Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has announced the start of a trial coach service linking the Cootamundra electorate to Canberra.
The trial service will start on April 8, linking Junee, Cootamundra and Gundagai to the National Capital.
“This is fantastic news for our community, as they will soon be able to travel to Canberra and back on the same day,” Ms Cooke said.
“I have been fighting hard as the Member for Cootamundra to get more transport connectivity to our region and I thank the community for their input into planning these services.
“Since the community survey opened last November, more than 400 people completed it to help NSW TrainLink select the days and routes for the trials.
“Feedback from the community indicates the new connection will allow people to visit family and friends, go shopping or attend university in Canberra, and return home on the same day.
“Tickets go on sale from Monday, March 25 and I encourage the community to get on board to ensure the coach services continue running after the trial finishes,” Ms Cooke said.
During the six-month trial, NSW TrainLink will operate five weekly services from Wagga to Canberra. On Mondays and Fridays, the coaches will stop at Gundagai. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, the coaches will stop at Junee and Cootamundra.
NSW TrainLink is finalising the service route and timetable based on feedback from surveys and community engagement sessions held throughout the region late last year.
NSW TrainLink will be reviewing customer feedback and preferences during the six-month trial to see if any improvements can be made.
The trial will use a modern coach with a wheelchair lift, space for up to two wheelchairs and has an on-board toilet.
Customers can book seats on the trial coach services online at www.transportnsw.info/regional or by phoning NSW TrainLink on 13 22 32. Concessions are available for eligible customers.
