5 Sep 2009: A classic example of what is wrong with public transport in SEQ

[ozbob]

Media Release 5 September 2009

SEQ:  A classic example of what is wrong with public transport in SEQ

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport commuters has previously raised the issue of poor service frequency between Ipswich and Rosewood.  In 2007 we highlighted the significant gaps in the timetable (1).  The gaps still exist and act as a major disincentive for citizens to use public transport.

Robert Dow, spokesperson for RAIL Back On Track said:

"It is incredible to consider that every weekday during the peak period a train departs Ipswich for Rosewood at 4.38pm, and then the next service is at 5.51pm (2). There is a much better off peak frequency!"

"This is not servicing people who commute from places along the Rosewood line and further out, that work and attend school and education centres and conduct business in the Ipswich area, and further restricting options for long haul commuters who travel to the other centres such as the CBD.  More services are required around 5.00pm, and 5.30pm at least.  This general region is one of the fastest growing in the state.?

"Rosewood line commuters are also presently under the threat of a loss of their rail service for three months or more due to maintenance on the Sadliers Crossing rail bridge, although the Minister for Transport has indicated that this planned closure is being reviewed (3)."

"It is time Rosewood line commuters were looked after.   It appears that the Government is happy to loan funds for more road tunnels but has the public transport operators under restrictions.  The failure to utilise the new busways with increased bus frequency and routes, and now the failure to address the chronic service shortfalls on our rail network is not wearing well with commuters."

References:

1. 28 July 2007: Ipswich to Rosewood Citytrain Services: Timetable improvements
http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=173.0

2. http://download.translink.com.au/timetables/090223_ipswich.pdf

3. http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=2665.0

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org