Public transport patrols double ahead of Easter

In the lead up to Easter the Queensland Government has doubled the number of Senior Network Officers on the Gold Coast targeting anti-social behaviour on public transport.

Assistant Minister for Public Transport Steve Minnikin said the strengthened presence on the Gold Coast will work to stamp out fare evasion and unacceptable behaviour.

“We are committed to creating a safer and better public transport network on the Gold Coast,” Mr Minnikin said.

“As we head into the Easter weekend up to 10 officers on average will be patrolling Gold Coast buses on each deployment, keeping our promise to revitalise frontline services.

“Last week 41 infringement notices and warnings were issued for fare evasion and anti-social behaviour on the Gold Coast.

“There is no excuse for people behaving badly or dodging the system and not paying the correct fare.

“If you do the wrong thing these holidays, there’s a greater chance you will get caught.

“Already we have 44 officers on the force putting us on track to meet our target of 56 officers by July.”

Mr Minnikin reminded customers travelling by public transport over Easter to check for changes to bus and train timetables due to public holiday arrangements.

“Queensland Rail trains and Surfside buses will operate a Sunday timetable on Good Friday (18 April), Easter Sunday (20 April) and Easter Monday (21 April), and a normal timetable on Saturday (19 April),” he said.

“The Gold Coast will come alive with events over the Easter weekend, and passengers are encouraged to leave the car at home, avoid the hassles of driving and parking, and hop on a bus or train to enjoy the festivities.

“We are expecting an increase in people catching public transport over the holiday period, so please be courteous and be mindful of your fellow passengers.

“Surfside buses will also run to a Sunday timetable on ANZAC Day, Friday, 25 April.”

For more information on public transport, visit translink.com.au or call 13 12 30, anytime.

[ENDS] 17 April 2014

Media contact: Stephanie Shield 0418 186 625