Residents in more townships across Glen Innes Severn Council will soon have easier access to medical appointments, shopping and other essential services, with Council expanding its Access Bus service to Emmaville, Glencoe, Red Range and Deepwater.
The door-to-door service, delivered through Council’s Life Choices Support Services, is expected to begin servicing the additional communities as early as this week, following community consultation that highlighted transport as a significant challenge for many residents.
Mayor Margot Davis said the issue had been raised consistently by people living in the region’s smaller villages.
“Transport is something Council is hearing about consistently from our villages,” Cr Davis said.
“For some residents, it’s not simple to get into town when they need to, and that can mean putting off appointments or relying on others.”
The expansion builds on the existing Access Bus program, which provides eligible residents with regular transport into Glen Innes to access healthcare, groceries and other essential services before returning them home.
One of the key aims of the expanded service is to help older residents remain independent while continuing to live in their local communities. Regular access to transport can make it easier to attend specialist appointments, collect prescriptions, complete everyday errands and maintain social connections, reducing isolation for people who may otherwise struggle to travel into Glen Innes.
“We know this service works, and it makes sense to extend it to more of our villages,” Cr Davis said.
“Having a regular, reliable option helps people get to appointments, do their shopping and stay connected.”
The expanded service will initially operate as a three-month pilot, allowing Council to assess demand and work with communities as the rollout continues.
The service has already attracted support from the Deepwater community, with the Deepwater Progress Association encouraging residents to make use of it. In a post on Facebook, the association urged locals to “Please support this pilot program so that it stays as a service for the village.”
Cr Davis said improving transport links across the region remained a key priority.
“Council will continue to work with all levels of government to improve transport options across our region,” she said.
“Through the State Infrastructure Regional Transport Plan, we’re advocating for better public transport outcomes to ensure residents can stay connected to essential services.”
Residents wishing to use the service should book by Tuesday each week for the Thursday trip into Glen Innes by calling 02 6730 2500. Users must be registered with My Aged Care and meet the eligibility requirements for the program.