Ministerial Statement: qconnect zonal bus fares for Rockhampton

[ozbob]

Minister for Transport, Trade, Employment and Industrial Relations
The Honourable John Mickel
10/04/2008

qconnect zonal bus fares for Rockhampton

A new zonal bus fare system for Rockhampton would be in place by the end of June, Transport Minister, John Mickel, said today.

He told the Queensland Bus Industry Council conference in Yeppoon that the State Government was almost ready to unveil its regional transport initiative, qconnect, in the central Queensland capital.

"qconnect will deliver for regional Queenslanders a similar level of public transport service as TransLink provides in South East Queensland," Mr Mickel said.

"The first stage of qconnect is a user friendly zonal system with improved information for travellers and consistent fares.

"qconnect means major changes to the way bus services are provided and the comfort and efficiency of those services.

"The timetable improvements will ensure much greater connectivity between bus services and linkages to long distance coach, rail and air services," he said.

The Minister said qconnect fulfilled the Government's election commitment to standardise fares and improve public transport services in regional and rural Queensland.

"The impact of qconnect is expected to raise the profile of public transport in regional Queensland and make it easier to use, with services coordinated under one banner," he said.

"The distinctive qconnect branding will be visible on bus stops, urban buses, and long distance services.

"Where you see qconnect, it means the Government is working with operators to ensure affordable, efficient and accessible transport services for the community," Mr Mickel said.
He said the full qconnect package was much more than just a zonal fare system - it involves a suite of significant improvements designed to make regional transport services more attractive and accessible to passengers.

These include:
? new buses and improved bus services introduced progressively during 2008
? the introduction of new, modern accessible infrastructure, such as new bus stops and more informative signage.
? modern, air conditioned bus services accessible to people with disabilities
? new bus timetables that clearly show how the zonal system works.

"Through qconnect, the Government will constantly monitor the delivery of passenger transport services in regional areas and increase services where required," Mr Mickel said.

April 10, 2008

[glossyblack]

I didn't see this until I'd mouthed off... however it proves my point about failing to  plan. The still think that buses are they answer, I suppose they are if you ask the wrong question LOL