The program run by The Community Transport Company (TCTC) and funded by Transport for NSW (TfNSW) has been in operation for the past 15 months, with the aim of providing more access and opportunity for the whole community.

TCTC CEO Bethany Simmonds said the program has been successful in meeting the needs of the community, and for some of those passengers, that means they can get to and from work.

“Accessing reliable transport is harder for small communities, which don’t have a regular public transport timetable, half the battle is getting there. So, it’s great to see residents taking advantage of this program to further employment and other opportunities they may not have had before,” Ms Simmonds said.

Bowraville resident, Chenelle Peglar, has been using the service to get to her place of employment approximately 20 km away, five days per week.

“Using community transport means people like Chenelle, can get to work independently and not have to rely on family or friends to get there, as well as the opportunity of employment,” Ms Simmonds said.

“I would encourage all Bowraville residents to give us a call, we can provide flexible transport options for all locals, for all types of reasons.”

The program is available to all residents - indigenous and non-indigenous - with local residents able to use the transport service to get to medical appointments, for social outings, cultural events, shopping or even just to visit family or friends anywhere within the Nambucca, Bellingen and Coffs Harbour local government areas.

The service has the flexibility to provide transport for large groups of people and a regular shopping bus is also being planned.

Anyone wanting to use the service can contact 1300 812 504 and talk to TCTC’s Southern Office.

TCTC ask passengers using the service to make a partial contribution towards the cost of the transport. These contributions will help sustain a quality service and are low-cost and affordable.