Bus Trial Win!

_{21, January 2005}

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Geoff celebrating with Cliff Willmett, President of the Samford & District Progress Association, the announcement of a 3 month Translink bus trial.

Samford Valley residents proved that community power really can work with the announcement of a three-month TransLink bus trial in April, State Member for Ferny Grove Geoff Wilson announced today.

"TransLink will trial a bus service connecting Samford Village and Ferny Grove railway station during the morning and afternoon peak times." Geoff Wilson said.

The Samford Transport Group conducted a public survey in 2004 and also organised a public meeting to identify better transport options for the Valley. The Group was strongly supported by the Samford Progress Association and the Village Pump.

"I was pleased to help facilitate the process and to make representations to TransLink and Transport Minister Paul Lucas in support of the trial." Geoff Wilson said.

"They have listened and responded, and I thank Minister Lucas for his support." Geoff Wilson said.

Transport Minister Paul Lucas said tenders will soon be called for the operation of the trial services which end on June 30.  "Two morning and afternoon bus services connecting with commuter rail services at Ferny Grove station will be trialled as part of the TransLink network in South East Queensland." he said.

Integrated ticketing under TransLink has made it easier and cheaper for people travel from one mode of transport to another.  TransLink provides standard zonal fares and concessions and the Samford service will cover zones 4 and 5.

"After three months, TransLink will review patronage, and if the services are well utilised, the trial may be extended for another three months." Minister Lucas said.  "We hop that the trial will show that an ongoing service will be viable."

Geoff Wilson encouraged local residents to "get on board" with the 3 month trial.

"Most Samford residents responding to the 2004 survey called for a bus service.  Now they have the opportunity to demonstrate that need by supporting the trial." Geoff Wilson said.

Full details of the timetable, fares and bus stops can be accessed on the Translink website at http://www.translink.qld.gov.au.

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