is an electronic device placed on all buses and when reaching traffic lights it will notice the arrival time of the bus and if running late will change the traffic lights to 'Green' and 'Go,go,go!' - completing reducing waiting time - unless their is a bus stop directly after the lights ( not usually).
It was advised that there may be issues with buses during school vacations bus running early or late either way of the bus stop time table - this will then revert back to normal time table bus runs after these periods .
An interesting suggestion was that Transport NSW would be interested in seeing Blake's Way and will assist him with the mapping of bus routes for presentation purposes. Also for a negative issue within the community they would like to see the rock throwing report that our group member Wayne Lu has presented to us - they are aware that at least there are 2 incidents per day report back to Transport NSW in the Blacktown City Council LGA.
We believe both operaters have different polices regarding incidents caused under their "Standard Operating Proceedures':
Busways - Diversion away the hot spot and only drive through after a Police Safety Report and this could be on same day.
Westbus - diversion away for one day and recommence next day after a Police Safety Report.
Again, it was suggested that if anyone has any issues to ring 131500 for any issues, compliments and feedback to assist the smooth running of transport infrastructure around the area.
Well what more can I say - I was left dumbfounded - the drinking water well has been found - next is the gold nugget!
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Save Our Bus Services Mount Druitt And Surrounding Regrouping From Blacktown Transport Forum - Ready For Bus Review Next Year
We will be meeting thie week to regroup and discuss bus services for the future. We will also refresh from the Blacktown Transport Forum, held at Blacktown Council.
We will be meeting at Rutherglan Community Centre Blackett this Saturday at 9am.
We will be meeting at Rutherglan Community Centre Blackett this Saturday at 9am.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
WSTPU Policy Forum Takes Shape
Saturday Week, 13th November 2010, is a double whammy for three of us in our group. We have a group meeting at Rutherglen Community Centre commencing 9am - basically outcome of Blacktown Transport Forum and being prepared for future bus review due early next year.
Then Angie, Shane and myself will be heading to the reformed WSPTU Policy Forum/Meeting, where this will be the thrust of motions coming up from group to better and improve transport services and infrastructure around Western Sydney.
Our aim is to be a voice for the community think, discuss, negotiate and act as part of a Western Sydney Community promoting a good cause for Transport. That Transport stake holders not only listen to us but act proactively to ensure all community needs at not just met and promote more users and commuters to use Public transport, with positive outcomes.
I will ask Shane and Angie to present the 'Rock throwing Report' keeping in mind all the wonderful work Wayne has doing. One of our brilliant volunteer workers. he takes negativeness with pride and looks at the positiveness that could have been done.
I am so proud of all our group members that have represented the community and still represent the community, we are not a giving up group, we are there and it appears we will be there for the community for a long time. I hope that if anything happens to me one day that our flag will be carried higher into the skies of Western Sydney reflecting the changes that we want in Western Sydney.
Please note venue has been changed - please contact Debbie Robertson for further deatsils
Then Angie, Shane and myself will be heading to the reformed WSPTU Policy Forum/Meeting, where this will be the thrust of motions coming up from group to better and improve transport services and infrastructure around Western Sydney.
Our aim is to be a voice for the community think, discuss, negotiate and act as part of a Western Sydney Community promoting a good cause for Transport. That Transport stake holders not only listen to us but act proactively to ensure all community needs at not just met and promote more users and commuters to use Public transport, with positive outcomes.
I will ask Shane and Angie to present the 'Rock throwing Report' keeping in mind all the wonderful work Wayne has doing. One of our brilliant volunteer workers. he takes negativeness with pride and looks at the positiveness that could have been done.
I am so proud of all our group members that have represented the community and still represent the community, we are not a giving up group, we are there and it appears we will be there for the community for a long time. I hope that if anything happens to me one day that our flag will be carried higher into the skies of Western Sydney reflecting the changes that we want in Western Sydney.
Please note venue has been changed - please contact Debbie Robertson for further deatsils
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Outcome of Blacktown City Council, Public Transport Forum Meeting 35
Yesterday, I was a new attendee at the 'BCC PTMF' and found it to be a great vocal point to air Transport issues concerning residence of Blacktown City Council.
I must admit there would have been at lease 30 attendees (stake holders) at the meeting, all of relevant interest. From Westbus and Busways Operators, other community groups, representation from BCC Youth Councilor, Blacktown Train Station Manager, bicycle community groups, representation from the taxi council , WSPTU and various other interest groups.
Meeting was chaired by Councillor Pembleton, after an interesting display of the railway duplication line at Richmond and showing the Quakers Hill Train Station development, council was council was concerned of the TCA movement of the footbridge at the station. There was also discussion of Blacktown car park to be developed on the First Avenue side of Blacktown Station, and discussion of St Marys Train Station, and mention of a Mount Druitt Train station in progress but not for discussion as yet - my question to the TCA was with the high congestion of bus traffic inn the Bus interchange has there been provisions to expand the bus interchange with the car park in a development process?
I was told environmental impact studies will be done etc - but I don't think they understood what I meant - at this time the Mayor left the Forum.
We then had various discussion about where has there been youth input in these car parks decision process ( as adults make these decisions) - and I think think went over the TCA head as an answer.
Then came my presentation which I had the main speech and dot points that I was going to and from, leaving myself to introduce 'Blake's Way'.
Blake went through reading routes 716 to 800 and also T ( transit way services). Questioned were raised regarding any proper maps - Blake advised no as the other maps he had would represent confusion - Rudi from BCC advised that the bus operators could assist him with mapping program etc. Also what was asked how much Blake being paid for this he answered nothing.
When bus issues came up, I raised the issue of interaction/communication between Train Stations and Bus operators/drivers: that is especially when trains arrive there is a three to four minute walk for commuters to reach bus service waiting at bus stands - if you are not a fast walker - the bus will leave before you reach there - leaving half an hour for next service. Rudi advised this has been addressed to both parties at other BCC PTMF's. It seems like it hasn't been followed up - I will raise this at a WSTPT.
Pauline from our group discussed her bus issues which claims ther is hourly services and although some of the early bus services happen, it has been getting better but feels she is not being heard.
Then Cathy Williams advised of real case studies showing from transport website how long it takes for commuters from their home to Mount Druitt Hospital - response from Westbus was that it is not their issue that the Hospital was built outside the hub of Mount Druitt.
Finally, was discussion of the next BCC PTMF and it was proposed that there be a one issue ( with a resolution) meeting and this is discussed by stakeholders - I brought up the relevance that we could have a the next meeting in Mount Druitt as the issue we have in BCC Mount Druitt in secondary in most discussions - especially at meetings I have attended at BCC. It was advised by Rudi that BCC has facilities as opposed to Mount Druitt - which Mount Druitt will have some facilities like this in the near future.
I must admit there would have been at lease 30 attendees (stake holders) at the meeting, all of relevant interest. From Westbus and Busways Operators, other community groups, representation from BCC Youth Councilor, Blacktown Train Station Manager, bicycle community groups, representation from the taxi council , WSPTU and various other interest groups.
Meeting was chaired by Councillor Pembleton, after an interesting display of the railway duplication line at Richmond and showing the Quakers Hill Train Station development, council was council was concerned of the TCA movement of the footbridge at the station. There was also discussion of Blacktown car park to be developed on the First Avenue side of Blacktown Station, and discussion of St Marys Train Station, and mention of a Mount Druitt Train station in progress but not for discussion as yet - my question to the TCA was with the high congestion of bus traffic inn the Bus interchange has there been provisions to expand the bus interchange with the car park in a development process?
I was told environmental impact studies will be done etc - but I don't think they understood what I meant - at this time the Mayor left the Forum.
We then had various discussion about where has there been youth input in these car parks decision process ( as adults make these decisions) - and I think think went over the TCA head as an answer.
Then came my presentation which I had the main speech and dot points that I was going to and from, leaving myself to introduce 'Blake's Way'.
Blake went through reading routes 716 to 800 and also T ( transit way services). Questioned were raised regarding any proper maps - Blake advised no as the other maps he had would represent confusion - Rudi from BCC advised that the bus operators could assist him with mapping program etc. Also what was asked how much Blake being paid for this he answered nothing.
When bus issues came up, I raised the issue of interaction/communication between Train Stations and Bus operators/drivers: that is especially when trains arrive there is a three to four minute walk for commuters to reach bus service waiting at bus stands - if you are not a fast walker - the bus will leave before you reach there - leaving half an hour for next service. Rudi advised this has been addressed to both parties at other BCC PTMF's. It seems like it hasn't been followed up - I will raise this at a WSTPT.
Pauline from our group discussed her bus issues which claims ther is hourly services and although some of the early bus services happen, it has been getting better but feels she is not being heard.
Then Cathy Williams advised of real case studies showing from transport website how long it takes for commuters from their home to Mount Druitt Hospital - response from Westbus was that it is not their issue that the Hospital was built outside the hub of Mount Druitt.
Finally, was discussion of the next BCC PTMF and it was proposed that there be a one issue ( with a resolution) meeting and this is discussed by stakeholders - I brought up the relevance that we could have a the next meeting in Mount Druitt as the issue we have in BCC Mount Druitt in secondary in most discussions - especially at meetings I have attended at BCC. It was advised by Rudi that BCC has facilities as opposed to Mount Druitt - which Mount Druitt will have some facilities like this in the near future.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
674 Gasmatta Bus Service To Continue
Blacktown City Councillor Jacqueline Donaldson has advised our group of successful news that the temporary bus service that has been implemented by Westbus and Transport NSW around the Gasmatta Crescent area has been approved that it is a continued permanent service.
We congratulate the community members around Gasmatta Crescent who lobbied with us to get back the returned 674 bus services - although it is a limited bus service.
We congratulate the community members around Gasmatta Crescent who lobbied with us to get back the returned 674 bus services - although it is a limited bus service.
Mount Druitt Police Support Our Cause
We were blessed to have Sargent Busby from Mount Druitt Police, speaking at our meeting yesterday, regarding issues especially rock throwing around the area.
Although there are some recommendations on the 'Rock Throwing Report' presented by our Group Member, 'Wayne Lu' to Officer Busbsy, it appears that the recommendations we have may not be effective answers. The best answer is local knowledge provided by the community as soon there is a witnessed incident contacting the police. Who will do their best to catch the perpetrators.
I as well as others in our group, we have had our hearts dampened by what Office Busby had told us but yet we hold our heads high and proceed.
What we do believe is that that have been 4-5 charges against rock throwers around the area and this has placed a dampener on the rock throwing area around our area. We now believe that the word is getting around of these charges and this may stop these incidents that have previously caused harm.
Officer Busby has provide us with local police support as they like us do not want to see essential community transport services stopped or even cut.
Although there are some recommendations on the 'Rock Throwing Report' presented by our Group Member, 'Wayne Lu' to Officer Busbsy, it appears that the recommendations we have may not be effective answers. The best answer is local knowledge provided by the community as soon there is a witnessed incident contacting the police. Who will do their best to catch the perpetrators.
I as well as others in our group, we have had our hearts dampened by what Office Busby had told us but yet we hold our heads high and proceed.
What we do believe is that that have been 4-5 charges against rock throwers around the area and this has placed a dampener on the rock throwing area around our area. We now believe that the word is getting around of these charges and this may stop these incidents that have previously caused harm.
Officer Busby has provide us with local police support as they like us do not want to see essential community transport services stopped or even cut.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
How Much Time Does a Bus Operater Allow Bus Drivers To Set Down And Go?
Well I am always amazed at what my sources of information tell me. Don't get me wrong I'm not a person to spread rumor - the people that know me know that I do talk but if I talk about something I will talk as if it is factual to what I have been told! I hope that makes sense!
In our society we wake up head down the down and we expect life 'to be easy', that is at a press of a finger buses arrive as you set down at the bus stop and get you to your destination as per your timetable bus route service. And furthermore this would happen on your return trip and for the rest of your travelling days!
Truth to the matter is, that there is a bus operator around Mount Druitt that allows bus drivers to have set down at an average of 12 seconds per every 2 bus stops. Well I am quite overwhelmingly stunned! For arguments sake, if a driver has a time destination of 25 minutes for a journey, bus operators must allow for at least set downs and drive offs for at least more than 50 percent of bus stops, especially if a bus is completely loaded with commuters. thus if that happens the actual time for this is not 12 seconds per every second bus stop. Even if there was one commuter per bus stop set down and entering the bus - this could take up to thirty seconds as long as there is no issues with payment of fares.
I remember many months ago I was told by an unnamed driver that they were allowed 30 seconds per bus stop to set down and then drive off - at least this was reasonable time.
Maybe we should be more understanding, more polite to bus drivers who are on pressured time to get to each destination. I mean they do have our lives in there hands for parts of the day!
We recently had the completion of the Commonwealth games and Australia set a few games records. I just hope that bus operators do not make driver break any speeding records to possibly endanger the the health and safety of commuters lives!
In our society we wake up head down the down and we expect life 'to be easy', that is at a press of a finger buses arrive as you set down at the bus stop and get you to your destination as per your timetable bus route service. And furthermore this would happen on your return trip and for the rest of your travelling days!
Truth to the matter is, that there is a bus operator around Mount Druitt that allows bus drivers to have set down at an average of 12 seconds per every 2 bus stops. Well I am quite overwhelmingly stunned! For arguments sake, if a driver has a time destination of 25 minutes for a journey, bus operators must allow for at least set downs and drive offs for at least more than 50 percent of bus stops, especially if a bus is completely loaded with commuters. thus if that happens the actual time for this is not 12 seconds per every second bus stop. Even if there was one commuter per bus stop set down and entering the bus - this could take up to thirty seconds as long as there is no issues with payment of fares.
I remember many months ago I was told by an unnamed driver that they were allowed 30 seconds per bus stop to set down and then drive off - at least this was reasonable time.
Maybe we should be more understanding, more polite to bus drivers who are on pressured time to get to each destination. I mean they do have our lives in there hands for parts of the day!
We recently had the completion of the Commonwealth games and Australia set a few games records. I just hope that bus operators do not make driver break any speeding records to possibly endanger the the health and safety of commuters lives!
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Bus Transport Info - Not Much Info So Far!
I have located a group btinfo NSW that is is supposed to assist you with bus transport information but it seems it doesn't always work that way!
We are trying to find out what are the commuter figures for around since last bus review until now around Mount Druitt but i the answer is as per quote, 'I've looked further for you. Unfortunately, I've found the bus data we require is not publicly available'.
This indicates that that not all details of public transport is public some things are 'private'!
We are trying to find out what are the commuter figures for around since last bus review until now around Mount Druitt but i the answer is as per quote, 'I've looked further for you. Unfortunately, I've found the bus data we require is not publicly available'.
This indicates that that not all details of public transport is public some things are 'private'!
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Save Our Bus Services Mount Druitt And Surrounding Suburbs Group Member has planned a new carpark and bus Terminus At Mount Druitt Interchange!!!
Well yes another quality member , Peter Kerr has planned a bus terminus at Mount Druitt replacing the current bus interchange.
Peter is a well respected member of our group,who continually requests for better transport in his area in South Mount Druitt or simply known as 'Mount Druitt' or as I would call it 'Mount Druitt Heights'. He has lobbied for bridge overpasses over railway lines and has been successful in the installation of traffic lights at the corner of Carlisle Avenue and Fuller Streets, Mount Druitt.
His plan for the interchange I am still to sight it but what I have heard provides lending ears from me a vloice to support it. It is basic and can be visioned as a win for local transport for the community. that is there in one level for Busways interchange and a second level for Westbus interchanges bot for buses and the 4-5 floors of car parking. I believe cost would none at it is a commuter parking just like the commuter free parking alongside North Parade and Beames Avenue Mount Druitt alongside the the train station. It is such a simple idea we do not understand why we haven't heard about it as yet from stake holders - anyway we are the first to let you know about it and we won't be the last. We will keep you further up to date with this as more good news for the community come to hand - just wait until the stake holders hear about it and idea from the community!!!!!! That is what community is all about for the community!!!!
Peter is a well respected member of our group,who continually requests for better transport in his area in South Mount Druitt or simply known as 'Mount Druitt' or as I would call it 'Mount Druitt Heights'. He has lobbied for bridge overpasses over railway lines and has been successful in the installation of traffic lights at the corner of Carlisle Avenue and Fuller Streets, Mount Druitt.
His plan for the interchange I am still to sight it but what I have heard provides lending ears from me a vloice to support it. It is basic and can be visioned as a win for local transport for the community. that is there in one level for Busways interchange and a second level for Westbus interchanges bot for buses and the 4-5 floors of car parking. I believe cost would none at it is a commuter parking just like the commuter free parking alongside North Parade and Beames Avenue Mount Druitt alongside the the train station. It is such a simple idea we do not understand why we haven't heard about it as yet from stake holders - anyway we are the first to let you know about it and we won't be the last. We will keep you further up to date with this as more good news for the community come to hand - just wait until the stake holders hear about it and idea from the community!!!!!! That is what community is all about for the community!!!!
Monday, October 11, 2010
Western Sydney Transport Moving Ahead
Today I now think as part of a Steering Committee, Western Sydney Public Transport Users Group is a vital voice for the commuters and the public transport users of Western Sydney. It may not be that popular at this stage as it is not well publicised yet I'm looking to ensure that transport stake holders, concerned community members and transport users are aware that we are for these people also ensuring that there is no lack of services or disadvantaged services are provided. In other words that there is sufficient and efficient transport services to cater everywhere around the Western Sydney area which include 14 local government areas.
Although WSPTUG represents transport community groups of different areas of western Sydney each of these transport community groups will be well represented on the policy committee where local issues will be discussed and raised. This will then provide new upcoming policies for the future of the WSPTUG. Although the steering committee or the policy committees or the WSPTUG does not physically drive any form of transport around western Sydney, we will ensure that transport policies are driven properly and are referred directly to the NSW Government with the support of all relevant stake holders.
Although WSPTUG represents transport community groups of different areas of western Sydney each of these transport community groups will be well represented on the policy committee where local issues will be discussed and raised. This will then provide new upcoming policies for the future of the WSPTUG. Although the steering committee or the policy committees or the WSPTUG does not physically drive any form of transport around western Sydney, we will ensure that transport policies are driven properly and are referred directly to the NSW Government with the support of all relevant stake holders.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
The Year Past -Save Our Bus Services
Well what a year has past - today is the day a year ago we petitioned community residents of Whalan for bus services that were going to be deleted from in front of Whalan and as we discovered other suburbs of Mt Druitt.
I am so proud in what we have done - it is incredible. The achievements that we reached have been so outstanding and yet it seems like a never ending job. There is so much more that needs to be done in Transport in and around Mount Druitt and even in the wider parts of Western Sydney. Of course we as a transport lobby group we have touched a lot of peoples hearts and hurt a lot of politicians with our support for the return of bus services taken away.
You can not undermine the power of the people - the power that a local community group can do for the benefit of the local community. My only personal gain from this was a returned bus service and a high standing of community recognition. Yet it was just me that got us to where we are today it is each and everyone that has turned up to community rallies, group meetings - offered their support form outside of Mount Druitt. We will ensure transport gets moving within Mount Druitt.
I am so proud in what we have done - it is incredible. The achievements that we reached have been so outstanding and yet it seems like a never ending job. There is so much more that needs to be done in Transport in and around Mount Druitt and even in the wider parts of Western Sydney. Of course we as a transport lobby group we have touched a lot of peoples hearts and hurt a lot of politicians with our support for the return of bus services taken away.
You can not undermine the power of the people - the power that a local community group can do for the benefit of the local community. My only personal gain from this was a returned bus service and a high standing of community recognition. Yet it was just me that got us to where we are today it is each and everyone that has turned up to community rallies, group meetings - offered their support form outside of Mount Druitt. We will ensure transport gets moving within Mount Druitt.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
More Personal Past Bus Driver Success Stories
I can remember almost 8=9 years ago when a bus driver was taking me home to Whalan when the driver straight passed Bulolo Drive, Whalan and drove onto the end of Belmore Drive, approaching Woodstock Road.
I then indicated to the driver that the driver missed the turn. The bus driver became so embarrassed that I was asked if it was alright to miss Bulolo Drove up to Karangi Road, Whalan and back onto Bulolo Drive Whalan past Whalan Shops. I assumed no one would miss any stops and the bus driver followed. I accepted the drivers apology we had a laugh.
Every time I see this bus driver the driver smiles as if embarrassed - I always call the dirver, 'Hi 'boss' and the driver knows what I am talking about. It wasn't a situation that I should cause complain next day - problem came and problem was fixed!
I then indicated to the driver that the driver missed the turn. The bus driver became so embarrassed that I was asked if it was alright to miss Bulolo Drove up to Karangi Road, Whalan and back onto Bulolo Drive Whalan past Whalan Shops. I assumed no one would miss any stops and the bus driver followed. I accepted the drivers apology we had a laugh.
Every time I see this bus driver the driver smiles as if embarrassed - I always call the dirver, 'Hi 'boss' and the driver knows what I am talking about. It wasn't a situation that I should cause complain next day - problem came and problem was fixed!
Complimentary Bus Driver - Good News For Bus Driver GS5139
Happiness is what we all want to feel in our every day lives. Not everything in life makes us happy but we all make the best of our when we reach home surrounded by happy environments. Outside, we enjoy comfort with our friends and even our family. We we go to work happiness has to be created within when we receive our payroll payslip and it shows lots of money or we think so.
Yet getting us to work , visit our friends or even doing a little shopping, we tend to be unhappy waiting for the bus. We get excited when the bus reaches. We then put out our smokes ( if we smoke), check our watches for timing and ensure we have the right change for a quick trip to Mount Druitt. Now from here we depend on customer services of bus drivers no matter what time of the day.
Usually my expectations are very dismal of bus drivers as they look underpaid, grumpy and feel like it is not the job they wanted to end up and be. Yet, in their field they are professionals and they have duty of care to customers and to them selves as well as other vehicles.
Bus driver GS5139 on Busways Buses, I have found is extremely friendly, courteous and has exceptional skills as a driver who can ensure 90 percent of his customers are happy. What h=does he do - it is very simple - a simple ' Good Morning', and ,'Have a nice day! before I even say it is incedible. Not an overwhelming smile that a smile that send s the right message to commuters, that makes the state of the day for commuters pleasant.
If I can turn the clock back thirty-five years or more when I used to catch buses and there was one exceptional driver called 'Pommy Chris' - he started off as a ticket conductor and always made sure children gave up seats for adults that needed it (specially free paying students). If a double-decker bus he would go upstairs and check if there was any seats available and then send people upstairs. He greeted you and provided the occasionall joke . When he became a bus driver he was even more polite collecting fares and providing tickets for commuters. He was know to other bus drivers as 'Too polite'! But you can never be be too polite.
What my message is or what I am trying to get across here if every bus driver was like Busways bus driver GS5139, then more commuters will get buses. People get upset but it is up to the bus driver to assess situations and make people happy. It would be nice if drivers could provide the 131500 phone numbers for complaints or even compliments. It makes my day when a driver makes you happy or smile to start your day.
I would even like bus drivers to have a microphone indicating certain important destinations they have reached! This keeps people interested.Thanking customers that they are using their service. The average driver doesn't like talking and yes I understand they are not allowed to talk while driving as that can cause an accident but when the bus is not in motion why not they be polite. I am polite to them I 'Thank' them for a safe journey. They kept me alive!!!
Maybe bus operators need to improve customer service, which will have more winning positives for them -
Yet getting us to work , visit our friends or even doing a little shopping, we tend to be unhappy waiting for the bus. We get excited when the bus reaches. We then put out our smokes ( if we smoke), check our watches for timing and ensure we have the right change for a quick trip to Mount Druitt. Now from here we depend on customer services of bus drivers no matter what time of the day.
Usually my expectations are very dismal of bus drivers as they look underpaid, grumpy and feel like it is not the job they wanted to end up and be. Yet, in their field they are professionals and they have duty of care to customers and to them selves as well as other vehicles.
Bus driver GS5139 on Busways Buses, I have found is extremely friendly, courteous and has exceptional skills as a driver who can ensure 90 percent of his customers are happy. What h=does he do - it is very simple - a simple ' Good Morning', and ,'Have a nice day! before I even say it is incedible. Not an overwhelming smile that a smile that send s the right message to commuters, that makes the state of the day for commuters pleasant.
If I can turn the clock back thirty-five years or more when I used to catch buses and there was one exceptional driver called 'Pommy Chris' - he started off as a ticket conductor and always made sure children gave up seats for adults that needed it (specially free paying students). If a double-decker bus he would go upstairs and check if there was any seats available and then send people upstairs. He greeted you and provided the occasionall joke . When he became a bus driver he was even more polite collecting fares and providing tickets for commuters. He was know to other bus drivers as 'Too polite'! But you can never be be too polite.
What my message is or what I am trying to get across here if every bus driver was like Busways bus driver GS5139, then more commuters will get buses. People get upset but it is up to the bus driver to assess situations and make people happy. It would be nice if drivers could provide the 131500 phone numbers for complaints or even compliments. It makes my day when a driver makes you happy or smile to start your day.
I would even like bus drivers to have a microphone indicating certain important destinations they have reached! This keeps people interested.Thanking customers that they are using their service. The average driver doesn't like talking and yes I understand they are not allowed to talk while driving as that can cause an accident but when the bus is not in motion why not they be polite. I am polite to them I 'Thank' them for a safe journey. They kept me alive!!!
Maybe bus operators need to improve customer service, which will have more winning positives for them -
- It will create more commuters to get bus buses.
- It may create great sense of community satisfaction confidence of bus services provided.
- It can create a safer and friendlier bus commuter community
- Could even reduce crime
- Create an outstanding sense of community pride
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Well Blake Is Providing Newer And Better Services!
Today nearly one year since our group started and also since the new time tables were introduced to reduce bus services around Mount Druitt, Blake is running hot devising more and wonderful bus services for the area.
Blake will be invited to attend the Blacktown Transport Forum on 28th of this month and discuss his bus network system 'Blake's Way!'. At the same time these are the feature bus routes he is looking to include - this kid is incredible:
Blake will be invited to attend the Blacktown Transport Forum on 28th of this month and discuss his bus network system 'Blake's Way!'. At the same time these are the feature bus routes he is looking to include - this kid is incredible:
- A route for every number from 716-800 (including 660,670 & 672)
- a rout for every T-Way number between T70-T175
- 3 Shopper Hopper Services
- 5 Shared routes
- 4 Industrial routes (1 numbered I1)
- Routes split into Primary, secondary, tertiary and adjacent routes
- Simplified numbering system: 71x Eastern Blacktown, 72x South Blacktown, 73x South- East Mount Druitt, 74 Long distance services, 75x North West Mount Druitt, 76x North East Mount Druitt, 77x South St. Marys/Mt Druitt, North/Eastern Penrith, 79x South-West Penrith.,
- Region spreading as far as Emu Plains, Windsor, Rouse Hill, Castle Hill, Hornsby, Macquarie Park, Seven Hills, Parramatta, Liverpool and Wetherill Park
- Service to new areas such as Ropes Crossing, new estate Jordan Springs, Bungaribee and The Ponds
- Services to wanted areas including: Nepean Shores, Wetherill Park, Mount Druitt Hospital, Blacktown Swimming pool, Western end of Sedgeman Crescent.
- Plus a lot more
Wow all I can say is that we don't not realise (from a wonderful community we have ), how such a great young talent we has been created from self community interest. I can tell to plan these bus route I would not have dreamed of - maybe our total group would be doing but it would be a great challenge. Blake is like an athlete just entering the arena on the last lap of a great marathon and there is just the line to beat. Blake is like a surfer that picked up the best wave on the last ride of a competition and hangs on and wins! Blake is someone that came of the woods and found your group that needed to get to their final destination!
Blake to me,if I could decide would be Blacktown Youth of the year, Sydney Youth of the year, NSW Youth of the Year and also Australian Youth of the year!
What more can we!
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Our Mission Is Our Passion
As Save Our Bus Services, Mount Druitt And Surrounding Suburbs we really haven't made a mission,vision statement, motto and proceeded to push forward any of these.
So I may place my thoughts forward:
Vision- To represent the Mount Druitt Community, ensuring that bus services are provided and maintained whilst promoting the benefits of public transport buses for the future.
Mission- To reach our vision and work with the community and transport Stakeholders to ensure essential vital services are continuous, ensuring safety to drivers and community are adhered.
Motto- We will ensure buses are always moving forward around Mount Druitt!!!!
I leave future comments for yourselves
So I may place my thoughts forward:
Vision- To represent the Mount Druitt Community, ensuring that bus services are provided and maintained whilst promoting the benefits of public transport buses for the future.
Mission- To reach our vision and work with the community and transport Stakeholders to ensure essential vital services are continuous, ensuring safety to drivers and community are adhered.
Motto- We will ensure buses are always moving forward around Mount Druitt!!!!
I leave future comments for yourselves
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
We Have Been Invited To Attend And Speak At The Blacktown Transport Forum in October 2010
Debbie, has advised us we have been advised that there is an invitation to 1 or 2 of us from our Group to be represented in the Blacktown Transport Forum where it appears the residents of Blacktown may not be able to attend.
Firstly, on behalf of our group I would like to that the members of Blacktown Council - who have listened and understand we are a bus lobby group for the community. Secondly, it shows what we have been doing is being recognised as a strong representation and voice for the Mount Druitt Community.
We also have been asked to do a speech - what on we are not sure and will find out what the agenda is as well. We are working for a better bus services community for Mount Druitt.
Firstly, on behalf of our group I would like to that the members of Blacktown Council - who have listened and understand we are a bus lobby group for the community. Secondly, it shows what we have been doing is being recognised as a strong representation and voice for the Mount Druitt Community.
We also have been asked to do a speech - what on we are not sure and will find out what the agenda is as well. We are working for a better bus services community for Mount Druitt.
When Will Mt Druitt, Penrith & Lower Blue Mountains Get A T-Way
You ask yourself what is a T-Way? To answer your question properly it is a specially made roadway constructed for transit buses to go through residential areas, educational facilities and industrial areas.
If you look up the Transport Sydney buses website:
http://www.sydneybuses.info/western-sydney-buses.htm
Although known as LPT - there is an existing transit between Liverpool and Parramatta - since 2003 and is still running. buses are run by Hillsbus and Busways and when looking closely at timetables initial starts in morning are half an hour service to 12-15 minutes service peak times during the day. under an hour per trip. If this is so successful why not NSW Transport and The NSW Government look at studies to implement other Transit bus services in the outer Western Sydney like from Parramatta , Blacktown , Mount Druitt to Penrith and inclusive of to Bankstown, Castle Hill and Campbelltown.
This could be promoted as a wonderful to travel without worrying about driving ( as a commuter) the T-way Ten ticket is not a weekly ticket it is a ten trip ticket, so cost effective for the commuter if you are not a constant weekly user. Trips can be spaced out and since all buses would lead to Parramatta- in case commuters want to interconnect with another transit service buses would all leave at same time allowing for proper time for commuter transfer.
If you look up the Transport Sydney buses website:
http://www.sydneybuses.info/western-sydney-buses.htm
Although known as LPT - there is an existing transit between Liverpool and Parramatta - since 2003 and is still running. buses are run by Hillsbus and Busways and when looking closely at timetables initial starts in morning are half an hour service to 12-15 minutes service peak times during the day. under an hour per trip. If this is so successful why not NSW Transport and The NSW Government look at studies to implement other Transit bus services in the outer Western Sydney like from Parramatta , Blacktown , Mount Druitt to Penrith and inclusive of to Bankstown, Castle Hill and Campbelltown.
This could be promoted as a wonderful to travel without worrying about driving ( as a commuter) the T-way Ten ticket is not a weekly ticket it is a ten trip ticket, so cost effective for the commuter if you are not a constant weekly user. Trips can be spaced out and since all buses would lead to Parramatta- in case commuters want to interconnect with another transit service buses would all leave at same time allowing for proper time for commuter transfer.
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