Public Transport the perfect option for Indy

Public Transport the perfect option for Indy

Indy-goers have been encouraged to take advantage of beefed up public transport to and from the four-day event to ensure they arrive home safely.

Minister for Transport John Mickel said patrons simply needed to show their pre-paid event tickets on any Surfside Buslines or QR services on the TransLink network to travel to and from the Nikon Indy 300.

“Public transport is the best way for people to travel to and from Indy to help ease traffic congestion and avoid the hassles of trying to find a park,” Mr Mickel said.

“We have added an additional 912 bus services on Gold Coast Highway along with 996 shuttle services operating throughout the Gold Coast. We have also increased the number and length of train services on the Gold Coast line.

“Public Transport is also a safer option for those who will be enjoying a beer at the track while watching the race.

“After consuming any amount of alcohol, a person’s vision, judgment and coordination can be impaired, making it difficult for them to drive safely.

“No matter how much or how little you have had to drink, alcohol will slow your reaction time, reduce concentration, increase confidence, affect vision and hearing, and relax you making you more likely to fall asleep at the wheel.

“If someone chooses to drink drive they are risking a lot; they face losing their licence, their lifestyle and ultimately their life," said Mr Mickel.

Joining Mr Mickel in urging race goers to use their head when planning their journey are V8 Supercar stars Russell Ingall and Shane Van Gisbergen.

“As a sport we represent the most highly skilled drivers in the country,” said V8 Supersafe ambassador, Shane Van Gisbergen

“We know exactly how to drive and stay in control – it’s what we do day in and day out.

“Unlike when you are on the public roads, we compete in an environment that is very controlled and far safer than an open highway, country road or a busy city street.

“Risking your life, or the lives of those around you driving home while under the influence is just not worth it.”

Russell Ingall was equally supportive of the initiative.

“Indy is always a memorable weekend, but drinking and driving is a serious issue and can easily turn into a weekend to remember for all the wrong reasons,” said Ingall

“The event is all about having fun, so why not let TransLink take you home from the track rather than having the hassle of trying to find a car park?

“With buses running right past the track it couldn’t be easier.”

Mr Mickel also acknowledged the importance of pedestrians being aware of their safety as well.

“We applaud people who use their heads and their feet to avoid drink driving but we ask that party goers and revelers don't consume so much alcohol that they become a danger to themselves when walking.

“The sobering fact is that intoxicated pedestrians are 3 times more likely to be involved in a fatal accident than pedestrians who haven't been drinking.

“Party goers need to be aware of their vulnerability as drunk pedestrians.

“An impaired sense of balance and timing, herd mentality, and a general feeling of invincibility are just a few alcohol-induced behaviours that can get a pedestrian into trouble.

Mr Mickel said TransLink was also providing extra bus and train services to cater to the Indy-bound masses.

"In addition to the regular QR services between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, TransLink will also be providing extra services on the Gold Coast line on Saturday October 25 and Sunday October 26," Mr Mickel said.

Mr Mickel said TransLink's public transport arrangement for Indy celebrations began in 2004 and had proved to be popular.

"Last year, patronage on bus services across the Gold Coast during Indy week totalled more than 296,000," Mr Mickel said.

"This marks a 34 per cent jump, or an extra 100,600 journeys made, compared to the week before Indy week, in which almost 196,000 journeys were made.

Please check www.translink.com.au or phone 13 12 30, 24 hours a day, seven days a week for details closer to the event.

Media Contact: Jane Rowe 3237 1125 or 0409 588 302