Campaign priorities Queensland votes!

[pandmaster]

Transport in general has not been an issue at this election. PT is not getting the coverage it deserves and (thankfully) there have not been any major road projects announced (not even an Ashgrove to City road tunnel pork barrel). Despite the ads claiming that the Queensland economy is on track for massive growth this year, no one is keen to commit the tax funds to anything (I assume part of this is because the LNG is practically being given away). The LNP plans to hock off as many assets as they can and yet not much of that money has been committed to infrastructure. A dud deal I think.

[ozbob]

There could be a lesson for RailBOT -- next time round organise ourselves to attend the various 'met the candidate' nights with a number of questions to ask of each candidate re public transport.  Go direct to the candidates, not the faceless men and women.  Letters would be useless, just keep hitting them in front of voters, at public meetings.  The media reports those meetings.

I have attended a number of forums.  One person cannot do it all.   Public transport has featured constantly in forums and local newspapers.  The main stream media and parties are simply bypassing it.  Public transport is a sleeper issue and will influence the election outcome.  Labor are being very foolish in not putting the LNP under pressure on this.  Labor has some good basic policy initiatives but they are not articulating them or challenging the status quo.  I had hoped they learned from the 2012 disaster.  Remember they announced a 'free after two journeys for all '2 or 3 days before actual voting day! Absurd policy panic.

Not over yet ...

[ozbob]

Sunshine Coast Daily 23rd January 2015 page 3

RACQ backs rail project



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

^ everyone is a bit surprised that ALP has not matched anything much in PT.  A few vague policy one liners ... is that all?

[ozbob]

Well ... well ... what a surprise!   

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

Twitter

Political Alert ‏@political_alert 45 seconds ago

Deputy OL Tanya Plibersek will hold a doorstop interview in Brisbane at 11.30am (local time) today to discuss Qld public transport #qldvotes

[#Metro]

Deputy OL Tanya Plibersek will hold a doorstop interview in Brisbane at 11.30am (local time) today to discuss Qld public transport #qldvotes

Hold on folks! What are the chances it will be scare campaign overdrive?

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

23rd January 2015

Campaign priorities Queensland votes!

Greetings,

Well one of our major election priorities for the election has been addressed by the LNP, viz. Track amplification of the Sunshine Coast Line north of Beerburrum.

Still more to do however.

These are the major issues for public transport for SEQ that we will be looking for definite policy commitments from all parties and independents.

1. Failure to deliver proper bus network reform for Brisbane.

The State Government, BCC particularly and by inference TransLink have failed the community on this.  It also is a factor in the fare system unaffordability.

2. Failure to deliver proper fare reform for SEQ.  A 5% cut, with fare costs frozen for 2015, is only a cut that had to happen as a consequence of the carbon tax repeal which was dressed up as a political stunt and will not do it.  Far from it.  Fares for urban bus (regional) Queensland are fine.

3. CRR versus BaT.  We have shown conclusively that the bus component of the BaT is a massive waste. Proper network reform is all that is needed for the bus network.  BaT is a half baked project more a political solution than a well grounded sustainable transport solution.

4. Stage 2 of the Gold Coast Light Rail - ideally in place before the 2018 Commonwealth Games.

5. Track amplification of the Sunshine Coast Line north of Beerburrum.  Duplication from Beerburrum to Landsborough North is the first priority, with some additional passing arrangements put in place between Landsborough North and Gympie North.

There are a myriad of local issues as well of course.  But if these major issues are addressed, the rest will follow.

Best wishes
Robert

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

[ozbob]

Twitter

Larissa Waters ‏@larissawaters 24 minutes ago

On way to launch @QldGreens policy for more affordable, frequent public transport. Fairer fares & zones! #qldvotes

[#Metro]

Yes, had a chat with a Greens, gave me a flyer. Will post this, good PT policy. Staffer was unable to explain how they would reduce the cost of PT, just referred me to the website...

[ozbob]

Media release 24th January 2015

SEQ: Fare unaffordability crisis - fare & network reform needed!

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 said the TransLink performance snap shot data for December 2014 has again confirmed that fare 'affordability' remains at crisis levels. Worst KPI is ' affordability ' by a huge measure. Where are the detailed policy plans to sort out this disaster from the LNP and the ALP?

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Fares for public transport in SEQ have gone up in real terms (compound) around 83% for go card and 114% for paper single tickets during the period 2010 - January 2014 (1). A recent 5% decrease in November has only had a marginal effect. The Affordability KPI remains most unsatisfactory and is a standout failure."

"CPI for the period 2010-2014 has gone up around 10% (2).  The sheer magnitude of the fare increases  stagnated and falling patronage on public transport in SEQ.  Fare box revenue is also on the slide.  To continue on this failed fare path is not in the interests of anyone."

"It is then no surprise then that affordability is again the stand out failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs for December 2014 (3).

"It is a great disappointment to our members, and to many informed public transport users that rather than take the big steps to sort out the failed fare system and the network once and for all, in the shadows of the election a charade poll was put to the public - suggesting that a windfall gain from the cancelled carbon tax can be used to fund cut in fares of 5%."

"Fares on qconnect and TransLinkQLD (Cairns) urban buses are around half to a third the cost of fares in SEQ.  Service improvements would be far more important for these jurisdictions, but they were simply done over by the numbers in SEQ on the poll."

"A new balanced fare system needs to be put in place immediately for SEQ, rather than just a notional cut.  A fare system that drives patronage around the clock, is affordable and fair to all demographics.  The present free after nine paid journeys is easily rorted and is adding to further cost pressures for high base fares. This failed fare paradigm was introduced by the former State Government as free after 10 paid journeys in a week. The Newman Government simply carried on the basic flawed paradigm by changing it 9 paid journeys in a week as the threshold. The end result has been worsening patronage, a failed fare box and  worsening affordability overall."

"The nine and free fare paradigm is leading to massive fare box leakage and is NOT making fares affordable at all, the TransLink Affordability KPI attests to that.  It is just a massive rort and a drain on the fare box! (4)"

"We have seen fuel prices fall lately.  This in time is going to mean that more people will abandon public transport in SEQ due to the very poor anti-public transport fare system.  Road congestion will only worsen.  Road trauma costs will further exacerbate."

"Will we see some moves to sensible fare and network reform as part of the forthcoming Queensland election?  The Greens have outlined a plan, the LNP and ALP are yet to do so."

"There are very big cost savings to be made to the economy by getting people back on public transport with a sound fare system and a truly connected network.  Fares in SEQ are amongst the worlds most expensive. Token fare cuts do very little without real reform.  Time to act decisively, SEQ votes soon!"

Contact:

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


1. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10048.msg135186#msg135186

2. http://www.oesr.qld.gov.au/products/tables/cpi-all-groups-bris-wt-avg-eight-qtr/index.php

3. http://translink.com.au/sites/default/files/assets/resources/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/open-data/2014-Dec-snapshot.pdf  pages 1 & 14

4. 16 Jun 2014: SEQ: Flawed cost estimates for the nine and free go card rort?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10765.0

5. KPI Summary December2014
http://backontrack.org/images/tl/summarydec14.jpg


6. KPI Affordability December 2014
http://backontrack.org/images/tl/affordabilitydec14.jpg

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

25th January 2015

Re: SEQ: Fare unaffordability crisis - fare & network reform needed!

Greetings,

It is some what disturbing that SEQ still has a failed fare system.  There can be no doubt about that, TransLink's own KPIs show that affordability is unacceptable and has been a factor in the patronage dropping off.

Related to this the very poor network design for the bus network in Brisbane.

One week to go to voting day.  The Greens have put forward a good plan for fare & network  reform.  See Lower Fares, Better Services-->  http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11136.msg151843#msg151843

Labor have a one liner in a 2014 policy document. '7.62 Labor will review the public transport fare system to improve affordability in South East Queensland' --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11178.msg151090#msg151090

LNP have a vague committment " ... there's more to do " .. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11201.msg151372#msg151372

The failure of the fare system for SEQ has been obvious for years.  In fact in January 2013, the Premier Campbell Newman in the Six Month Action indicated that there would be a new fare structure for SEQ by June 2013.

"Announce new fare structure for public transport in South East Queensland." http://www.thepremier.qld.gov.au/plans-and-progress/plans/assets/6-month-action-plan-jan-jun-13.pdf  page 6

Another broken promise.

We are still waiting. A 5% fare cut (courtesy of carbon tax repeal) and not increasing fares in the face of an election is NOT a new fare structure. Increasing fares 3 times CPI instead of 6 times CPI is NOT a new fare structure.

The last time a Government pulled the fare freeze con in the shadows of an election they were eventually sent to political oblivion.

QLD Election 2015: Will the punters be hit with 20% plus fare increases after the show? http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11195.0

The public of SEQ is being treated like idiots by the LNP and ALP.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Media release 24th January 2015

SEQ: Fare unaffordability crisis - fare & network reform needed!

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 said the TransLink performance snap shot data for December 2014 has again confirmed that fare 'affordability' remains at crisis levels. Worst KPI is ' affordability ' by a huge measure. Where are the detailed policy plans to sort out this disaster from the LNP and the ALP?

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Fares for public transport in SEQ have gone up in real terms (compound) around 83% for go card and 114% for paper single tickets during the period 2010 - January 2014 (1). A recent 5% decrease in November has only had a marginal effect. The Affordability KPI remains most unsatisfactory and is a standout failure."

"CPI for the period 2010-2014 has gone up around 10% (2).  The sheer magnitude of the fare increases  stagnated and falling patronage on public transport in SEQ.  Fare box revenue is also on the slide.  To continue on this failed fare path is not in the interests of anyone."

"It is then no surprise then that affordability is again the stand out failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs for December 2014 (3).

"It is a great disappointment to our members, and to many informed public transport users that rather than take the big steps to sort out the failed fare system and the network once and for all, in the shadows of the election a charade poll was put to the public - suggesting that a windfall gain from the cancelled carbon tax can be used to fund cut in fares of 5%."

"Fares on qconnect and TransLinkQLD (Cairns) urban buses are around half to a third the cost of fares in SEQ.  Service improvements would be far more important for these jurisdictions, but they were simply done over by the numbers in SEQ on the poll."

"A new balanced fare system needs to be put in place immediately for SEQ, rather than just a notional cut.  A fare system that drives patronage around the clock, is affordable and fair to all demographics.  The present free after nine paid journeys is easily rorted and is adding to further cost pressures for high base fares. This failed fare paradigm was introduced by the former State Government as free after 10 paid journeys in a week. The Newman Government simply carried on the basic flawed paradigm by changing it 9 paid journeys in a week as the threshold. The end result has been worsening patronage, a failed fare box and  worsening affordability overall."

"The nine and free fare paradigm is leading to massive fare box leakage and is NOT making fares affordable at all, the TransLink Affordability KPI attests to that.  It is just a massive rort and a drain on the fare box! (4)"

"We have seen fuel prices fall lately.  This in time is going to mean that more people will abandon public transport in SEQ due to the very poor anti-public transport fare system.  Road congestion will only worsen.  Road trauma costs will further exacerbate."

"Will we see some moves to sensible fare and network reform as part of the forthcoming Queensland election?  The Greens have outlined a plan, the LNP and ALP are yet to do so."

"There are very big cost savings to be made to the economy by getting people back on public transport with a sound fare system and a truly connected network.  Fares in SEQ are amongst the worlds most expensive. Token fare cuts do very little without real reform.  Time to act decisively, SEQ votes soon!"

Contact:

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


1. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10048.msg135186#msg135186

2. http://www.oesr.qld.gov.au/products/tables/cpi-all-groups-bris-wt-avg-eight-qtr/index.php

3. http://translink.com.au/sites/default/files/assets/resources/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/open-data/2014-Dec-snapshot.pdf  pages 1 & 14

4. 16 Jun 2014: SEQ: Flawed cost estimates for the nine and free go card rort?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10765.0

5. KPI Summary December2014
http://backontrack.org/images/tl/summarydec14.jpg


6. KPI Affordability December 2014
http://backontrack.org/images/tl/affordabilitydec14.jpg

[ozbob]

Twitter

Robert Dow ‏@Robert_Dow 14 minutes ago

. @scottemerson @SteveMinnikinMP @jackietrad Serious navel gazing time .. > http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11227.msg151905#msg151905 ... #qldvotes #qldpol #farefailSEQ

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

26th January 2015

Re: Brisbane Bus Reform: Brisbane City Council's Bus Network - What Went Wrong?

Greetings,

It matters little who is Government after next week, they are going to have to address the failed bus network for Brisbane.  TransLink attempted to do the right thing in 2013, non-cooperation by BCC basically torpedoed their efforts.  We don't think BCC will be able to get away with intransigence again - putting political self interest ahead of the broader community interest.  Weak leadership at the state level was also a factor.

Our members have worked for the past year in putting together detailed maps of the current and a proposed bus network for Brisbane.  It has cost Queensland nothing but many hours of dedicated committment by our members.

A series of media releases has been made available  and these are grouped together here
--> Bus reform - our proposal media releases grouped   http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11099.0

New Bus Network Proposal > http://tiny.cc/newnetwork
New Bus Network Proposal Survey > http://tiny.cc/busreform
Current BCC Bus Network > http://tiny.cc/checkyourbus

We do not claim that our proposed network is THE solution, it is a solution.  No doubt private bus operators everywhere have taken close note though as they prepare for competitive tendering.

Public transport in Queensland needs reform generally. Queensland: Call for an Inquiry into Public Transport -->   http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11184.0

The political party that addresses the critical issues of fare and network reform in detail as part of their policy platform, will probably be the party that determines the make-up of the  new state Government.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Media release 6th January 2015

Brisbane Bus Reform: Brisbane City Council's Bus Network - What Went Wrong?

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 today releases a summary report into issues with BCC's bus network and calls all parties contesting the 2015 Queensland Election to support bus reform.

As part of our New Bus Network Proposal for Brisbane, we release an additional summary report detailing what went wrong with the BCC bus network. The Lord Mayor is on record stating that the BCC bus network is 'not broken'. We disagree. Now, anybody can download our report and see why fares escalated.

Download Report Here > Frequency is Freedom  PDF 4.8MB

We show:

    * Who gets frequent bus service in Brisbane, and the suburbs that are public transport black holes under BCC's 'no transfer' philosophy (pages 5 - 8 ).

    * How bus reforms rejected by BCC are being implemented in Brisbane's sister city of Auckland, New Zealand (page 10).  A package of improvements in Auckland has seen train patronage grow 17% (2014) and bus patronage grow 7% (2014). In contrast, Brisbane bus patronage fell by 1 million and traffic congestion increased by 3%.

    * The cost escalation mechanism. Upgrading the bus network while insisting all buses drive direct to the CBD and not adjusting the surrounding legacy network leads to escalating costs which implies increased fares. (pages 11 - 12)

    * How BCCs bus network and anti-interchange philosophy places buses exactly where they are least required, wasting resources and congesting the Brisbane CBD. As an example we analyse the Moggill Rd/Coronation Drive corridor showing that this also leads to too few buses in the suburbs, causing long waits for BCC's own residents. (Pages 14 -16)

    * How BCCs bus network philosophy leads to a bus network that leaves entire suburbs without decent bus service (e.g. Yeronga, Bulimba, Centenary, Albany Creek) (Page 17 - 18)

    * How BCCs bus network philosophy leads to an enormously complicated, fragmented, expensive-to-run, low frequency network in the suburbs. (i.e. 15 different bus routes to the Centenary suburbs, where none frequent). Despite BCC's in-house 2013 review, examples still exist of where service does not properly match the distribution of residents and straightening is required (Page 20).

Our analysis suggests Brisbane City Council was a key driving force behind the escalating 15% fare increases. While BCC does not set fares, it does set bus supplier costs, and obviously, higher costs equals higher fares. Private bus operators bidding for contracts within the Brisbane area should offer to do what BCC refuses to do - offer to run a simple, frequent and connected-style bus network.

The sooner Brisbane gets new bus operators that are willing and able to undertake the difficult task of bus network reform, the sooner fares can come down and patronage falls reversed.

Contact:

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

References:

City's public transport will never improve while run by opposing sides Couriermail 11th April 2012 pages 18-19
http://backontrack.org/docs/cm/cm_11apr12_p18.jpg
http://backontrack.org/docs/cm/cm_11apr12_p19.jpg

Coronation Drive Analysis (Diagram)



http://s998.photobucket.com/user/tramtrain/media/BR_wasteogram_zps01c22678.png.html

Brizcommuter
http://brizcommuter.blogspot.com.au/2013/04/brisbane-city-council-bus-network.html
http://brizcommuter.blogspot.com.au/2013/03/brisbane-city-council.html
http://brizcommuter.blogspot.com.au/2013/03/more-of-brisbane-city-councils-not.html

New Year, New Bus Operators?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11164.0

2014 – A Year in Review Part 1 – PT, Auckland Transport Blog
http://transportblog.co.nz/2014/12/29/2014-a-year-in-review-part-1-pt/

Brisbane Buses: Call for CityGlider in Centenary Suburbs
http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/brisbane-buses-call-for-cityglider-in-centenary-suburbs-20141104-11gxl3.html

New Bus Network Proposal > http://tiny.cc/newnetwork
New Bus Network Proposal Survey > http://tiny.cc/busreform
Current BCC Bus Network > http://tiny.cc/checkyourbus

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

27rd January 2015

Public transport matters

Greetings,

Well one of our major election priorities for the election has been addressed by the LNP, viz. Track amplification of the Sunshine Coast Line north of Beerburrum.

Still a lot more to do however.

These are the major issues for public transport for SEQ that we will be looking for definite policy commitments from all parties and independents.

1. Failure to deliver proper bus network reform for Brisbane.

The State Government, BCC particularly and by inference TransLink have failed the community on this.  It also is a factor in the fare system unaffordability.

2. Failure to deliver proper fare reform for SEQ.  A 5% cut, with fare costs frozen for 2015, is only a cut that had to happen as a consequence of the carbon tax repeal which was dressed up as a political stunt and will not do it.  Far from it.  Fares for urban bus (regional) Queensland are fine.

3. CRR versus BaT.  We have shown conclusively that the bus component of the BaT is a massive waste. Proper network reform is all that is needed for the bus network.  BaT is a half baked project more a political solution than a well grounded sustainable transport solution.

4. Stage 2 of the Gold Coast Light Rail - ideally in place before the 2018 Commonwealth Games.

5. Track amplification of the Sunshine Coast Line north of Beerburrum.  Duplication from Beerburrum to Landsborough North is the first priority, with some additional passing arrangements put in place between Landsborough North and Gympie North.

The major political parties are treating public transport users with some contempt.  Time they all come clean on the major issues.  The election will turn on the seats in SEQ.  Rational and coherent fare and network reform policies would be the smart thing to do.  Have they missed the bus?

Best wishes
Robert

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

[Stillwater]

One wonders, in the dying days of the election campaign, whether there will be cats pulled from bags on the public transport front.  No doubt, the major parties will have good polling about pockets of dissatisfaction across all electorates, not just by electorate.  For instance, is there a significant voting block among younger voters disaffected because of the tertiary card scheme?  Are older voters telling pollsters that they risk being shut-ins because of the high cost of PT fares to them?  Will these issues, and others, register in a way that LNP and ALP will see value in an announcement or two that would try and swing blocs of swinging voters by demographic as opposed to their geographic distribution by electorate, where the approach seems to have been to buy off electorates with a new football field there, a new classroom block over there, etc.

[techblitz]

students like to work in groups when protesting or campaigning......unfortunately most uni students are still in internship and/or holiday/backpacking mode......election will be done and dusted by the time they get back......

if you ve been keeping your eye on news articles since original translink review...you would note that the elderly have paid most attention to the thier local routes being cut/adjusted.....this is what they are most vocal about......fares take a back stage since many of them already recieve concessions.....some concession seniors would be unhappy....but would definitely be a minority...
The most stinkup regarding fares comes from the ones who have to pay the full fare........theres no better example than the vocal uprising on facebook from students who were forced to pay full fare while waiting for thier tertiary card....any other day they probably wouldnt have cared...

[ozbob]

COTA, QCOSS and others have made a number of representations to Government re fares for various constituents.   Government doesn't care a rat's behind ...

[ozbob]

Submitted to the Queensland Times 28th January 2015

Letter to the editor - fair fares

Dear Editor,

The major issue for public transport in SEQ is the unaffordable, bizarre fare structure.  What do the major parties propose to do about it?

The Greens have a plan to reduce public transport fares back to 2010 levels and modernise our  transport fare zones to make it fairer and cheaper for those living outside the city centre to alleviate the cost of living pressures and boost usage.

The ALP plan to deliver a detailed review of the fare structure conducted by an expert panel to establish a future fare structure that is fair, affordable and designed to boost patronage across the network.

The LNP have a vague committment " ... there's more to do ".

Certainly is more to do.

Vote early!

Yours sincerely,

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

[ozbob]

Twitter

Shane Doherty ‏@ShaneDoherty9 5 minutes ago Brisbane, Queensland

GC light rail stage 2 confirmed @theqldpremier #qldvotes #9News

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

BINGO !   

[ozbob]

Twitter

Shane Doherty ‏@ShaneDoherty9 12 minutes

'Reconfirming Bat tunnel' @theqldpremier tell fundraiser #qldpol #qldvotes #9News

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

29th January 2015

Re: SEQ: Fare unaffordability crisis - fare & network reform needed!

Greetings,

The election is on a knife edge.  It should not be scream the pundits.

Two major items from our election campaign priorities remains ( http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11066.0 ) viz. fare and network reform for SEQ.

Both the Greens and ALP have indicated they will move to sort these issues.  LNP has not indicated what it will do with respect to fare and network reform for SEQ.

Consider this:

Labor's governing majority between 1989 to 2012 was built on its dominance in greater Brisbane. After its re-election under Anna Bligh in 2009, Labor held 34 of the 40 seats in greater Brisbane, having held as many as 39 in 2001 and 2004. When Labor won only 31 greater Brisbane seats at the 1995 election the Goss government was left clinging to power, and 33 seats delivered Labor's only minority government in 1998. Labor was reduced to only four greater Brisbane seats in 2012, which indicates where Labor has the opportunity to make most gains in 2015.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-10-17/2015-qld-election-preview/5937752

Not rocket science.  Paid spin doctor armies fail to see the obvious hey?

Vote early.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

25th January 2015

Re: SEQ: Fare unaffordability crisis - fare & network reform needed!

Greetings,

It is some what disturbing that SEQ still has a failed fare system.  There can be no doubt about that, TransLink's own KPIs show that affordability is unacceptable and has been a factor in the patronage dropping off.

Related to this the very poor network design for the bus network in Brisbane.

One week to go to voting day.  The Greens have put forward a good plan for fare & network  reform.  See Lower Fares, Better Services-->  http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11136.msg151843#msg151843

Labor have a one liner in a 2014 policy document. '7.62 Labor will review the public transport fare system to improve affordability in South East Queensland' --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11178.msg151090#msg151090

LNP have a vague committment " ... there's more to do " .. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11201.msg151372#msg151372

The failure of the fare system for SEQ has been obvious for years.  In fact in January 2013, the Premier Campbell Newman in the Six Month Action indicated that there would be a new fare structure for SEQ by June 2013.

"Announce new fare structure for public transport in South East Queensland." http://www.thepremier.qld.gov.au/plans-and-progress/plans/assets/6-month-action-plan-jan-jun-13.pdf  page 6

Another broken promise.

We are still waiting. A 5% fare cut (courtesy of carbon tax repeal) and not increasing fares in the face of an election is NOT a new fare structure. Increasing fares 3 times CPI instead of 6 times CPI is NOT a new fare structure.

The last time a Government pulled the fare freeze con in the shadows of an election they were eventually sent to political oblivion.

QLD Election 2015: Will the punters be hit with 20% plus fare increases after the show? http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11195.0

The public of SEQ is being treated like idiots by the LNP and ALP.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Media release 24th January 2015

SEQ: Fare unaffordability crisis - fare & network reform needed!

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 said the TransLink performance snap shot data for December 2014 has again confirmed that fare 'affordability' remains at crisis levels. Worst KPI is ' affordability ' by a huge measure. Where are the detailed policy plans to sort out this disaster from the LNP and the ALP?

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Fares for public transport in SEQ have gone up in real terms (compound) around 83% for go card and 114% for paper single tickets during the period 2010 - January 2014 (1). A recent 5% decrease in November has only had a marginal effect. The Affordability KPI remains most unsatisfactory and is a standout failure."

"CPI for the period 2010-2014 has gone up around 10% (2).  The sheer magnitude of the fare increases  stagnated and falling patronage on public transport in SEQ.  Fare box revenue is also on the slide.  To continue on this failed fare path is not in the interests of anyone."

"It is then no surprise then that affordability is again the stand out failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs for December 2014 (3).

"It is a great disappointment to our members, and to many informed public transport users that rather than take the big steps to sort out the failed fare system and the network once and for all, in the shadows of the election a charade poll was put to the public - suggesting that a windfall gain from the cancelled carbon tax can be used to fund cut in fares of 5%."

"Fares on qconnect and TransLinkQLD (Cairns) urban buses are around half to a third the cost of fares in SEQ.  Service improvements would be far more important for these jurisdictions, but they were simply done over by the numbers in SEQ on the poll."

"A new balanced fare system needs to be put in place immediately for SEQ, rather than just a notional cut.  A fare system that drives patronage around the clock, is affordable and fair to all demographics.  The present free after nine paid journeys is easily rorted and is adding to further cost pressures for high base fares. This failed fare paradigm was introduced by the former State Government as free after 10 paid journeys in a week. The Newman Government simply carried on the basic flawed paradigm by changing it 9 paid journeys in a week as the threshold. The end result has been worsening patronage, a failed fare box and  worsening affordability overall."

"The nine and free fare paradigm is leading to massive fare box leakage and is NOT making fares affordable at all, the TransLink Affordability KPI attests to that.  It is just a massive rort and a drain on the fare box! (4)"

"We have seen fuel prices fall lately.  This in time is going to mean that more people will abandon public transport in SEQ due to the very poor anti-public transport fare system.  Road congestion will only worsen.  Road trauma costs will further exacerbate."

"Will we see some moves to sensible fare and network reform as part of the forthcoming Queensland election?  The Greens have outlined a plan, the LNP and ALP are yet to do so."

"There are very big cost savings to be made to the economy by getting people back on public transport with a sound fare system and a truly connected network.  Fares in SEQ are amongst the worlds most expensive. Token fare cuts do very little without real reform.  Time to act decisively, SEQ votes soon!"

Contact:

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


1. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10048.msg135186#msg135186

2. http://www.oesr.qld.gov.au/products/tables/cpi-all-groups-bris-wt-avg-eight-qtr/index.php

3. http://translink.com.au/sites/default/files/assets/resources/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/open-data/2014-Dec-snapshot.pdf  pages 1 & 14

4. 16 Jun 2014: SEQ: Flawed cost estimates for the nine and free go card rort?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10765.0

5. KPI Summary December2014
http://backontrack.org/images/tl/summarydec14.jpg


6. KPI Affordability December 2014
http://backontrack.org/images/tl/affordabilitydec14.jpg

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

29th January 2015

Support Bus Reform: Win Queensland State Election?

Image: Ashgrove Electorate Bus Reform. More buses, more often and new direct and frequent buses to UQ.


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 calls all parties contesting the 2015 Queensland Election to unconditionally support bus reform.

The Queensland 2015 election is on a knife edge, and could result in a hung parliament. With the result so close, every electorate and vote counts. No other policy is so advantageous to a political party than adopting bus reform across the entire City of Brisbane. Why?

* Bus Reform is the only policy that gives local improvements to almost all Brisbane Electorates, including marginal electorates such as Brisbane Central, Ashgrove and Bulimba.

* Bus Reform affects 26 electorates out of the 89 electorates represented in the Queensland Parliament.

* Bus Reform is an exceptionally low-cost policy, already mostly funded by recycling waste and inefficiencies within the existing Brisbane City Council Bus Network. It is fully affordable.

* Bus Reform can be rapidly implemented as it requires no new major infrastructure, no new rail lines,  no new busways and no grovelling for funds from Canberra.

* New high quality, high frequency bus services to Yeronga (Hi 196), Bulimba (Hi 230 BulimbaGlider), The Centenary Suburbs (Hi 400 CentenaryGlider) and Albany Creek (Hi 359).

* New, 900 Series CityConnector bus services allowing freedom of movement and liberty for multi-destinational passengers.

* Increases patronage, increases environmental benefits and reduces subsidy required over time, ultimately saving money.

* 'Off the shelf' network plan - fully prepared network maps comparing the current Brisbane City Council bus network to our New Bus Network Proposal. Our proposals are provided publicly and free of charge on the internet for download or viewing from anybody's home computer.

With an election this close, any political party would be mad not to support bus reform. It is not too late to support Bus Reform and announce new bus services across all of Brisbane in a single, citywide, massive upgrade. The political party that offers genuine reform of rail and bus networks, together with fare reform, is the political party able to guarantee low cost and abundant public transport for all.

Don't miss the bus!

Best wishes
Robert

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


References:

New Bus Network Proposal > http://tiny.cc/newnetwork

New Bus Network Proposal Survey > http://tiny.cc/busreform

Current BCC Bus Network > http://tiny.cc/checkyourbus

Brisbane Bus Reform: Brisbane City Council's Bus Network - What Went Wrong?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11175.0

Brisbane Bus Reform: Even More Buses For Ashgrove Electorate
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11127.0

Brisbane Bus Reform: More Buses, More Often For Ashgrove Electorate
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11072.0

[ozbob]

Letter to the Editor Queensland Times published 29th January 2015 page 15

Call for parties to get public transport issues on track

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

30th January 2015

Queensland votes - nearly there ...

Greetings,

Well Queensland Votes 2015 nearly over.  LNP have put forward some good initiatives but have not addressed fare reform for SEQ.  This could prove costly.

There is a paucity of detail from the ALP on public transport issues, some broad commitments though.

The Greens detailed a good public transport policy.

Our campaign priorities we listed here last November -->   http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11066.msg148766#msg148766

Both the LNP and ALP have not heeded the lessons of history.

Enjoy the snags if you haven't voted already.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

29th January 2015

Re: SEQ: Fare unaffordability crisis - fare & network reform needed!

Greetings,

The election is on a knife edge.  It should not be scream the pundits.

Two major items from our election campaign priorities remains ( http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11066.0 ) viz. fare and network reform for SEQ.

Both the Greens and ALP have indicated they will move to sort these issues.  LNP has not indicated what it will do with respect to fare and network reform for SEQ.

Consider this:

Labor's governing majority between 1989 to 2012 was built on its dominance in greater Brisbane. After its re-election under Anna Bligh in 2009, Labor held 34 of the 40 seats in greater Brisbane, having held as many as 39 in 2001 and 2004. When Labor won only 31 greater Brisbane seats at the 1995 election the Goss government was left clinging to power, and 33 seats delivered Labor's only minority government in 1998. Labor was reduced to only four greater Brisbane seats in 2012, which indicates where Labor has the opportunity to make most gains in 2015.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-10-17/2015-qld-election-preview/5937752

Not rocket science.  Paid spin doctor armies fail to see the obvious hey?

Vote early.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

25th January 2015

Re: SEQ: Fare unaffordability crisis - fare & network reform needed!

Greetings,

It is some what disturbing that SEQ still has a failed fare system.  There can be no doubt about that, TransLink's own KPIs show that affordability is unacceptable and has been a factor in the patronage dropping off.

Related to this the very poor network design for the bus network in Brisbane.

One week to go to voting day.  The Greens have put forward a good plan for fare & network  reform.  See Lower Fares, Better Services-->  http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11136.msg151843#msg151843

Labor have a one liner in a 2014 policy document. '7.62 Labor will review the public transport fare system to improve affordability in South East Queensland' --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11178.msg151090#msg151090

LNP have a vague committment " ... there's more to do " .. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11201.msg151372#msg151372

The failure of the fare system for SEQ has been obvious for years.  In fact in January 2013, the Premier Campbell Newman in the Six Month Action indicated that there would be a new fare structure for SEQ by June 2013.

"Announce new fare structure for public transport in South East Queensland." http://www.thepremier.qld.gov.au/plans-and-progress/plans/assets/6-month-action-plan-jan-jun-13.pdf  page 6

Another broken promise.

We are still waiting. A 5% fare cut (courtesy of carbon tax repeal) and not increasing fares in the face of an election is NOT a new fare structure. Increasing fares 3 times CPI instead of 6 times CPI is NOT a new fare structure.

The last time a Government pulled the fare freeze con in the shadows of an election they were eventually sent to political oblivion.

QLD Election 2015: Will the punters be hit with 20% plus fare increases after the show? http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11195.0

The public of SEQ is being treated like idiots by the LNP and ALP.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Media release 24th January 2015

SEQ: Fare unaffordability crisis - fare & network reform needed!

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 said the TransLink performance snap shot data for December 2014 has again confirmed that fare 'affordability' remains at crisis levels. Worst KPI is ' affordability ' by a huge measure. Where are the detailed policy plans to sort out this disaster from the LNP and the ALP?

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Fares for public transport in SEQ have gone up in real terms (compound) around 83% for go card and 114% for paper single tickets during the period 2010 - January 2014 (1). A recent 5% decrease in November has only had a marginal effect. The Affordability KPI remains most unsatisfactory and is a standout failure."

"CPI for the period 2010-2014 has gone up around 10% (2).  The sheer magnitude of the fare increases  stagnated and falling patronage on public transport in SEQ.  Fare box revenue is also on the slide.  To continue on this failed fare path is not in the interests of anyone."

"It is then no surprise then that affordability is again the stand out failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs for December 2014 (3).

"It is a great disappointment to our members, and to many informed public transport users that rather than take the big steps to sort out the failed fare system and the network once and for all, in the shadows of the election a charade poll was put to the public - suggesting that a windfall gain from the cancelled carbon tax can be used to fund cut in fares of 5%."

"Fares on qconnect and TransLinkQLD (Cairns) urban buses are around half to a third the cost of fares in SEQ.  Service improvements would be far more important for these jurisdictions, but they were simply done over by the numbers in SEQ on the poll."

"A new balanced fare system needs to be put in place immediately for SEQ, rather than just a notional cut.  A fare system that drives patronage around the clock, is affordable and fair to all demographics.  The present free after nine paid journeys is easily rorted and is adding to further cost pressures for high base fares. This failed fare paradigm was introduced by the former State Government as free after 10 paid journeys in a week. The Newman Government simply carried on the basic flawed paradigm by changing it 9 paid journeys in a week as the threshold. The end result has been worsening patronage, a failed fare box and  worsening affordability overall."

"The nine and free fare paradigm is leading to massive fare box leakage and is NOT making fares affordable at all, the TransLink Affordability KPI attests to that.  It is just a massive rort and a drain on the fare box! (4)"

"We have seen fuel prices fall lately.  This in time is going to mean that more people will abandon public transport in SEQ due to the very poor anti-public transport fare system.  Road congestion will only worsen.  Road trauma costs will further exacerbate."

"Will we see some moves to sensible fare and network reform as part of the forthcoming Queensland election?  The Greens have outlined a plan, the LNP and ALP are yet to do so."

"There are very big cost savings to be made to the economy by getting people back on public transport with a sound fare system and a truly connected network.  Fares in SEQ are amongst the worlds most expensive. Token fare cuts do very little without real reform.  Time to act decisively, SEQ votes soon!"

Contact:

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


1. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10048.msg135186#msg135186

2. http://www.oesr.qld.gov.au/products/tables/cpi-all-groups-bris-wt-avg-eight-qtr/index.php

3. http://translink.com.au/sites/default/files/assets/resources/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/open-data/2014-Dec-snapshot.pdf  pages 1 & 14

4. 16 Jun 2014: SEQ: Flawed cost estimates for the nine and free go card rort?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10765.0

5. KPI Summary December2014
http://backontrack.org/images/tl/summarydec14.jpg


6. KPI Affordability December 2014
http://backontrack.org/images/tl/affordabilitydec14.jpg

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Queensland Election 2015: BaT tunnel goes under election radar

Brisbane's most important public transport project – a $5 billion tunnel to provide a much-needed link between the city's northside and its southside - barely rated a mention during Queensland's 2015 election campaign.

However the outcome of Saturday's poll could determine which multi-billion model eventually gets built.

Over the past decade Labor and the LNP have each drawn up detailed models to solve the major rail capacity problem that was first identified by Peter Beattie when he was Queensland's premier in 2005.

Labor developed the Cross River Rail Project when it was in government at state and federal levels.

When the Newman Government come to power in Queensland in March 2012, it questioned the $8 billion cost of Labor's plan and in 2013, it refused a matching $715 million offer from federal Labor to start the project. 

The LNP developed a less expensive underground model – including buses and trains running under the city in the same tunnel – and called it the Bus and Train (BaT) tunnel. It would cost around $5 billion, but it has yet to go to the market.

If the LNP wins Saturday's state election the BaT tunnel will proceed.

It has allocated $1 billion towards the project in its $8.6 billion infrastructure fund, if buyers can be found for the government-owned corporations the LNP plans to lease.

However, if the ALP wins Saturday, the BaT tunnel could be replaced by Cross River Rail, Shadow Treasurer Curtis Pitt said on Thursday.

The LNP's design would go to Labor's Building Queensland infrastructure team,  in the very same way the LNP looked at Labor's Cross River Rail design when it won office, Mr Pitt said.

"We had Cross River Rail and if we were in government again we would be looking at all the available advice from planning," Mr Pitt said.

"And of course a project of that magnitude would be going to Building Queensland for independent advice to make sure that it stacks up in terms of cost benefit," he said.

"And that it is going to provide the best value for taxpayers."

Cross River Rail would carry trains only and run from Dutton Park to the Exhibition train station.

The BaT tunnel does not involve residential property resumptions; whereas the original Cross River Rail model required hundreds of resumptions including the Royal on the Park Hotel and 105 properties at Yeerongpilly.

In 2008 a major rail study, the Inner City Rail Capacity Study completed by Queensland Rail experts made it clear that Brisbane needed a new river crossing of its rail lines by 2016.

The core of the problem is the frequency of passenger and freight trains across the Merivale Bridge at South Brisbane.

The LNP says amendments to rail schedules, additional trains and changes to services have pushed back the need to find a new north-south rail link until 2020.

The project would take four years to build.

[ozbob]

^

Twitter


Robert Dow @Robert_Dow  5 minutes ago

BaT tunnel goes under election radar http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/queensland-state-election-2015/queensland-election-2015-bat-tunnel-goes-under-election-radar-20150130-131j8m.html ... @brisbanetimes #qldvotes #qldpol didn't escape our radar



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

Twitter

Robert Dow @Robert_Dow  3 minutes ago

BaT > http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=9972.msg150602#msg150602 ... ping @brisbanetimes serious concerns with the BaT ... #qldpol #qldvotes glossed over by many ... hey ho ...

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

30th January 2015

Privately Operated Buses, Ferries and Trams Already on TransLink Network

Greetings,

Below is a list of government owned and private operators that are already working to supply public transport services.
The current debate ignores basic facts that private buses, private ferries and private trams are already running all over the public transport network.

List of Government Owned Operators on the TransLink Network

Brisbane Transport (Brisbane City Council)
Queensland Rail (State of Queensland)


List of Private Operators on the TransLink Network

Gold Coast Light Rail (GoldLinQ)
Brisbane City Council CityCat & Ferries (TransDev)
Airtrain - Private (but operated by QR staff under contract)

Bay Islands Transit - Private
Bribie Island Coaches - Private
Brisbane Bus Lines - Private
Buslink - Private
Bus Queensland Lockyer Valley - Private
Caboolture Bus Lines - Private
Cairns Sunbus - Private
Clarks Logan City Bus Service - Private
Hornibrook Bus Lines - Private
Kangaroo Bus Lines - Private
Mt Gravatt Bus Lines - Private
Park Ridge Transit - Private
Southern Cross Transit - Private
Sunshine Coast Sunbus - Private
Surfside Bus Lines - Private
Thompson Bus Service - Private
Transdev Queensland - Private
Westside Bus Company - Private

Reference: http://translink.com.au/about-translink/who-we-are/who-we-work-with

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

26th January 2015

Re: Brisbane Bus Reform: Brisbane City Council's Bus Network - What Went Wrong?

Greetings,

It matters little who is Government after next week, they are going to have to address the failed bus network for Brisbane.  TransLink attempted to do the right thing in 2013, non-cooperation by BCC basically torpedoed their efforts.  We don't think BCC will be able to get away with intransigence again - putting political self interest ahead of the broader community interest.  Weak leadership at the state level was also a factor.

Our members have worked for the past year in putting together detailed maps of the current and a proposed bus network for Brisbane.  It has cost Queensland nothing but many hours of dedicated committment by our members.

A series of media releases has been made available  and these are grouped together here
--> Bus reform - our proposal media releases grouped   http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11099.0

New Bus Network Proposal > http://tiny.cc/newnetwork
New Bus Network Proposal Survey > http://tiny.cc/busreform
Current BCC Bus Network > http://tiny.cc/checkyourbus

We do not claim that our proposed network is THE solution, it is a solution.  No doubt private bus operators everywhere have taken close note though as they prepare for competitive tendering.

Public transport in Queensland needs reform generally. Queensland: Call for an Inquiry into Public Transport -->   http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11184.0

The political party that addresses the critical issues of fare and network reform in detail as part of their policy platform, will probably be the party that determines the make-up of the  new state Government.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Media release 6th January 2015

Brisbane Bus Reform: Brisbane City Council's Bus Network - What Went Wrong?

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 today releases a summary report into issues with BCC's bus network and calls all parties contesting the 2015 Queensland Election to support bus reform.

As part of our New Bus Network Proposal for Brisbane, we release an additional summary report detailing what went wrong with the BCC bus network. The Lord Mayor is on record stating that the BCC bus network is 'not broken'. We disagree. Now, anybody can download our report and see why fares escalated.

Download Report Here > Frequency is Freedom  PDF 4.8MB

We show:

    * Who gets frequent bus service in Brisbane, and the suburbs that are public transport black holes under BCC's 'no transfer' philosophy (pages 5 - 8 ).

    * How bus reforms rejected by BCC are being implemented in Brisbane's sister city of Auckland, New Zealand (page 10).  A package of improvements in Auckland has seen train patronage grow 17% (2014) and bus patronage grow 7% (2014). In contrast, Brisbane bus patronage fell by 1 million and traffic congestion increased by 3%.

    * The cost escalation mechanism. Upgrading the bus network while insisting all buses drive direct to the CBD and not adjusting the surrounding legacy network leads to escalating costs which implies increased fares. (pages 11 - 12)

    * How BCCs bus network and anti-interchange philosophy places buses exactly where they are least required, wasting resources and congesting the Brisbane CBD. As an example we analyse the Moggill Rd/Coronation Drive corridor showing that this also leads to too few buses in the suburbs, causing long waits for BCC's own residents. (Pages 14 -16)

    * How BCCs bus network philosophy leads to a bus network that leaves entire suburbs without decent bus service (e.g. Yeronga, Bulimba, Centenary, Albany Creek) (Page 17 - 18)

    * How BCCs bus network philosophy leads to an enormously complicated, fragmented, expensive-to-run, low frequency network in the suburbs. (i.e. 15 different bus routes to the Centenary suburbs, where none frequent). Despite BCC's in-house 2013 review, examples still exist of where service does not properly match the distribution of residents and straightening is required (Page 20).

Our analysis suggests Brisbane City Council was a key driving force behind the escalating 15% fare increases. While BCC does not set fares, it does set bus supplier costs, and obviously, higher costs equals higher fares. Private bus operators bidding for contracts within the Brisbane area should offer to do what BCC refuses to do - offer to run a simple, frequent and connected-style bus network.

The sooner Brisbane gets new bus operators that are willing and able to undertake the difficult task of bus network reform, the sooner fares can come down and patronage falls reversed.

Contact:

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

References:

City's public transport will never improve while run by opposing sides Couriermail 11th April 2012 pages 18-19
http://backontrack.org/docs/cm/cm_11apr12_p18.jpg
http://backontrack.org/docs/cm/cm_11apr12_p19.jpg

Coronation Drive Analysis (Diagram)



http://s998.photobucket.com/user/tramtrain/media/BR_wasteogram_zps01c22678.png.html

Brizcommuter
http://brizcommuter.blogspot.com.au/2013/04/brisbane-city-council-bus-network.html
http://brizcommuter.blogspot.com.au/2013/03/brisbane-city-council.html
http://brizcommuter.blogspot.com.au/2013/03/more-of-brisbane-city-councils-not.html

New Year, New Bus Operators?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11164.0

2014 – A Year in Review Part 1 – PT, Auckland Transport Blog
http://transportblog.co.nz/2014/12/29/2014-a-year-in-review-part-1-pt/

Brisbane Buses: Call for CityGlider in Centenary Suburbs
http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/brisbane-buses-call-for-cityglider-in-centenary-suburbs-20141104-11gxl3.html

New Bus Network Proposal > http://tiny.cc/newnetwork
New Bus Network Proposal Survey > http://tiny.cc/busreform
Current BCC Bus Network > http://tiny.cc/checkyourbus

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

31st January 2015

Re: Queensland votes - nearly there ...

Good Morning,

The day of reckoning.  As we suggested to all parties & candidates public transport is a key issue, particularly in SEQ.  Confirmed by ReachTel.

The reality is this:

Labor's governing majority between 1989 to 2012 was built on its dominance in greater Brisbane. After its re-election under Anna Bligh in 2009, Labor held 34 of the 40 seats in greater Brisbane, having held as many as 39 in 2001 and 2004. When Labor won only 31 greater Brisbane seats at the 1995 election the Goss government was left clinging to power, and 33 seats delivered Labor's only minority government in 1998. Labor was reduced to only four greater Brisbane seats in 2012, which indicates where Labor has the opportunity to make most gains in 2015.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-10-17/2015-qld-election-preview/5937752

Failing to properly address the key issue with public transport in SEQ, the failed fare structure, is going to be very costly politically for this election.

Major political parties are very slow to learn and heed advice.  Well, you really do make your bed and lie in it hey?

You're welcome!

Best wishes,
Robert

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

Letter to the Editor Queensland Times published 29th January 2015 page 15

Call for parties to get public transport issues on track

Sent to all outlets:

30th January 2015

Queensland votes - nearly there ...

Greetings,

Well Queensland Votes 2015 nearly over.  LNP have put forward some good initiatives but have not addressed fare reform for SEQ.  This could prove costly.

There is a paucity of detail from the ALP on public transport issues, some broad commitments though.

The Greens detailed a good public transport policy.

Our campaign priorities we listed here last November -->   http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11066.msg148766#msg148766

Both the LNP and ALP have not heeded the lessons of history.

Enjoy the snags if you haven't voted already.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

29th January 2015

Re: SEQ: Fare unaffordability crisis - fare & network reform needed!

Greetings,

The election is on a knife edge.  It should not be scream the pundits.

Two major items from our election campaign priorities remains ( http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11066.0 ) viz. fare and network reform for SEQ.

Both the Greens and ALP have indicated they will move to sort these issues.  LNP has not indicated what it will do with respect to fare and network reform for SEQ.

Consider this:

Labor's governing majority between 1989 to 2012 was built on its dominance in greater Brisbane. After its re-election under Anna Bligh in 2009, Labor held 34 of the 40 seats in greater Brisbane, having held as many as 39 in 2001 and 2004. When Labor won only 31 greater Brisbane seats at the 1995 election the Goss government was left clinging to power, and 33 seats delivered Labor's only minority government in 1998. Labor was reduced to only four greater Brisbane seats in 2012, which indicates where Labor has the opportunity to make most gains in 2015.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-10-17/2015-qld-election-preview/5937752

Not rocket science.  Paid spin doctor armies fail to see the obvious hey?

Vote early.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

25th January 2015

Re: SEQ: Fare unaffordability crisis - fare & network reform needed!

Greetings,

It is some what disturbing that SEQ still has a failed fare system.  There can be no doubt about that, TransLink's own KPIs show that affordability is unacceptable and has been a factor in the patronage dropping off.

Related to this the very poor network design for the bus network in Brisbane.

One week to go to voting day.  The Greens have put forward a good plan for fare & network  reform.  See Lower Fares, Better Services-->  http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11136.msg151843#msg151843

Labor have a one liner in a 2014 policy document. '7.62 Labor will review the public transport fare system to improve affordability in South East Queensland' --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11178.msg151090#msg151090

LNP have a vague committment " ... there's more to do " .. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11201.msg151372#msg151372

The failure of the fare system for SEQ has been obvious for years.  In fact in January 2013, the Premier Campbell Newman in the Six Month Action indicated that there would be a new fare structure for SEQ by June 2013.

"Announce new fare structure for public transport in South East Queensland." http://www.thepremier.qld.gov.au/plans-and-progress/plans/assets/6-month-action-plan-jan-jun-13.pdf  page 6

Another broken promise.

We are still waiting. A 5% fare cut (courtesy of carbon tax repeal) and not increasing fares in the face of an election is NOT a new fare structure. Increasing fares 3 times CPI instead of 6 times CPI is NOT a new fare structure.

The last time a Government pulled the fare freeze con in the shadows of an election they were eventually sent to political oblivion.

QLD Election 2015: Will the punters be hit with 20% plus fare increases after the show? http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11195.0

The public of SEQ is being treated like idiots by the LNP and ALP.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Media release 24th January 2015

SEQ: Fare unaffordability crisis - fare & network reform needed!

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 said the TransLink performance snap shot data for December 2014 has again confirmed that fare 'affordability' remains at crisis levels. Worst KPI is ' affordability ' by a huge measure. Where are the detailed policy plans to sort out this disaster from the LNP and the ALP?

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Fares for public transport in SEQ have gone up in real terms (compound) around 83% for go card and 114% for paper single tickets during the period 2010 - January 2014 (1). A recent 5% decrease in November has only had a marginal effect. The Affordability KPI remains most unsatisfactory and is a standout failure."

"CPI for the period 2010-2014 has gone up around 10% (2).  The sheer magnitude of the fare increases  stagnated and falling patronage on public transport in SEQ.  Fare box revenue is also on the slide.  To continue on this failed fare path is not in the interests of anyone."

"It is then no surprise then that affordability is again the stand out failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs for December 2014 (3).

"It is a great disappointment to our members, and to many informed public transport users that rather than take the big steps to sort out the failed fare system and the network once and for all, in the shadows of the election a charade poll was put to the public - suggesting that a windfall gain from the cancelled carbon tax can be used to fund cut in fares of 5%."

"Fares on qconnect and TransLinkQLD (Cairns) urban buses are around half to a third the cost of fares in SEQ.  Service improvements would be far more important for these jurisdictions, but they were simply done over by the numbers in SEQ on the poll."

"A new balanced fare system needs to be put in place immediately for SEQ, rather than just a notional cut.  A fare system that drives patronage around the clock, is affordable and fair to all demographics.  The present free after nine paid journeys is easily rorted and is adding to further cost pressures for high base fares. This failed fare paradigm was introduced by the former State Government as free after 10 paid journeys in a week. The Newman Government simply carried on the basic flawed paradigm by changing it 9 paid journeys in a week as the threshold. The end result has been worsening patronage, a failed fare box and  worsening affordability overall."

"The nine and free fare paradigm is leading to massive fare box leakage and is NOT making fares affordable at all, the TransLink Affordability KPI attests to that.  It is just a massive rort and a drain on the fare box! (4)"

"We have seen fuel prices fall lately.  This in time is going to mean that more people will abandon public transport in SEQ due to the very poor anti-public transport fare system.  Road congestion will only worsen.  Road trauma costs will further exacerbate."

"Will we see some moves to sensible fare and network reform as part of the forthcoming Queensland election?  The Greens have outlined a plan, the LNP and ALP are yet to do so."

"There are very big cost savings to be made to the economy by getting people back on public transport with a sound fare system and a truly connected network.  Fares in SEQ are amongst the worlds most expensive. Token fare cuts do very little without real reform.  Time to act decisively, SEQ votes soon!"

Contact:

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


1. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10048.msg135186#msg135186

2. http://www.oesr.qld.gov.au/products/tables/cpi-all-groups-bris-wt-avg-eight-qtr/index.php

3. http://translink.com.au/sites/default/files/assets/resources/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/open-data/2014-Dec-snapshot.pdf  pages 1 & 14

4. 16 Jun 2014: SEQ: Flawed cost estimates for the nine and free go card rort?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10765.0

5. KPI Summary December2014
http://backontrack.org/images/tl/summarydec14.jpg


6. KPI Affordability December 2014
http://backontrack.org/images/tl/affordabilitydec14.jpg

[ozbob]

^

4KQ News have followed up.    thanks!

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

1 February 2015

Public Transport Inquiry: First 100 days to set up Commission

The election is over and now work needs to be done. The high fares and black holes plaguing the bus network need to be fixed.

The new Queensland Government should move to form a commission of inquiry within the first 100 days. We would suggest, among others, The Honourable Alannah MacTiernan from Western Australia to be invited to head the commission of inquiry.

RAIL Back on Track recognises TransPerth in Western Australia is a first class public transport network that is a comparable benchmark of performance against that of Brisbane's. Perth has similar population, size, density, railway network and demographics as Brisbane. In her former role as Minister for Planning and Infrastructure in the West Australian government from 2001 to 2008, she established the Public Transport Authority (Western Australia) and transformed the planning and management of public transport in Perth. She also delivered the New Metro Rail Project, which included a new rail tunnel connection into the Perth CBD, at very low cost.

As Brisbane needs to develop a new river rail crossing, this experience makes The Hon. Alannah MacTiernan the natural choice to head a public transport commission of inquiry.

The public transport inquiry should take a whole-of-system approach, and look at both infrastructure and service network planning issues, including but not limited to:

* Identify root causes of the fare escalation
* Review the fare structure and levels
* Fix up the problems within the bus network, including black holes within Yeronga, Bulimba, Albany Creek and the entire Centenary Suburbs
* Deliver on the explicit promise by Tim Mulherin MP, to examine the BulimbaGlider concept, among others.

RAIL Back on Track will be monitoring the commitment to the following Labor policies, in particular:

(#7.50) integrated regional transport plans in conjunction with regional land use plans in all urban areas across Queensland.
(#7.56) Labor will build an inner city rail solution consistent with the Cross River Rail capacity
(#7.58) Labor will complete the Gold Coast light rail from Helensvale to Coolangatta
(#7.62) Labor will review the public transport fare system to improve affordability in South East Queensland
(#7.76) Labor will develop and publish a plan for the progressive priority upgrade of the North Coast Rail Line to improve safety, efficiency and reliability.

Failure to deal with the root causes of the high and escalating fares, which are some of the highest fares in the world, will see a return to the era of massive 15% and 20% fare rises.

Best wishes
Robert

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

References:
Hon Alannah MacTiernan MP
http://www.aph.gov.au/Senators_and_Members/Parliamentarian?MPID=L6P

The Policy Platform will set the groundwork for Queensland Labor's agenda going into the State 2015 Election.
http://www.queenslandlabor.org/wp-content/uploads/2014QldPolicyPlatform_web.pdf

Re: Labor's 2015 Election Policies
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11178.msg151090#msg151090

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

2nd February 2015

Re: Queensland votes - nearly there ...

Greetings,

A hung Parliament. No real surprise is it?  Cr Paul Tully predicted it, and others.

If the major parties had articulated detailed fare and network reform and ' sold it' during the campaign they would now be the government.  No doubt about that.

ALP also supports concession fares for unemployed, something that happens in every other state and territory of Australia.  Was that detailed during the campaign?

The major parties spend millions of $$ but fail to do the obvious.  Queenslander!

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

31st January 2015

Re: Queensland votes - nearly there ...

Good Morning,

The day of reckoning.  As we suggested to all parties & candidates public transport is a key issue, particularly in SEQ.  Confirmed by ReachTel.

The reality is this:

Labor's governing majority between 1989 to 2012 was built on its dominance in greater Brisbane. After its re-election under Anna Bligh in 2009, Labor held 34 of the 40 seats in greater Brisbane, having held as many as 39 in 2001 and 2004. When Labor won only 31 greater Brisbane seats at the 1995 election the Goss government was left clinging to power, and 33 seats delivered Labor's only minority government in 1998. Labor was reduced to only four greater Brisbane seats in 2012, which indicates where Labor has the opportunity to make most gains in 2015.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-10-17/2015-qld-election-preview/5937752

Failing to properly address the key issue with public transport in SEQ, the failed fare structure, is going to be very costly politically for this election.

Major political parties are very slow to learn and heed advice.  Well, you really do make your bed and lie in it hey?

You're welcome!

Best wishes,
Robert

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

Letter to the Editor Queensland Times published 29th January 2015 page 15

Call for parties to get public transport issues on track

Sent to all outlets:

30th January 2015

Queensland votes - nearly there ...

Greetings,

Well Queensland Votes 2015 nearly over.  LNP have put forward some good initiatives but have not addressed fare reform for SEQ.  This could prove costly.

There is a paucity of detail from the ALP on public transport issues, some broad commitments though.

The Greens detailed a good public transport policy.

Our campaign priorities we listed here last November -->   http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11066.msg148766#msg148766

Both the LNP and ALP have not heeded the lessons of history.

Enjoy the snags if you haven't voted already.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

29th January 2015

Re: SEQ: Fare unaffordability crisis - fare & network reform needed!

Greetings,

The election is on a knife edge.  It should not be scream the pundits.

Two major items from our election campaign priorities remains ( http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11066.0 ) viz. fare and network reform for SEQ.

Both the Greens and ALP have indicated they will move to sort these issues.  LNP has not indicated what it will do with respect to fare and network reform for SEQ.

Consider this:

Labor's governing majority between 1989 to 2012 was built on its dominance in greater Brisbane. After its re-election under Anna Bligh in 2009, Labor held 34 of the 40 seats in greater Brisbane, having held as many as 39 in 2001 and 2004. When Labor won only 31 greater Brisbane seats at the 1995 election the Goss government was left clinging to power, and 33 seats delivered Labor's only minority government in 1998. Labor was reduced to only four greater Brisbane seats in 2012, which indicates where Labor has the opportunity to make most gains in 2015.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-10-17/2015-qld-election-preview/5937752

Not rocket science.  Paid spin doctor armies fail to see the obvious hey?

Vote early.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

25th January 2015

Re: SEQ: Fare unaffordability crisis - fare & network reform needed!

Greetings,

It is some what disturbing that SEQ still has a failed fare system.  There can be no doubt about that, TransLink's own KPIs show that affordability is unacceptable and has been a factor in the patronage dropping off.

Related to this the very poor network design for the bus network in Brisbane.

One week to go to voting day.  The Greens have put forward a good plan for fare & network  reform.  See Lower Fares, Better Services-->  http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11136.msg151843#msg151843

Labor have a one liner in a 2014 policy document. '7.62 Labor will review the public transport fare system to improve affordability in South East Queensland' --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11178.msg151090#msg151090

LNP have a vague committment " ... there's more to do " .. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11201.msg151372#msg151372

The failure of the fare system for SEQ has been obvious for years.  In fact in January 2013, the Premier Campbell Newman in the Six Month Action indicated that there would be a new fare structure for SEQ by June 2013.

"Announce new fare structure for public transport in South East Queensland." http://www.thepremier.qld.gov.au/plans-and-progress/plans/assets/6-month-action-plan-jan-jun-13.pdf  page 6

Another broken promise.

We are still waiting. A 5% fare cut (courtesy of carbon tax repeal) and not increasing fares in the face of an election is NOT a new fare structure. Increasing fares 3 times CPI instead of 6 times CPI is NOT a new fare structure.

The last time a Government pulled the fare freeze con in the shadows of an election they were eventually sent to political oblivion.

QLD Election 2015: Will the punters be hit with 20% plus fare increases after the show? http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11195.0

The public of SEQ is being treated like idiots by the LNP and ALP.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Media release 24th January 2015

SEQ: Fare unaffordability crisis - fare & network reform needed!

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 said the TransLink performance snap shot data for December 2014 has again confirmed that fare 'affordability' remains at crisis levels. Worst KPI is ' affordability ' by a huge measure. Where are the detailed policy plans to sort out this disaster from the LNP and the ALP?

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Fares for public transport in SEQ have gone up in real terms (compound) around 83% for go card and 114% for paper single tickets during the period 2010 - January 2014 (1). A recent 5% decrease in November has only had a marginal effect. The Affordability KPI remains most unsatisfactory and is a standout failure."

"CPI for the period 2010-2014 has gone up around 10% (2).  The sheer magnitude of the fare increases  stagnated and falling patronage on public transport in SEQ.  Fare box revenue is also on the slide.  To continue on this failed fare path is not in the interests of anyone."

"It is then no surprise then that affordability is again the stand out failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs for December 2014 (3).

"It is a great disappointment to our members, and to many informed public transport users that rather than take the big steps to sort out the failed fare system and the network once and for all, in the shadows of the election a charade poll was put to the public - suggesting that a windfall gain from the cancelled carbon tax can be used to fund cut in fares of 5%."

"Fares on qconnect and TransLinkQLD (Cairns) urban buses are around half to a third the cost of fares in SEQ.  Service improvements would be far more important for these jurisdictions, but they were simply done over by the numbers in SEQ on the poll."

"A new balanced fare system needs to be put in place immediately for SEQ, rather than just a notional cut.  A fare system that drives patronage around the clock, is affordable and fair to all demographics.  The present free after nine paid journeys is easily rorted and is adding to further cost pressures for high base fares. This failed fare paradigm was introduced by the former State Government as free after 10 paid journeys in a week. The Newman Government simply carried on the basic flawed paradigm by changing it 9 paid journeys in a week as the threshold. The end result has been worsening patronage, a failed fare box and  worsening affordability overall."

"The nine and free fare paradigm is leading to massive fare box leakage and is NOT making fares affordable at all, the TransLink Affordability KPI attests to that.  It is just a massive rort and a drain on the fare box! (4)"

"We have seen fuel prices fall lately.  This in time is going to mean that more people will abandon public transport in SEQ due to the very poor anti-public transport fare system.  Road congestion will only worsen.  Road trauma costs will further exacerbate."

"Will we see some moves to sensible fare and network reform as part of the forthcoming Queensland election?  The Greens have outlined a plan, the LNP and ALP are yet to do so."

"There are very big cost savings to be made to the economy by getting people back on public transport with a sound fare system and a truly connected network.  Fares in SEQ are amongst the worlds most expensive. Token fare cuts do very little without real reform.  Time to act decisively, SEQ votes soon!"

Contact:

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


1. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10048.msg135186#msg135186

2. http://www.oesr.qld.gov.au/products/tables/cpi-all-groups-bris-wt-avg-eight-qtr/index.php

3. http://translink.com.au/sites/default/files/assets/resources/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/open-data/2014-Dec-snapshot.pdf  pages 1 & 14

4. 16 Jun 2014: SEQ: Flawed cost estimates for the nine and free go card rort?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10765.0

5. KPI Summary December2014
http://backontrack.org/images/tl/summarydec14.jpg


6. KPI Affordability December 2014
http://backontrack.org/images/tl/affordabilitydec14.jpg

[ozbob]

Twitter

Robert Dow ‏@Robert_Dow

Latest: 'Re: Queensland votes - nearly there ...' > http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11066.msg152322#msg152322 ... #qldvotes #qldpol

[ozbob]

Letter to the Editor Queensland Times 2nd February 2015 page 16

Time for state to tackle public transport issues

[ozbob]

SCL is still right in play.  I think we will see in the end  ALP with 44 seats, LNP with 42.  One indi (Peter Wellington), and two Katters.

Peter Wellington will probably support the ALP.  This then means Govt for ALP (albeit a minority one).  The Katters are then more then likely going to support the Govt to get the best for their constituency.

Peter Wellington has been talking up the SCL today, as too Mayor Jamieson.
See --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=6647.msg152344#msg152344

Looking good!

[SurfRail]

At the moment it is not entirely inconceivable that Pauline Hanson may be the new member for Lockyer, which would take another seat off the LNP.

[ozbob]

At the moment it is not entirely inconceivable that Pauline Hanson may be the new member for Lockyer, which would take another seat off the LNP.

Possible, but Paul Tully thinks very very unlikely, still 27 booths and many are large.

[ozbob]

Letter to the Editor Queensland Times published 3rd February 2015 page 17

Fare reform should have 'been' sold to voters

[ozbob]

Twitter

Robert Dow ‏@Robert_Dow 1 min

Letter to Ed @qld_times 'Fare reform should have 'been' sold to voters' > http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11066.msg152395#msg152395 ... #qldpol #qldvotes

[ozbob]

Twitter

Shane Doherty ‏@ShaneDoherty9 1 minute ago

BaT tunnel has to be off says KAP men #9News #qldvotes #qldpol

[ozbob]

I think it really doesn't matter much now what KAP think of BaT -  it is dead as dodo now in anycase.  LNP will not be proceeding with asset sales leases and ALP are against BaT in effect.



^ transport planning SEQ

[SurfRail]

If they oppose spending on a sensible replacement project for BaT they can shove off.  The state does not revolve around Julia Creek or Cloncurry.

Hopefully a government can be formed from at worst 44 ALP seats with support from Wellington.