The Andrews Labor Government has released a snapshot of the feedback and ideas received through recent the Regional Network Development Plan (RNDP) workshops held in the Barwon South West region, as planning continues on Victoria’s first ever long-term strategy for better regional public transport.
Nearly 300 people from across the Barwon South West region attended workshops in Portland, Warrnambool, Colac, Geelong and Torquay in addition to people providing feedback through online discussions and surveys.
The Barwon-South West Conversation Summary highlights aspects of services that residents valued, and those that they wished to see improved in the short, medium and long-term.
The frequency of train services between Warrnambool, Geelong and Melbourne featured prominently and there was a strong focus on local bus operating hours, geographic coverage and infrastructure such as shelters and station facilities. Another important topic
raised was the role of public transport during the peak tourism seasons to cater for increased travel demand.
More than 1,000 people participated in RNDP workshops across the state, making it one of the biggest public consultations ever to be undertaken in regional Victoria.
Feedback received through the workshops and online, will be central to the development of the RNDP will set out priorities for public transport services, infrastructure and investment over the next 20-30 years.
The Barwon-South West Conversation Summary is available at ptv.vic.gov.au/getinvolved or a hard copy can be requested by phoning 1800 800 007.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney
“I would like to thank everyone took part in the local workshops and contributed
their passion and ideas for better public transport in South Western Victoria.”
“The frequency of train services on the Warrnambool line was a key theme, as was the bus coverage and the role of public transport in catering for travel in peak tourist times on the coast.”
“This valuable input will be central to the development of the Regional Network Development Plan – Victoria’s long-term strategy for better public transport in regional areas.”
Quotes attributable to Regional Transport Advisory Group member and Board member of Geelong Authority, Janet Dore
“The extensive feedback will play a central role in developing Victoria’s first ever long term strategy for better regional public transport. The Regional Network Development Plan will be better for their input and ideas.”
Quotes attributable to Regional Transport Advisory Group member and Chief Executive Officer of Warrnambool City Council, Bruce Anson
“Investment in public transport is key to pushing growth in regional Victoria so we’re looking forward to hearing the outcomes of the consultation and what it means for the
future.”