The trial of south west community transport service Connectu has been extended, allowing greater access to transport for those in need.
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The service, which began in August 2012, provides a door-to-door service for people in Warrnambool, Koroit and Port Fairy who have limited access to traditional transport services.
The service, which relies on the use of donated cars and volunteer drivers, was initially established as a two year pilot project.
Western Victoria MP Gayle Tierney last week announced the state government has provided extra funding to keep the program running until June.
“Our $25,000 investment will ensure this innovative community service continues to help locals get to the shops, appointments and see friends and family,” Ms Tierney said.
“The Andrew’s Government is looking closely at community transport options in the regional network development plan – Victoria’s first long-term strategy for better regional transport.”
Manager for ConnectU, Ms Brenda Hampson says they are thankful for the additional funding.
“We are extremely grateful to the state government for this contribution towards the sustainability of this wonderful project,” Ms Hampson said.
“We currently have 24 volunteer drivers, 243 registered clients on the books and we average 300 trips per month across the Moyne and Warrnambool local government areas.”
ConnectU currently relies on the use of one car to transport clients to medical appointments, shopping and community activities.
Ms Hampson admitted with an average of 16 to 20 trips per day, five days a week, its a tight fitting them all in.
“Tuesday and Thursday we have the use of a car from the Warrnambool City Council Fleet, Friday we have a car from Brophy Family and Youth Services,” she said.
“We also have a vehicle made available with 24 hours prior notice from Moyne Health Service in Port Fairy.”
Chair of the ConnectU Board Stephen Lucas said the program was more than just a transport service.
“Our research has shown wide range of benefits to providing these services and assisting people who otherwise would not be able to travel,” Mr Lucas said
“This greatly increases well-being in our community.”
Ms Hampson hopes the project will become priority with the government’s upcoming focus on regional transport issues.
For more information contact Brenda Hampson from ConnectU on 5561 4958 or 0419 599 571.
