Golden Plains Shire mayor Owen Sharkey is advocating for better bus services between Bannockburn and Geelong.
With a population of almost 7000, Bannockburn currently has just one afternoon bus to Geelong and council wants hourly services during peak periods from 7am, services every two hours off-peak, and expanded weekend timetables.
“At the moment, residents are having to rely on their cars just to get to work, access education and training opportunities, see loved ones or even enjoy a simple shopping trip in Geelong – and that dependence can put real strain on households under financial pressure,” Cr Sharkey said.
“Our ageing residents deserve to stay independent and connected, yet without adequate bus services many are effectively cut off from essential health care and community life. That’s simply not good enough for a growing regional community.
“And if people can’t move around easily, it becomes harder for small towns to attract workers, tourists and new families. As highlighted in our Growing Places Strategy, there is a clear need, a clear desire and a clear opportunity for more diverse, accessible and sustainable transport options across the shire.”
The Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) is inviting residents to share their experiences with local buses as part of the Geelong, Bellarine Peninsula and Bannockburn Bus Network Review, which lists Bannockburn as the sole township in Golden Plains Shire.
Residents can have their say on the Geelong, Bellarine Peninsula and Bannockburn Bus Network Review by visiting engage.vic.gov.au/Geelong-bus
