Temporary bus boost for flood-affected towns

A temporary bus service is being extended to help keep the flood-affected communities of Camden Haven, Dunbogan and Laurieton better connected.

Deputy Premier and Minister Responsible for Disaster Recovery John Barilaro and Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said it was more important than ever to keep communities like these connected following the recent extreme weather, which saw roads and families cut off across the region.

'The NSW Government is building a safer and stronger regional NSW and nothing is more important than keeping our flood affected communities connected,' Mr Barilaro said.

'After the floods hit I visited Port Macquarie to see firsthand the damage that has been done and I am determined to support every flood-affected community until they are back on their feet.

'Part of the recovery process will involve being able to move freely between towns and these buses will be a huge help to people as they go about getting their everyday lives back on track.'

Mr Toole said the buses will go a long way towards helping communities access food and essential services.
'It's been a tough time for so many communities right across the state, and we're doing all we can to help people get back on their feet as quickly as we can,' Mr Toole said.

'For the past fortnight, four additional weekday services have run on a loop connecting Camden Haven, Dunbogan and Laurieton to help locals access essential services, shops, or medical facilities in town. This has been so well received in the community that we're extending it by another week.

'Initiatives like this will make a huge difference to the everyday lives of locals at a time when it's needed most.'

Member for Port Macquarie Leslie Williams said the temporary service was the result of Transport for NSW working with operator Busways to provide better connectivity in areas hard hit by the recent rain and flooding events.

'By offering four services per day, we are giving locals options to get where they need to go. Transport for NSW and Busways will keep track of how the service is being used and we can extend it for longer if needed,' Mrs Williams said.

'The free service will be particularly helpful for people who have lost their cars in the recent rain. The fully-accessibly temporary service known as 'Charter - 333' is in addition to the school run.'

Busways Regional Service Delivery Manager Mark Lawrence said it was great to be able to help local communities through a tough time.

'With flood recovery efforts under way, the additional service will be a lifeline for residents in this area,' Mr Lawrence said.

The extended service will run until Friday, 23 April. For a map and timetable for the service, visit www.busways.com.au/laurieton-township-loop

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