Kealy: A long time on a bus

AHorsham man using public transport has taken longer to travel between Horsham and Warrnambool than someone flying between Melbourne and Tokyo.

Member for Lowan Emma Kealy has used the man’s 10-hour bus trip to point out inadequacies of regional passenger services.

She said she was not surprised to learn of the experience, which involved the man travelling to Warrnambool for a meeting but needing to first travel to Ballarat due to time-tabling.

“This situation is not unique and while totally unacceptable, is not surprising given the lack of regional public transport options available,” she said.

“A perfect example is the lack of public transport between Horsham and Hamilton, two major regional centres in western Victoria.

“It is astounding to think that you can fly from Melbourne to Tokyo in less time than it takes to get from Horsham to Warrnambool using our inadequate public transport system.

“The simple fact is that for western Victoria to get moving again, we need better access to public transport.”

Ms Kealy is calling on people to share their travel experiences.

“I’m asking local people to keep sharing their stories to help get our voice heard in parliament about how better public transport services would improve the lives of the 110,000 people who live in our great part of the state,” she said.

Ms Kealy said people could tell their stories online at haveyoursayvictoria.org/westernpublictransportservices or by calling her electorate office on 5382 0097 or 5571 9800.