The McGowan Government will introduce a 12-month road coach trial to service residents of Collie, Manjimup and surrounding areas, following the cancellation of privately-run services earlier this year.
The trial, starting 24 October, will introduce return trips between Collie and Bunbury five days a week, and between Manjimup and Bunbury (via Bridgetown) three days a week, to complement existing services in these areas.
The announcement of the 12-month trial follows the decision by South West Coach Lines to cease return services between Collie and Bunbury, and Collie and Manjimup earlier this year.
The new services will offer an early morning departure from Collie to Bunbury, returning in the late afternoon, on weekdays, and Manjimup to Bunbury (and return) on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
Communities in these areas were recently given the opportunity to comment on the new services through a household survey.
While the trial is planned to run for a year, passenger numbers will be reviewed regularly.
Throughout the trial period, an analysis of patronage will determine whether the services continue. The trial will also present an opportunity for the State Government to assess how bus services can be improved in Bunbury more broadly, to improve efficiency and community access.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
"We have listened to the people of Collie, Manjimup and surrounding areas, and we're committed to working with them to trial these new services to and from Bunbury.
"The loss of the previous privately-run coach service was a huge blow to the locals who relied on it, and I am pleased we have been able to step in to trial this new government-run route.
"My Government has worked hard over the past five years to boost public transport in the South-West - enhancing local bus routes and boosting the Australind train service - and we will continue to work with local communities to improve services in these areas."
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"I know the cessation of the South West Coach Lines commercial service to Collie and Manjimup was disappointing for many in the community, which is why our Government has made the decision to implement this new service on a 12-month trial.
"The new service will offer the same early morning departure and afternoon return as the previous South West Coach Line service, and operate Monday to Friday from Collie, and Monday, Wednesday and Friday from Manjimup.
"We hope these new services will be a welcome addition to the existing services available to residents in these communities."
As stated by Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns:
"So many people in the Collie region rely on public transport to get them to Bunbury for things such as work, education, medical appointments and visiting family and friends.
"I know when the South West Coach Lines service ceased earlier this year, it was incredibly disappointing for many in the community, but our Government has listened to the concerns, and I am thrilled with this announcement today.
"My message to the community now is make sure we use this service. The trial will run for a 12-month period, with patronage closely monitored to determine the feasibility of the service."
As stated by Warren-Blackwood MLA Jane Kelsbie:
"Many people in our community need to travel to Bunbury for work, education and personal reasons, so the reintroduction of morning and afternoon return bus services is a great outcome.
"When the South West Coach Lines service ceased earlier this year, we listened to the community concerns, and have now implemented this 12-month trial, which will complement existing services.
"Throughout the trial, we will be monitoring patronage to determine the future operations, so I encourage people to jump on board and make the most of the service."
