7 Apr 2014: Queensland: Come clean with the real public transport data

[ozbob]

Media release 7th April 2014

Queensland: Come clean with the real public transport data

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers has again called for the public disclosure of detailed public transport data.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Detailed public disclosure of detailed public transport data is not done in Queensland as for other states (1)."

"Yesterday afternoon (Sunday) there was yet another 'signal fault' which stopped trains on the Caboolture line and had flow on effects to the Ipswich and Sunshine Coast lines. We have a report of a commuter being stuck on a train for one and a half hours (2)."

"There are constant problems with the public transport network around the clock. The Minister for Transport claims that train reliability has improved. Unless we are given the data for the full operating period how can that be confirmed? Where is the data for the bus and ferry networks? Bus no shows are common. The network is a shambles."

"Fares are in meltdown in SEQ (3). Hiding the detailed public transport data indicates the authorities are unable to effectively manage the network in terms of performance levels. Time for some new leaders?"


References:

1. SEQ: Call for transparency and accuracy with public transport data http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10357.0

2. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=1862.msg140782#msg140782

3. The south-east Queensland fare fail ... http://railbotforum.org/bb/index.php

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Data for Transport can be found here --> https://data.qld.gov.au/organization/transport-and-main-roads

Transport customer information here --> https://data.qld.gov.au/dataset/transport-customer-information

It is only very limited and for SEQ, essentially the same as what is available on the TransLink web site - performance snapshots --> here!

No objective performance assessment for rail, bus or ferry.  Limited peak data for rail is available at Queensland Rail --> http://www.queenslandrail.com.au/RailServices/City/Pages/PeakOn-TimeResults.aspx  This is only current for 5 days and then disappears, so I keep an ongoing record here --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?board=73.0  better than nothing ..

Patronage on lines, stations, bus routes, ferry routes is not available in any detail.   Paper ticket sales no information.  Go card - no breakdown into fare types, paid or free trips and so forth.

Last patronage data for rail 2012 --> http://translink.com.au/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/annual-and-quarterly-reports

All in all, just a big farce ...

[ozbob]

Transperth trains on-time running ... how it should be done ..  http://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/AboutUs/Surveysandstatistics/Archivedontimerunningstatistics.aspx

January 2014 --> http://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/Portals/0/docs/2014%20Documents/2014%20OTR%20stats/Transperth%20trains%20on%20time%20running%20Jan%2014.pdf

[ozbob]

How it should be done ..

http://ptv.vic.gov.au/about-ptv/ptv-data-and-reports/research-and-statistics/

[ozbob]

How it should be done ...

Sydney Trains --> http://www.sydneytrains.info/about/our_performance/otr_summary.jsp

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

9th April 2014

More on Queensland: Come clean with the real public transport data

Good morning!

An example of honest OTP reporting.  From Perth WA.

Transperth trains on-time running ... how it should be done ..  http://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/AboutUs/Surveysandstatistics.aspx

January 2014 --> http://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/Portals/0/docs/2014%20Documents/2014%20OTR%20stats/Transperth%20trains%20on%20time%20running%20Jan%2014.pdf

Note full OTP for trains is given, peak and interpeak.  Here in SEQ all we get is peak, and that is limited to the last 5 days. [ http://www.queenslandrail.com.au/RailServices/City/Pages/PeakOn-TimeResults.aspx ]

So I have become accustomed to recording that data on a regular basis so at least there is some sort of public record. See --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?board=73.0

It is beyond pathetic that I am forced to record this data, a task that is no doubt being done by the bureaucracy but treated as a state secret.  The contempt for citizens by the authorities is breathtaking.

Note that a measure of bus OTP is also given in Perth.  Something that also missing in SEQ.  Why?  Hiding failure?

See no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil. Just spin ...  public transport data policy for Queensland.


Best wishes.  Good luck on your commute!

Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

Media release 7th April 2014

Queensland: Come clean with the real public transport data

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers has again called for the public disclosure of detailed public transport data.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Detailed public disclosure of detailed public transport data is not done in Queensland as for other states (1)."

"Yesterday afternoon (Sunday) there was yet another 'signal fault' which stopped trains on the Caboolture line and had flow on effects to the Ipswich and Sunshine Coast lines. We have a report of a commuter being stuck on a train for one and a half hours (2)."

"There are constant problems with the public transport network around the clock. The Minister for Transport claims that train reliability has improved. Unless we are given the data for the full operating period how can that be confirmed? Where is the data for the bus and ferry networks? Bus no shows are common. The network is a shambles."

"Fares are in meltdown in SEQ (3). Hiding the detailed public transport data indicates the authorities are unable to effectively manage the network in terms of performance levels. Time for some new leaders?"


References:

1. SEQ: Call for transparency and accuracy with public transport data http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10357.0

2. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=1862.msg140782#msg140782

3. The south-east Queensland fare fail ... http://railbotforum.org/bb/index.php

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

11th April 2014

And More on Queensland: Come clean with the real public transport data

Greetings,

To further reinforce how dismal public disclosure of public transport data is, have a read of this article from the Queensland Times.

To go, or not to go ... that is QR coffee
http://www.qt.com.au/news/get-your-coffee-to-go/2225693/

Passenger data in the article is from 2012, last available publicly.

HOPELESS.  There is apparently a deliberate policy of non-disclosure to hide the failings of the transport authorities.

Enjoy your commute!

Best wishes
Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

Sent to all outlets:

9th April 2014

More on Queensland: Come clean with the real public transport data

Good morning!

An example of honest OTP reporting.  From Perth WA.

Transperth trains on-time running ... how it should be done ..  http://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/AboutUs/Surveysandstatistics.aspx

January 2014 --> http://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/Portals/0/docs/2014%20Documents/2014%20OTR%20stats/Transperth%20trains%20on%20time%20running%20Jan%2014.pdf

Note full OTP for trains is given, peak and interpeak.  Here in SEQ all we get is peak, and that is limited to the last 5 days. [ http://www.queenslandrail.com.au/RailServices/City/Pages/PeakOn-TimeResults.aspx ]

So I have become accustomed to recording that data on a regular basis so at least there is some sort of public record. See --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?board=73.0

It is beyond pathetic that I am forced to record this data, a task that is no doubt being done by the bureaucracy but treated as a state secret.  The contempt for citizens by the authorities is breathtaking.

Note that a measure of bus OTP is also given in Perth.  Something that also missing in SEQ.  Why?  Hiding failure?

See no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil. Just spin ...  public transport data policy for Queensland.

Best wishes.  Good luck on your commute!

Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

Media release 7th April 2014

Queensland: Come clean with the real public transport data

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers has again called for the public disclosure of detailed public transport data.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Detailed public disclosure of detailed public transport data is not done in Queensland as for other states (1)."

"Yesterday afternoon (Sunday) there was yet another 'signal fault' which stopped trains on the Caboolture line and had flow on effects to the Ipswich and Sunshine Coast lines. We have a report of a commuter being stuck on a train for one and a half hours (2)."

"There are constant problems with the public transport network around the clock. The Minister for Transport claims that train reliability has improved. Unless we are given the data for the full operating period how can that be confirmed? Where is the data for the bus and ferry networks? Bus no shows are common. The network is a shambles."

"Fares are in meltdown in SEQ (3). Hiding the detailed public transport data indicates the authorities are unable to effectively manage the network in terms of performance levels. Time for some new leaders?"


References:

1. SEQ: Call for transparency and accuracy with public transport data http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10357.0

2. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=1862.msg140782#msg140782

3. The south-east Queensland fare fail ... http://railbotforum.org/bb/index.php

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Twitter

Robert Dow ‏@Robert_Dow

Bob's Blog - the SEQ PT data secrecy con exposed --> http://railbotforum.org/bb/index.php?post/2014/04/12/See-no-evil%2C-speak-no-evil%2C-hear-no-evil-public-transport-data-transparency-in-Queensland ... #qldpol #auspol #springst #nswpol #wapol #secretstateQLD

[ozbob]

http://railbotforum.org/bb/index.php?

See no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil - public transport data transparency in Queensland

By Robert Dow, Saturday, April 12 2014.

Public transport data made available publicly in Queensland is very superficial and lacks currency and real detail.

Why is this so? What should happen from here?

Lets go back a little in time. TransLink used to publish the TransLink Tracker ( http://translink.com.au/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/annual-and-quarterly-reports ). This included some public transport performance data for SEQ, including a measure of bus on time running and reliability. Bus reliability was reported as 100% till I challenged it and pointed out that was not possible. TransLink simply stopped publishing this falsehood. Bus on time performance was reported and had it often better than rail. An absurd falsehood. I constantly challenged this as well. Our our estimates of bus on time performance was around 80-85%.

A letter to the editor to the Courier Mail, published 10 August 2009 for example

The TransLink Tracker report states on-time bus performance is approaching 96 per cent. How can that be? Any regular bus user can tell you on-time performance is nowhere near that.

Robert Dow Darra

This charade of reporting false on-time bus performance continued, despite my constant challenges, until a new CEO was appointed to TransLink. On 10 April 2012, the then new CEO of TransLink, Mr. Neil Scales (now DG TMR) was interviewed by Spencer Howson on Breakfast 612 ABC Radio Brisbane and myself on the 11 April 2012 ( http://blogs.abc.net.au/queensland/2012/04/translink-stats-for-oct-dec-2011-released.html?site=brisbane&program=612_breakfast ).

One of the questions for Neil yesterday morning was - when will buses start running on time? He said while it was easy for trains to be on time, buses are never on time - anywhere in the world - because of traffic. But this report shows buses are consistently on time MORE OFTEN than trains. 95% of buses, 94.5% of trains. Last quarter 95% of buses, 93% of trains.

Shortly after this interview and to Mr Scale's credit, TransLink stopped publishing the false bus on-time performance data and till this day, no measure is made available.

What happens now?

Data for Transport can be found here --> https://data.qld.gov.au/organization/transport-and-main-roads

Transport customer information here --> https://data.qld.gov.au/dataset/transport-customer-information

It is only very limited and for SEQ, essentially the same as what is available on the TransLink web site - performance snapshots --> here!

No objective performance assessment for rail, bus or ferry. Limited peak data for rail is available at Queensland Rail http://www.queenslandrail.com.au/RailServices/City/Pages/PeakOn-TimeResults.aspx This is only current for 5 days and then disappears, so I keep an ongoing record here http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?board=73.0 better than nothing ..

Patronage on lines, stations, bus routes, ferry routes is not available in any detail. Paper ticket sales no information. Go card - no breakdown into fare types, paid or free trips and so forth.

Last patronage data for rail 2012 --> http://translink.com.au/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/annual-and-quarterly-reports

As can be noted the data made available is superficial, mainly subjective and designed to cover up the real issues with our public transport network. For the Queensland Government to claim it is being open and transparent is just nonsense. It is being secretive and attempting to cover up the real problems.

So what should happen from here?

The authorities need to come clean and publish the full data.

A recent media release on this:

=========================

Media release 7th April 2014

Queensland: Come clean with the real public transport data

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers has again called for the public disclosure of detailed public transport data.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Detailed public disclosure of detailed public transport data is not done in Queensland as for other states (1)."

"Yesterday afternoon (Sunday) there was yet another 'signal fault' which stopped trains on the Caboolture line and had flow on effects to the Ipswich and Sunshine Coast lines. We have a report of a commuter being stuck on a train for one and a half hours (2)."

"There are constant problems with the public transport network around the clock. The Minister for Transport claims that train reliability has improved. Unless we are given the data for the full operating period how can that be confirmed? Where is the data for the bus and ferry networks? Bus no shows are common. The network is a shambles."

"Fares are in meltdown in SEQ (3). Hiding the detailed public transport data indicates the authorities are unable to effectively manage the network in terms of performance levels. Time for some new leaders?"

References:

1. SEQ: Call for transparency and accuracy with public transport data http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10357.0

2. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=1862.msg140782#msg140782

3. The south-east Queensland fare fail ... http://railbotforum.org/bb/index.php

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

=========================

Some examples of how data is published in other jurisdictions:

Transperth trains on-time running ... how it should be done .. http://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/AboutUs/Surveysandstatistics/Archivedontimerunningstatistics.aspx

January 2014 --> http://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/Portals/0/docs/2014%20Documents/2014%20OTR%20stats/Transperth%20trains%20on%20time%20running%20Jan%2014.pdf

Victoria --> http://ptv.vic.gov.au/about-ptv/ptv-data-and-reports/research-and-statistics/

Sydney Trains --> http://www.sydneytrains.info/about/our_performance/otr_summary.jsp

Here in SEQ all we get is peak, and that is limited to the last 5 days. [http://www.queenslandrail.com.au/RailServices/City/Pages/PeakOn-TimeResults.aspx ]

So I have become accustomed to recording that data on a regular basis so at least there is some sort of public record. See --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?board=73.0

It is beyond pathetic that I am forced to record this data, a task that is no doubt being done by the bureaucracy but treated as a state secret. The contempt for citizens by the authorities is breathtaking.

Note that the measure of bus OTP is also given in Perth. Something that also missing in SEQ. Why? Hiding failure?

It is time the Queensland Government lived up to its rhetoric and made the real data publicly available. By doing this the real issues will be identifiable and something might be done to sort them.

We are tired of puffed up spin.

[Stillwater]

As we no doubt will be told, Ozbob, it is the fault of the former Labor Government.

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

15th April 2014

"Strong Choices" required for BCC Bus Network

Greetings,

Documents linked to the new QLD Government 'Strong Choices' website confirm the ongoing charade that is public transport in south-east Queensland.

One of the website pages references the State Budget 2013-14 Service Delivery Statements Department of Transport and Main Roads where it states, among others,

"...improving transport service reliability, frequency and affordability – progressed the SEQ Bus Network Review in conjunction with Brisbane City Council (BCC)."

No it did not, and we ask that this line and others like it should be redacted from the report. BCC did its own review and rejected the SEQ Bus Network Review, exercising its de facto control over the bus network. We look critically at some of the claims made:

1. Reliability

Bus reliability statistics were deleted from the TransLink tracker reports after we highlighted dubious bus on time statistics and they have not been published since! So improvement to bus reliability across the network as a whole cannot be assessed, at least from publicly available data. Even if there were reliability improvements the fact that the central principle of the BCC bus review was that most routes would be unaffected, this must also mean that most passengers would not perceive an increase in reliability, as most routes were unchanged.

Reliability for Bulimba residents using the CityCat was made worse by the alteration of ferry service patterns as well.

2. Frequency

BCC *reduced* the frequency of a number of routes and was unable to add a single genuinely new BUZ service to its transport offering. Had the TransLink bus review proceeded and BCC not actively obstructed consultation by refusing the meet TransLink on six occasions, the residents of Yeronga, Centenary, Albany Creek would be riding high frequency BUZ services by now and the residents of Bulimba would be enjoying improved service.

3. Affordability

Fares went UP by 7.5% again due the the inability to contain the massive cost explosion that inevitably results from a taxi style network having to charge taxi style fares. This cost explosion engulfed the disadvantaged and vulnerable in our community, slamming people on the minimum wage, the unemployed and those on Centrelink payments.

In our opinion, regulatory capture of the agency TransLink through losing de facto control of bus route planning (and therefore cost containment) to the operator that is BCC, and TransLink practices where bus services are bought from local monopolies unchallenged and unchecked by competitive contracting contributed to this.

All bus network planning must be performed by TransLink to the exclusion of all others. Second, competition is desirable to monopoly and bus contracting therefore should proceed to bring Brisbane into line with Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney after meticulous consideration of the circumstances. It is our view that a private operator could significantly undercut BCC by simply offering to do what BCC cannot bring itself to do -run a connected bus network.

If the Queensland Government wants to make "strong choices" it can. Stand up to the BCC bus monopoly and pass legislation reversing the Queensland Government's 1925 decision to grant BCC public transport, put the bus network out to competitive contract, redesign the bus network to attract more patronage through emphasising speed, simplicity, frequency and connections, consider buying out all BCC bus depot land through a leaseback scheme contingent on holding a bus contract, and ensure that when the BCC bus contract comes up for review this year that the term is significantly shortened.

Best wishes
Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org


References:

Dealing with Queensland's Accumulated Debt Problems http://www.strongchoices.qld.gov.au/

State Budget 2013-14 Service Delivery Statements Department of Transport and Main Roads http://www.budget.qld.gov.au/budget-papers/2013-14/bp5-tmr-2013-14.pdf

Re: Brisbane: Transport functions must be removed from the Brisbane City Council http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=9756.msg122660#msg122660

SEQ: BCC Bus Cost Explosion Engulfs Community http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10458.0

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

18th April 2014

See no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil - public transport data transparency in Queensland

Greetings,

What are TransLink and the authorities afraid of?  Honesty is the first step in sorting out the festering mess. 

Hiding the real facts just worsens the contempt many already have for the transport authorities in SEQ.

Other states do it right.  Not in Queensland!

Best wishes
Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

http://railbotforum.org/bb/index.php?

See no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil - public transport data transparency in Queensland

By Robert Dow, Saturday, April 12 2014.

Public transport data made available publicly in Queensland is very superficial and lacks currency and real detail.

Why is this so? What should happen from here?

Lets go back a little in time. TransLink used to publish the TransLink Tracker ( http://translink.com.au/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/annual-and-quarterly-reports ). This included some public transport performance data for SEQ, including a measure of bus on time running and reliability. Bus reliability was reported as 100% till I challenged it and pointed out that was not possible. TransLink simply stopped publishing this falsehood. Bus on time performance was reported and had it often better than rail. An absurd falsehood. I constantly challenged this as well. Our our estimates of bus on time performance was around 80-85%.

A letter to the editor to the Courier Mail, published 10 August 2009 for example

The TransLink Tracker report states on-time bus performance is approaching 96 per cent. How can that be? Any regular bus user can tell you on-time performance is nowhere near that.

Robert Dow Darra

This charade of reporting false on-time bus performance continued, despite my constant challenges, until a new CEO was appointed to TransLink. On 10 April 2012, the then new CEO of TransLink, Mr. Neil Scales (now DG TMR) was interviewed by Spencer Howson on Breakfast 612 ABC Radio Brisbane and myself on the 11 April 2012 ( http://blogs.abc.net.au/queensland/2012/04/translink-stats-for-oct-dec-2011-released.html?site=brisbane&program=612_breakfast ).

One of the questions for Neil yesterday morning was - when will buses start running on time? He said while it was easy for trains to be on time, buses are never on time - anywhere in the world - because of traffic. But this report shows buses are consistently on time MORE OFTEN than trains. 95% of buses, 94.5% of trains. Last quarter 95% of buses, 93% of trains.

Shortly after this interview and to Mr Scale's credit, TransLink stopped publishing the false bus on-time performance data and till this day, no measure is made available.

What happens now?

Data for Transport can be found here --> https://data.qld.gov.au/organization/transport-and-main-roads

Transport customer information here --> https://data.qld.gov.au/dataset/transport-customer-information

It is only very limited and for SEQ, essentially the same as what is available on the TransLink web site - performance snapshots --> here!

No objective performance assessment for rail, bus or ferry. Limited peak data for rail is available at Queensland Rail http://www.queenslandrail.com.au/RailServices/City/Pages/PeakOn-TimeResults.aspx This is only current for 5 days and then disappears, so I keep an ongoing record here http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?board=73.0 better than nothing ..

Patronage on lines, stations, bus routes, ferry routes is not available in any detail. Paper ticket sales no information. Go card - no breakdown into fare types, paid or free trips and so forth.

Last patronage data for rail 2012 --> http://translink.com.au/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/annual-and-quarterly-reports

As can be noted the data made available is superficial, mainly subjective and designed to cover up the real issues with our public transport network. For the Queensland Government to claim it is being open and transparent is just nonsense. It is being secretive and attempting to cover up the real problems.

So what should happen from here?

The authorities need to come clean and publish the full data.

A recent media release on this:

=========================

Media release 7th April 2014

Queensland: Come clean with the real public transport data

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers has again called for the public disclosure of detailed public transport data.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Detailed public disclosure of detailed public transport data is not done in Queensland as for other states (1)."

"Yesterday afternoon (Sunday) there was yet another 'signal fault' which stopped trains on the Caboolture line and had flow on effects to the Ipswich and Sunshine Coast lines. We have a report of a commuter being stuck on a train for one and a half hours (2)."

"There are constant problems with the public transport network around the clock. The Minister for Transport claims that train reliability has improved. Unless we are given the data for the full operating period how can that be confirmed? Where is the data for the bus and ferry networks? Bus no shows are common. The network is a shambles."

"Fares are in meltdown in SEQ (3). Hiding the detailed public transport data indicates the authorities are unable to effectively manage the network in terms of performance levels. Time for some new leaders?"

References:

1. SEQ: Call for transparency and accuracy with public transport data http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10357.0

2. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=1862.msg140782#msg140782

3. The south-east Queensland fare fail ... http://railbotforum.org/bb/index.php

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

=========================

Some examples of how data is published in other jurisdictions:

Transperth trains on-time running ... how it should be done .. http://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/AboutUs/Surveysandstatistics/Archivedontimerunningstatistics.aspx

January 2014 --> http://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/Portals/0/docs/2014%20Documents/2014%20OTR%20stats/Transperth%20trains%20on%20time%20running%20Jan%2014.pdf

Victoria --> http://ptv.vic.gov.au/about-ptv/ptv-data-and-reports/research-and-statistics/

Sydney Trains --> http://www.sydneytrains.info/about/our_performance/otr_summary.jsp

Here in SEQ all we get is peak, and that is limited to the last 5 days. [http://www.queenslandrail.com.au/RailServices/City/Pages/PeakOn-TimeResults.aspx ]

So I have become accustomed to recording that data on a regular basis so at least there is some sort of public record. See --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?board=73.0

It is beyond pathetic that I am forced to record this data, a task that is no doubt being done by the bureaucracy but treated as a state secret. The contempt for citizens by the authorities is breathtaking.

Note that the measure of bus OTP is also given in Perth. Something that also missing in SEQ. Why? Hiding failure?

It is time the Queensland Government lived up to its rhetoric and made the real data publicly available. By doing this the real issues will be identifiable and something might be done to sort them.

We are tired of puffed up spin.

[ozbob]

....

Secondly, I should probably write this in the thread that discusses the Translink Tracker reports more specifically, but I want to point out that the data in those reports might as well be considered completely and utterly useless. I could not find any mentioned anywhere of the type of sampling methods TransLink used (WHO completed these surveys?), the sample SIZE (HOW MANY people completed these surveys), or any indication about the validity and reliability of the measures they used (WHAT were the specific questions asked?). We have no idea about what the level variability in these responses either. There are many more things I could nit pick, but the main point is that these data are bollocks and can not relied upon. They are simply there to check the box "performance reports publicly shared".

Just briefly, I ran some quick tests on the data they provide (which is only the average AGGREGATED response out of 100 mind you!!!), and for none of the KPIs did I find any of the statistically significant differences in means that they report using red/green text. In other words, none of the things they measured varies (in aggregate) across the time periods presented. Point is, the results in the report cannot be verified using the datasets they provide.

[ozbob]

Media release 27 April 2014



SEQ: Call for 'Glasnost' (openness & accountability) with public transport data

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers has called for the routine public release of detailed and accurate, performance and passenger load data for public transport, as in other the states of Australia (1,2,3,4).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Detailed passenger load and performance data for public transport in south-east Queensland is not made publicly available, yet it is in other states."

"Data made available on the TransLink website is a 'sanitised' version of more complete data for non-public use.We would much prefer the Glasnost 'open and accountable' version!"

On 26 November 2013, The State Government stated; 'Queensland has a broad and complex integrity framework. It aims to ensure the public sector is accountable, honest and sufficiently transparent to encourage public confidence in the way government does business.'

'Our integrity and accountability systems need to be dynamic, responsive and regularly reviewed to ensure they are appropriate, effective and robust. (5).

Jeffrey Addison, Sunshine Coast RAIL Back On Track spokesman says "The time has come to be true to their word."
"Bus performance data has not been published for some time, when it was, it was grossly inaccurate. Other states manage to publish bus data, why the problem with this in Queensland?"

"We call on the State Government to make publicly available (via TransLink) timely and accurate performance and passenger load data for all railway lines, bus and ferry routes, at both peak and non-peak times, and restore our faith in the public transport network."

References:

1. http://corp.ptv.vic.gov.au/managing-victoria-s-public-transport-network/facts-and-figures/

2. http://corp.ptv.vic.gov.au/managing-victoria-s-public-transport-network/track-record/track-record-monthly-performance-bulletin-trains-metropolitan/

3. http://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/AboutUs/Surveysandstatistics/Archivedontimerunningstatistics.aspx

4. http://www.cityrail.info/about/our_performance/otr_summary.jsp

5. http://www.qld.gov.au/about/rights-accountability/open-transparent/review/

Contacts:

Jeff Addison
Sunshine Coast Region Spokesperson for RAIL Back On Track

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

The contempt with which the public is treated is breathtaking.  Queensland Rail has all the data and it should be made available in a collated way for all lines peak and off peak.  What is there to hide?

Bus OTP has always been nonsensical in the past.  Clearly, coming clean is just too hard for this mob.

When was the last patronage made available, 2012?

Snap snot figures are just feel good subjective nonsense in the main.  Real load data with route, line breakdowns, fare types and so forth is the real data.

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

27th April 2014

RE: SEQ: Call for 'Glasnost' (openness & accountability) with public transport data

Greetings,

Becoming clear why the authorities will not come clean with the real public transport data.

No doubt trying to hide efforts like today's dismal train performance.  Multiple cancellations.  Documented here [ http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=1862.msg141457#msg141457 ] because they will not last long on the official TransLink web site ... out of sight out of mind hey?

Bus no shows are common as well, but these tend to be hidden.

The public transport network in SEQ is fast becoming a high priced rip-off disgrace. 

Is there anyone left who can sort it?  Or is bothered to?

Best wishes
Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

Media release 27 April 2014



SEQ: Call for 'Glasnost' (openness & accountability) with public transport data

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers has called for the routine public release of detailed and accurate, performance and passenger load data for public transport, as in other the states of Australia (1,2,3,4).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Detailed passenger load and performance data for public transport in south-east Queensland is not made publicly available, yet it is in other states."

"Data made available on the TransLink website is a 'sanitised' version of more complete data for non-public use.We would much prefer the Glasnost 'open and accountable' version!"

On 26 November 2013, The State Government stated; 'Queensland has a broad and complex integrity framework. It aims to ensure the public sector is accountable, honest and sufficiently transparent to encourage public confidence in the way government does business.'

'Our integrity and accountability systems need to be dynamic, responsive and regularly reviewed to ensure they are appropriate, effective and robust. (5).

Jeffrey Addison, Sunshine Coast RAIL Back On Track spokesman says "The time has come to be true to their word."
"Bus performance data has not been published for some time, when it was, it was grossly inaccurate. Other states manage to publish bus data, why the problem with this in Queensland?"

"We call on the State Government to make publicly available (via TransLink) timely and accurate performance and passenger load data for all railway lines, bus and ferry routes, at both peak and non-peak times, and restore our faith in the public transport network."

References:

1. http://corp.ptv.vic.gov.au/managing-victoria-s-public-transport-network/facts-and-figures/

2. http://corp.ptv.vic.gov.au/managing-victoria-s-public-transport-network/track-record/track-record-monthly-performance-bulletin-trains-metropolitan/

3. http://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/AboutUs/Surveysandstatistics/Archivedontimerunningstatistics.aspx

4. http://www.cityrail.info/about/our_performance/otr_summary.jsp

5. http://www.qld.gov.au/about/rights-accountability/open-transparent/review/

Contacts:

Jeff Addison
Sunshine Coast Region Spokesperson for RAIL Back On Track

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

1st May 2014

Time to do the right thing ...

Greetings,

Yesterday a positive media event at the Mayne Train Control Centre.  Queensland Rail has improved peak on time train performance and is to be congratulated.

The reason we know that Queensland Rail peak performance has improved however is because each day I note the reported peak data and add to our own data set. 

The only data made regularly available in Queensland is peak for the last 5 days!  So unless you capture that it is gone, a bit like the last train at night.  Miss it and you have missed it.

I collate the data and maintain a record here --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?board=73.0

What is not so clear is how is out of peak performance going?  That data is not made available.

Have a look at the routine data made available in Perth

Transperth train system punctuality

--> http://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/AboutUs/Surveysandstatistics.aspx

Note that an individual line break up is given for all lines peak and inter-peak (off peak).

Also archived bus and train on-time running statistics is readily available
--> http://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/AboutUs/Surveysandstatistics/Archivedontimerunningstatistics.aspx

Contrast that to Queensland  ...  when the spin is stripped away it is rather sad hey?

Unless the data is made available regularly as for other jurisdictions we simply don't believe the hype and spin.

For years I pointed out the reported bus on time performance was not correct.

This inaccurate information was even tabled in Parliament! 
So you see, unless we get true openness and transparency we will continue to challenge the charade.

Bus OTP is still not available.  I wonder why?

Have a great day and be grateful that some of us are not as gullible as others.

Best wishes
Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

Media release 27 April 2014



SEQ: Call for 'Glasnost' (openness & accountability) with public transport data

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers has called for the routine public release of detailed and accurate, performance and passenger load data for public transport, as in other the states of Australia (1,2,3,4).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Detailed passenger load and performance data for public transport in south-east Queensland is not made publicly available, yet it is in other states."

"Data made available on the TransLink website is a 'sanitised' version of more complete data for non-public use.We would much prefer the Glasnost 'open and accountable' version!"

On 26 November 2013, The State Government stated; 'Queensland has a broad and complex integrity framework. It aims to ensure the public sector is accountable, honest and sufficiently transparent to encourage public confidence in the way government does business.'

'Our integrity and accountability systems need to be dynamic, responsive and regularly reviewed to ensure they are appropriate, effective and robust. (5).

Jeffrey Addison, Sunshine Coast RAIL Back On Track spokesman says "The time has come to be true to their word."
"Bus performance data has not been published for some time, when it was, it was grossly inaccurate. Other states manage to publish bus data, why the problem with this in Queensland?"

"We call on the State Government to make publicly available (via TransLink) timely and accurate performance and passenger load data for all railway lines, bus and ferry routes, at both peak and non-peak times, and restore our faith in the public transport network."

References:

1. http://corp.ptv.vic.gov.au/managing-victoria-s-public-transport-network/facts-and-figures/

2. http://corp.ptv.vic.gov.au/managing-victoria-s-public-transport-network/track-record/track-record-monthly-performance-bulletin-trains-metropolitan/

3. http://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/AboutUs/Surveysandstatistics/Archivedontimerunningstatistics.aspx

4. http://www.cityrail.info/about/our_performance/otr_summary.jsp

5. http://www.qld.gov.au/about/rights-accountability/open-transparent/review/

Contacts:

Jeff Addison
Sunshine Coast Region Spokesperson for RAIL Back On Track

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Sunshine Coast Region Spokesperson for RAIL Back On Track, Jeff Addison, was interviewed on 612 ABC Brisbane this morning.

Follow up on train OTP.  Thanks for the interest 612!

Great interview Jeff, thanks for stepping up to the plate.

--> http://blogs.abc.net.au/queensland/2014/05/trains-on-time-or-are-they.html

Trains on time - or are they?

01 May 2014 , 8:04 AM by Spencer Howson

If you're currently sitting on the train on the way into work.

Queensland Rail says it's running on time this morning. How often do you think that happens?

On average, around 95.8% of the time, according to the State Government, which released on-time figures yesterday afternoon. But is that the full picture?

[ozbob]

From the Queensland Times 2nd May 2014 page 8

Call to 'tell all' on trains

[ozbob]

Be interesting to know what counter-peak OTP is hey?

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

5th May 2014

Missing in action ...

Greetings,

Well into May and we still have not seen the appearance of the March 2014 TransLink Public transport performance data, a superficial data set indeed.

Still a no show, a frequent event for buses on the network as well.

--> http://translink.com.au/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/public-transport-performance-data

What's the hold up?  Still working out the spin to explain more mediocrity?

Best wishes
Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

1st May 2014

Time to do the right thing ...

Greetings,

Yesterday a positive media event at the Mayne Train Control Centre.  Queensland Rail has improved peak on time train performance and is to be congratulated.

The reason we know that Queensland Rail peak performance has improved however is because each day I note the reported peak data and add to our own data set. 

The only data made regularly available in Queensland is peak for the last 5 days!  So unless you capture that it is gone, a bit like the last train at night.  Miss it and you have missed it.

I collate the data and maintain a record here --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?board=73.0

What is not so clear is how is out of peak performance going?  That data is not made available.

Have a look at the routine data made available in Perth

Transperth train system punctuality

--> http://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/AboutUs/Surveysandstatistics.aspx

Note that an individual line break up is given for all lines peak and inter-peak (off peak).

Also archived bus and train on-time running statistics is readily available
--> http://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/AboutUs/Surveysandstatistics/Archivedontimerunningstatistics.aspx

Contrast that to Queensland  ...  when the spin is stripped away it is rather sad hey?

Unless the data is made available regularly as for other jurisdictions we simply don't believe the hype and spin.

For years I pointed out the reported bus on time performance was not correct.

This inaccurate information was even tabled in Parliament! 
So you see, unless we get true openness and transparency we will continue to challenge the charade.

Bus OTP is still not available.  I wonder why?

Have a great day and be grateful that some of us are not as gullible as others.

Best wishes
Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

Media release 27 April 2014



SEQ: Call for 'Glasnost' (openness & accountability) with public transport data

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers has called for the routine public release of detailed and accurate, performance and passenger load data for public transport, as in other the states of Australia (1,2,3,4).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Detailed passenger load and performance data for public transport in south-east Queensland is not made publicly available, yet it is in other states."

"Data made available on the TransLink website is a 'sanitised' version of more complete data for non-public use.We would much prefer the Glasnost 'open and accountable' version!"

On 26 November 2013, The State Government stated; 'Queensland has a broad and complex integrity framework. It aims to ensure the public sector is accountable, honest and sufficiently transparent to encourage public confidence in the way government does business.'

'Our integrity and accountability systems need to be dynamic, responsive and regularly reviewed to ensure they are appropriate, effective and robust. (5).

Jeffrey Addison, Sunshine Coast RAIL Back On Track spokesman says "The time has come to be true to their word."
"Bus performance data has not been published for some time, when it was, it was grossly inaccurate. Other states manage to publish bus data, why the problem with this in Queensland?"

"We call on the State Government to make publicly available (via TransLink) timely and accurate performance and passenger load data for all railway lines, bus and ferry routes, at both peak and non-peak times, and restore our faith in the public transport network."

References:

1. http://corp.ptv.vic.gov.au/managing-victoria-s-public-transport-network/facts-and-figures/

2. http://corp.ptv.vic.gov.au/managing-victoria-s-public-transport-network/track-record/track-record-monthly-performance-bulletin-trains-metropolitan/

3. http://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/AboutUs/Surveysandstatistics/Archivedontimerunningstatistics.aspx

4. http://www.cityrail.info/about/our_performance/otr_summary.jsp

5. http://www.qld.gov.au/about/rights-accountability/open-transparent/review/

Contacts:

Jeff Addison
Sunshine Coast Region Spokesperson for RAIL Back On Track

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Twitter

Robert Dow ‏@Robert_Dow 7 minutes ago

Bus OTP? We would like to see that .. > http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10641.msg140793#msg140793 ... #qldpol #auspol #busfailBCC #busreform #secretstate