Hinterland Connect service to stay

Passengers will continue to access the Hinterland Connect bus service between Maleny and Nambour for a further 12 months following a deal struck between the Queensland Government and Council.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said the Sunshine Coast Regional Council had agreed to jointly fund the trial service until mid-2015.  

“As part of our strong plan for a brighter future we have secured this local public transport service following strong representation from the Member for Glass House Andrew Powell and the community,” Mr Emerson said.

“The trial will continue to be a weekday-only service however it will still need to meet the same KPI’s previously agreed with council.

“Passengers will continue to be able to signal the driver between scheduled stops and board or depart the bus in safe spots along the route.”

Member for Glass House Andrew Powell said we would also implement minor timetable changes to encourage more passengers to use the service.

“In the coming weeks we will implement changes to the timetable based on feedback from the community,” Mr Powell said.

“We hope these changes will further drive passengers to make use of this service.

“The Maleny to Nambour route is the only service that connects Hinterland towns, including Maleny, Montville, Flaxton and Mapleton, and provides a vital link for the community.”

Sunshine Coast Council Transport Portfolio Councillor Rick Baberowski said the council was pleased to support the State Government’s extension to the modified trial.

“We urge hinterland residents to use the improved Hinterland Connect so the State Government can make it a permanent service at the end of the trial period,” Cr Baberowski said.

Division 5 councillor Jenny McKay said the trial extension was a great outcome for the Sunshine Coast hinterland community.

"I have worked hard to have this service continued and the community has worked hard as well," Cr McKay said. 

"I am so confident, now that the Minister has broadened the terms to enable the change of schedule, this will become one of the most highly-used transport services in the region."

[ENDS] 26 June 2014

Media contact: Stephanie Shield 0418 186 625