Letters to Minister for Transport Queensland

[ozbob]

Date: Wed 18 Oct 18:08:32 EST 2006
From: RAIL Back On Track Admin <admin@backontrack.org>
Subject: Rail In Queensland
To: transport@ministerial.qld.gov.au
Cc: premiers@ministerial.qld.gov.au

Dear Minister,

Firstly, I  would like to congratulate you on moving quickly to help
maximise public transport options in this time of chaos in Brisbane.
This road closure does however highlight the precarious nature of the
state of transport options in Brisbane.  It is not acceptable that one
major road closure throws the entire Brisbane transport systems into
shambles.

It is really time to accelerate all projects eg triplication Corinda to
Darra, Darra to Springfield, and consider expansion of others eg.
Caboolture to Wamuran.

We have written before about the need to bring the railway line to the
Airport back into the normal Translink ticketing and service timings. 
It is poorly utilised at this time as it is too expensive for most. 
Following an interview on ABC Radio 612 which I commented on this,
feedback was unanimous  on this point.  Patronage would increase
dramatically if fares where reduced to the normal zone structure, and
pressure would also be taken off the roads.

Some other things which need attention.

1.  The standard gauge railway line into Brisbane can be utilised as a
commuter rail corridor from Bromelton to Brisbane.   A number of
standard gauge rail cars could provide a service from Bromelton to
Yeerongpilly, or run into Roma St.  Platforms 2 and 3 at Roma Street
station will be dual gauge following the INB upgrade and will be able to
accommodate this service.

2.  Frequency on the Caboolture line, Ipswich line and Gold Coast be 15
minutes at Off Peak (Mon to Friday), Peak times 5 to 10 minutes.  Twenty
minute frequency on weekends. The new suburban sets will allow this. 
Other lines twenty minute frequency off peak, 10 minute peak times.

3.  Lets get the Redcliffe Railway line started NOW!  It is time, as
recent events have showed.

4. Co-operation with the BCC to integrate bus with rail.  It is token at
this time.

5. The Victorian State Labor Government recently introduced free public
transport for Seniors on Sundays.  Let's do that here in Queensland.  It
is a no cost option that sends strong positive signals to the community.

6. Reintroduce family passes for travel on public transport on
weekends.  This will be of considerable benefit to struggling families,
but will also have the benefit of familiarisation with public transport,
which will help in changing commuting behaviour.  This can only be a
huge positive too.

7. Serious consideration be given to the introduction of light rail as
the preferred transport solution in the inner city areas.

RAIL Back On Track supports the sustainable and long term solutions
for public transport for the benefit of our community.

Let us not procrastinate any longer.

Yours sincerely,
Administration RAIL Back On Track

[ozbob]

I was afforded the opportunity of an interview on 612 ABC Radio Brisbane following up some of these suggestions.  The interview was on the Richard Fidler show at about 1.15pm on Thursday 19th Oct.  Thanks to the 612 ABC for their local community interest.

Best wishes
Ozbob

[ozbob]

Dear Ms Palaszczuk,

Congratulations on your recent election.

I am the administrator of a web based community organisation:  RAIL Back On Track.
Railways have been neglected long enough. It is time to ensure that foundations are relaid to continue the prosperity of the nation. Railways were critical to the early development of Australia, and in this time of energy and infrastructure crisis, we believe railways will again be the practical solution to the nation's transport woes. Long haul freight, passenger and commuter transport will be best provided for by rail.

You are welcome to visit our web site and message board located at http://backontrack.org

I am resident in your electorate.

My reason for writing is to ask for support for extending the suburban trains presently terminating at Corinda during the day, to run through to Darra.  This makes a lot of sense. Both Oxley and Darra are busy stations, by having an increased frequency during the day this will encourage more folks to use public transport.  As you are aware, there is a spare platform at Darra, it would not take any more resources, in terms of trains or crew to run through to Darra and terminate, rather than terminate at Corinda.  It will also help promote Darra as a bus interchange station.

I have written previously to TransLink re this, but have been ignored.  Not even a courtesy response.

This is an initiative that would benefit many commuters and potential commuters.

Thanks for your consideration.

Best wishes.


Administration
RAIL Back On Track
Darra Qld 4076


cc.  Minister for Transport and Main Roads - Queensland

[ozbob]

To:  premiers@ministerial.qld.gov.au,  inala@parliament.qld.gov.au,
transport@ministerial.qld.gov.au

Dear Premier, Minister and Ms Palaszczuk,

Please find below a copy of a letter to the editor Courier Mail in response to the article today (17th Nov) concerning CityTrain services.
We have given constant feedback and very constructive suggestions.  It is a shame you elect to ignore our correspondence as we have many great ideas.
Again we extend an invitation to you  visit our web site at www.backontrack.org
Translink need to be instructed to reply to suggestions and communications too.  A copy of this letter is being submitted to Translink.




Letter to Editor

The article 'More passengers  but no more room'  (CM 17th Nov) highlights what many commuters have been saying for a while now.  RAIL Back On Track (backontrack.org), a community web based organisation has provided much feedback and suggestions to the Minister for Transport and Public Works, and Translink.  Most of these communications are  apparently dismissed as we never receive any direct feedback.  The Minister and Translink would be well advised to actually listen to the community and organisations that are providing sensible solutions to  our community's transport needs.  If they took the time to visit our website they might be suprised.


Best wishes

Administration
RAIL Back On Track
www.backontrack.org

[ozbob]

A response to this letter was received from Translink.  Thanks Translink details here --> http://backontrack.org/mb/viewtopic.php?p=179#179

Regards
ozbob

[ozbob]

To:  transport@ministerial.qld.gov.au
CC:  translink@transport.qld.gov.au,  inala@parliament.qld.gov.au,
deagon.ward@ecn.net.au,  premiers@ministerial.qld.gov.au,
mailman@qnp.newsltd.com.au,  mount.ommaney@parliament.qld.gov.au,
moggill@parliament.qld.gov.au,  lytton@parliament.qld.gov.au,
bundamba@parliament.qld.gov.au,  ipswich@parliament.qld.gov.au,
ipswich.west@parliament.qld.gov.au

Dear Minister,

Our organisation, RAIL Back On Track  is concerned with the apparent contempt the public transport commuter community is being shown by Queensland Transport, Translink and QR.   For example, this weekend is the weekend of the Ipswich Show.  Why on earth is this the weekend that is chosen to close the railway lines from Corinda to Rosewood?  Surely some consultation with the community could provide for weekend closures that do not disrupt in a major way community activities.  Folks plan for these events for long periods of time and it is heart breaking to have it ruined by a lack of consideration of transport authorities.

The Oxley Village Street Fair was ruined in a similar fashion.  The weekend that the Fair was on the railway was closed for routine track maintenance,  the chaos caused by buses disrupted the fair and kept many citizens away.  Morale is such now that the organisers are unlikely to attempt that again, such was the effect.

Just as a side note, on my morning walk today I called into Oxley Railway Station. There waiting expectantly for non-arriving trains was a group of hapless commuters.  I politely informed them of the track closure and directed them to the bus stops.  When there are track closures a very bright sign alerting commuters to changed travel arrangements is needed.  Lets think outside of the square for a change!  Presently publicity for these planned track closures is not getting through to many commuters.

Surely when planning track closures, some consideration be given to the community events.  We all appreciate the need for track maintenance and so forth, but it can be done in an emphatic way for the community.  It may be necessary to set up some sort of Community Event register that folks could use when planning maintenance closures.

We would appreciate some positive action on this matter rather than spin.

Yours sincerely,


Administration
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Dear Minister,

Could you please confirm that weekly tickets as in use today for travel through Brisbane, are to be retained when the new ticket machines and Smart Cards are introduced.
It would be a significant cost impost if they were no longer available.  It would also act as a disincentive to encouraging citizens to use our public transport network as the preferred means of travel.

Thank you.

Yours sincerely,


Administration
RAIL Back On Track  http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

I have had a response from Translink and the Minister re weekly tickets.
Thanks, it would appear that for the time being weekly tickets will be retained.

Hopefully they can eventually program the Smart Cards to handle a weekly situation, e.g., you make 4 daily journeys then the next 3 days registers for a weekly and no debits.  Weekly tickets are a strong incentive for people to use public transport.

Regards
Ozbob
Admin

[ozbob]

Dear Minister,

I am the administrator of RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org).  The Smart card ticketing project for Translink has some consequences which are not being made clear for the travelling public.  We have trying to get answers from your Government and Translink about the future of weekly tickets when Smart cards are rolled out.  You or your representatives will not give us a direct answer.  We had one phone call from a Translink representative which was evasive, and they said they will keep the paper tickets for a while.  No guarantee at all. This was in response to a letter (see here http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=83.msg213#msg213 )

Many commuters use weekly tickets as they help to make commuting at least a little more affordable, and give some flexibility for weekend travel.
Weekly tickets are a major incentive for people to use public transport.

One would think that Smart cards could be programmed to drop into a weekly ticket mode once four days daily travel undertaken, so that the next three days are essentially free.  As it is at the moment there will be considerable increases in the cost of travel for those presently using weekly tickets when they move to Smart card. When people fail to touch off, or perhaps when the system fails and they can't touch off, they will be debited with a zone 23 fare!  Goodness, there is going to be riots on the trains, buses and ferries.  The Smart card roll out is years behind schedule already. We think we are being sold a dud.

Thanks.

Regards

Admin
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Dear Minister,

For the second week in a row, yet more ?operational issues? have forced a number of cancellations on Brisbane?s Citytrain network on a Friday (6th July).  It is one thing to be highlighting the features of the new suburban trains, but if there are not enough train drivers and guards to maintain services, what?s the point?

At a time when it is important to maximise the use of public transport in to help alleviate the chronic road chaos  in ?Congestion Capital?, ?operational issues? are causing much disruption and inconvenience to the travelling public. It is strange that these 'operational issues' with Citytrain services seem to reach a peak on Friday afternoons.

RAIL Back On Track believes more rail crews need to be trained and employed, particularly in view of the the number of new suburban trains on order and soon to be in service.

Yours sincerely,


Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track

http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Dear Minister of Transport and Main Roads,

I am writing to express our concern with the ongoing problem of Citytrain cancellations at very short or no notice.  Of particular concern are the cancellations that are occurring on Friday afternoon peak and evening, and to a lesser extent when the system is extended with sporting events. 

There is a growing level of frustration being demonstrated by the travelling public, particularly when meet with bland announcements such as "the 5.12 service to Shorncliffe is cancelled  due to 'operational reasons'" and when such announcements are made after the due departure times! I think passengers are entitled to better explanations.  For example "the 5.12 service to Shorncliffe is cancelled due to crew shortages" or "the 5.12 service to Shorncliffe is cancelled due to failure of the train rostered for this service".

Unforeseen events do occur as per the closure of the Ferny Grove line this morning due to a motor vehicle crashing onto the railway line, but it is the now chronic cancellations that are leading to a perception of unreliability of service.  And this at a time when our roads are choking with congestion and it is paramount to encourage citizens to abandon their vehicles for public transport.

The negative stream of letters to the editor are also demoralising to QR staff I would suggest.  RAIL Back On Track is grateful for the sustained commitment the rail staff make to maintaining services, even though much overtime is required to keep services on timetable.  It is then not surprising that shortfalls are being experienced.

We have suggested some timetable improvements within present staffing and service capabilities, but no response has been received as yet.

We believe it is time for an apology to the Citytrain travelling public, and an outline provided of what is going to be done in the immediate, short and long term to address these issues.

Yours sincerely,

Administration
RAIL Back On Track
http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

4 August 2007

Dear Minister,

The Courier Mail has highlighted the number of bus passengers left stranded (More passengers stranded, C-M August 4) and the present disruptions to TransLink Citytrain services (Nasty dose strains state's workplaces. C-M August 4).  Flu spin aside, again this is highlighting the abysmal nature of public transport in South East Queensland to cope with peak loadings.  Citytrain cancellations have been occurring regularly now for weeks and weeks (see -->  http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=149.0).  To spin this as 'flu' is not doing the travelling public any real service all, it is just contempt.  This 'flu' is magical.  It seems to exert it's worse effects weekly on Fridays' peak times, and when major sporting/entertainment events put additional strains on services. I am a medical scientist.  This might be a great medical research project to explore the unique periodicity of this flu!

It is time that there was an actual acknowledgment of the true nature of the problems.  These being years of neglect, a failure to keep pace with timetables that match changing work and social pressures (last major review over ten years ago for rail), and the systemic failures to keep infrastructure and staff levels able to meet satisfactory operational services.  We await in stunned bemusement for the probable meltdowns that will occur during the Brisbane Ekka.
Time for a real apology to the travelling public of Brisbane, and an indication of what will be done now and in the longer term to sort out this appalling fiasco!

There is growing commuter anger and resentment.  Some leadership needs to be shown.

Best wishes.

Regards,

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

[ozbob]

Copy of correspondence sent to the Minister, Citytrain and Translink, 7 August 2007

------------------------------------

Greetings,

The 8.37pm Ipswich Service from Central was terminated at Sherwood this evening (and later services).  Work proceeding to replace the track work at Corinda as a result of the derailment over the weekend.  QR web site did have notice of disruptions - line closed between Sherwood and Darra, bus in lieu from 8.13pm.

Unfortunately, most passengers do not have the opportunity to check a website at 8.15pm when they are catching the train at 8.37pm.  Students and workers are travelling by bus or foot, or perhaps by other Citytrain services.  Why was it that the passengers on that service, the 8.37pm to Ipswich were only notified that the train was to terminate at Sherwood when they were at Graceville?  This causes great upset with passengers. The lack of a timely and courteous notification causes anger, resentment and complicates passengers further travel.  Friends and acquaintances waiting down the line to pick them up do need to be notified of the delays. This notification to passengers needs to be done when the train is at Central, Roma St and key stations in between.  Not just as the train is about to terminate!

The attitude towards Citytrain passengers concerning communication in a timely manner is appalling.  Particularly when disruptions such as this evening on the Ipswich line are known well in advance by operations.

Citytrain passengers are already feeling the strain of continued last minute cancellations for the last couple of months.  Treating passengers in a courteous and considerate manner will go a long way. This needs to be reinforced with all staff.  It is now 9.40pm, passengers on Darra platform are still  waiting for a service to continue onwards.  There is a very upset group of citizens on that station.
Yours sincerely,

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

[ozbob]

Copy of correspondence to the Minister of Transport and Main Roads and other representatives.

10 August 2007

Greetings,

The Courier Mail has reported that an  underground rail system for central Brisbane is being investigated by the State Government to help cope with the city's massive growth (C-M August 9).

This is a sensible solution to the problem of near maximum  peak density on rail bridges that is fast approaching.  A suggested route would be to extend from the present Central Station to underground stations at Eagle St, then Botanical Gardens (near QUT), under the river to Wooloongabba, and then back on to the main line south around Park Road.
By also constructing a station at Normanby on the present Exhibition loop line, and running loop services all year round, access to Herston and the Royal Brisbane Hospital precincts, and Normanby area and education facilities such as QUT Kelvin Grove and Brisbane Grammar school would be easy.  This would also help to take pressure off inner city buses.

Congratulations on starting to shift the paradigm from "catch up" to "proactive sustainable development".

Best wishes.

Regards,

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

[ozbob]

21 August 2007

Dear Minister,

Reference:  http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=135.0

RAIL Back On Track has major concerns with the TRANSLink Smart card.  A summary of these concerns is listed below.

Feedback from RAIL Back On Track  members and the general public has indicated that there are many aspects of the system that are flawed, and in the absence of any meaningful response to these questions would suggest that there is something to hide.
Namely, the very significant increases in the cost of travel for regular commuters.

I have received advice that some participants in the pilot project withdraw because of the increase cost of their travel using the Smart Card. This is of major concern.  Depending on travel patterns cost increases could be anywhere between 75% and over 200%.  This is not acceptable, particularly at a time when citizens are being pounded by water price increases, out of control rents, electricity and rate rises, cost of living increases far exceeding the notional CPI.

Here is a summary of the concerns RAIL Back On Track has with the TransLink Smart Card.

We would like specific answers to these questions. We do not want the standard 'spin' thanks.

TransLink Smart Card ? Key problems:

1.   Cost implications for users of weekly tickets, ten trip savers.
If you travel on 7 days you will pay 7 daily tickets?  Contrast that to a weekly ticket, 4 daily tickets for 7 days travel. That is approx. 75% cost increase. (This assumes a daily ticket cap, which appears not to be the case, therefore cost increases will be > 75%, particularly for multiple trips on same day).

2.   Failure to touch on and particularly to touch off penalties.
Presently $15 - failure to touch off for the pilot. What happens when system fails?  Holders penalised? What will be the system for reimbursement?  It will be a serious administrative load.  One can only imagine the difficulties this will present for minors and other uses that forget to touch off.

3.   Transfer time limitations ? far too tight.
30 mins peak, 60 mins off peak for pilot.  Who defines peak times?  What happens when services cancelled or full and bypass, Smart card holders penalised?

4.   How long will weekly tickets and other paper periodical tickets be available after the roll out?
Your Office has said available for a period.  Why not indefinitely?

5.   Does the Smart card drop to a daily ticket cost once that threshold is reached?
If not it will be extremely expensive compared to current ticketing options.
If so surely it would be easy to program a weekly eg. 4 consecutive daily tickets, then next 3 days in a weekly mode as for now with paper weekly tickets?

6.   Will 'off peak' travel be available?

7.   New ticket machines cannot issue extensions (or weeklies).  Why not?

8.   Frequent traveller discount?  What will this be and how will it work?

9.   The overall cost of the project seems excessive and is years behind.
Does this indicate ongoing issues?

10.   Does the Smart card roll out mean that staffing at railway stations will be decreased?  It is important to maintain a ?people? presence for security and safety, as well as alternative ticket purchases.

The TransLink Smart Card will be the ?face? of public transport in SEQ.  If it is problematical as it appears to be, it will be a major disincentive for maximising public transport use.  This will force yet more frustrated public transport commuters on to Brisbane's congested roads.

Thank you for attention to these matters.

Best wishes,

Administration
RAIL Back On Track
http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

30 August 2007

Dear Minister,

Why is the Ferny Grove line closed this weekend for maintenance?  It is the River Fire weekend and this closure is going to be very inconvenient for the many folks who would have otherwise used rail.  Buses will not be adequate and will just add delays and confusion.

To quote from the Riverfire web page at  http://www.riverfestival.com.au/riverfire/

Rail services
Additional CITYTRAIN services will operate on most lines.

On the 12th May last we forwarded this message:

> Railway track closures - implications for Community Events
> May 12, 2007, 08:14:02 AM ?
> To:  transport@ministerial.qld.gov.au
>
>
> Dear Minister,
>
> Our organisation, RAIL Back On Track  is concerned with the apparent contempt the public transport commuter community is being shown by Queensland Transport, Translink and QR.   For example, this weekend is the weekend of the Ipswich Show.  Why on earth is this the weekend that is chosen to close the railway lines from Corinda to Rosewood?  Surely some consultation with the community could provide for weekend closures that do not disrupt in a major way community activities.  Folks plan for these events for long periods of time and it is heart breaking to have it ruined by a lack of consideration of transport authorities.
>
> The Oxley Village Street Fair was ruined in a similar fashion.  The weekend that the Fair was on the railway was closed for routine track maintenance,  the chaos caused by buses disrupted the fair and kept many citizens away.  Morale is such now that the organisers are unlikely to attempt that again, such was the effect.
>
> Just as a side note, on my morning walk today I called into Oxley Railway Station. There waiting expectantly for non-arriving trains was a group of hapless commuters.  I politely informed them of the track closure and directed them to the bus stops.  When there are track closures a very bright sign alerting commuters to changed travel arrangements is needed.  Lets think outside of the square for a change!  Presently publicity for these planned track closures is not getting through to many commuters.
>
> Surely when planning track closures, some consideration be given to the community events.  We all appreciate the need for track maintenance and so forth, but it can be done in an emphatic way for the community.  It may be necessary to set up some sort of Community Event register that folks could use when planning maintenance closures.
>
> We would appreciate some positive action on this matter rather than spin.
>
> Yours sincerely,
> Robert Dow Administration
> RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org


I was then contacted by your representatives and we discussed at length the possible establishment of a community activity database, that could assist in planning track maintenance closures.  It would seem that has not been progressed.

We have received much feedback from disgruntled residents along the Ferny Grove line.

It is this sort of action that turns people away from our fine railways.

Yours sincerely

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

[ozbob]

9 September 2007

Dear Minister,

Why is it that the proposed smart card ticketing system for Melbourne, myki, can do things such as if you travel more than once during the same day, myki will re-calculate the best fare for you as a daily fare, whereas with the TRANSLink smart card system it doesn?t have a daily ticket cap, commuters in south east Queensland will be flogged for every trip?

The more you travel during the same week, myki will automatically give you the best fare by capping your accrued travel to a weekly fare. The TRANSLink Smart card system doesn?t have a weekly or monthly capability. Commuters will be forced to pay huge increases in the cost of their travel.

Why can they do it Melbourne, but not Brisbane? I thought Queensland was the Smart State. Queensland is fast becoming the late state!

We have been calling for a daily cap threshold, and weekly and monthly options for some time. Only to be ignored.

RAIL Back On Track again calls for the TRANSLink Smart Card to be junked, and a decent system implemented.

Thank you for your consideration.

Best wishes.

Robert Dow
Administration
RAIL Back On Track

[ozbob]

13th September 2007

Dear Minister,

Congratulations on your new appointment.

You are no doubt probably aware of RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org),  a web based community organisation that supports rail transport as a sustainable environmental solution for transport.  We also advocate on behalf of commuters who are largely ignored by TRANSLink and others.  Based in Brisbane, we have a strong local focus.

We would like to extend an invitation to you to visit our web site and note the many constructive suggestions we have put forward for improvements for the community.  These suggestions represent consensus views of the public and members.

Again, we are sure you are aware of the TRANSLink Smart card ticketing project, a project that is flawed at many levels.  If you visit this thread http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=135.0  it provides an excellent update on the issues as seen from the commuter perspective.
I just got off a late running 6.42am Citytrain service from Oxley.  It was late and grossly overloaded as is often the case.  It is paramount that the congestion issues on public transport are addressed in the immediate, short and long term.

Best wishes.

Regards


Administration
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

September 20th.

Dear Minister,

Reference:  Email correspondence August 21st.  http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=83.msg518#msg518

We have previously submitted questions on the TRANSLink Smart Card (Reference 1).  We have not received a response.
There is much concern in the community on how this card is going to work.
Piecing together various pieces of information that individuals have posted on a number of discussion boards it is clear that many issues are unresolved.

TransLink Smart Card ? Key questions:

1.   Cost implications for users of weekly tickets, monthly tickets and ten trip savers.
If you travel on 7 days you will pay 7 daily tickets?  Contrast that to a weekly ticket, 4 daily tickets for 7 days travel. That is approx. 75% cost increase. (This assumes a daily ticket cap, which appears not to be the case, therefore cost increases will be > 75%, particularly for multiple trips on same day).
An individual recently enquired to Translink re the future of 10 trip saver tickets and was told that it hadn't been determined.  Smart card pilot participants have been told that 10 trip fare savers will be discontinued.  Why the public deceit?

2.   Failure to touch on and particularly to touch off penalties.
Presently $15 - failure to touch off for the pilot. What happens when system fails?  Holders penalised? What will be the system for reimbursement?  It will be a serious administrative load.  One can only imagine the difficulties this will present for minors and other uses that forget to touch off.

3.   Transfer time limitations ? far too tight.
30 mins peak, 60 mins off peak for pilot.  Who defines peak times?  What happens when services cancelled or full and bypass, Smart card holders penalised?

4.   How long will weekly tickets and other paper periodical tickets be available after the roll out?
Your Office has said available for a period.  Why not indefinitely?

5.   Does the Smart card drop to a daily ticket cost once that threshold is reached?
If not it will be extremely expensive compared to current ticketing options.
If so surely it would be easy to program a weekly eg. 4 consecutive daily tickets, then next 3 days in a weekly mode as for now with paper weekly tickets?
Recent feedback to RAIL Back On Track indicates that a daily ticket fare will be applied the following day.  This is a very odd way to work a ticketing scheme.
See http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=135.msg680#msg680

6.   Will 'off peak' travel be available?  Will free travel before 7am be available?

7.   New ticket machines cannot issue extensions (or weeklies).  Why not?

8.   Frequent traveller discount?  What will this be and how will it work?

9.   The overall cost of the project seems excessive and is years behind.  A press release in 1998 indicated the Smart card would be in place by 2001!
See http://statements.cabinet.qld.gov.au/MMS/StatementDisplaySingle.aspx?id=6605

10.   Does the Smart card roll out mean that staffing at railway stations will be decreased?  It is important to maintain a ?people? presence for security and safety, as well as alternative ticket purchases.

11.  Why can the myki smart card ticketing project for Melbourne offer the ticketing options that the TRANSLink Smart card cannot?
See  http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=222.0

Thank you for your consideration.

Best wishes

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

[ozbob]

28 September 2007

Dear Minister,

The TransLink web site has the following statement:

http://www.translink.com.au/qt/translin.nsf/index/sc_ten_trip_removal_sep07

> removal of private operator ten trip tickets - effective 29 September 2007
>
> As part of the rollout of smart card, TransLink will be installing new ticketing equipment on board all buses.
>
> When this new equipment is installed, some tickets that cannot be used across the whole TransLink network will be removed from operation. This includes ten trip tickets.
>
> If you are a customer of Logan City Bus Service, Mt Gravatt Bus Lines or Veolia Transport Company, click on the relevant link below to see key dates for the removal of ten trip tickets.

And further advice for specific private operators eg:
http://www.translink.com.au/qt/translin.nsf/index/sc_ten_trip_logan_sep07

> Important notice for Logan City Bus Service ten trip ticket users
>
> Logan City Bus Service ten trip tickets will not be available for purchase on some services from 29 September 2007 and will be completely withdrawn from on board sale by 19 October 2007.
>
> The ten trip ticket will only be available for purchase at the Logan City Hyperdome and Springwood bus terminals. Any ten trip ticket purchased can be used until 31 December 2007.
>
> Current ten trip ticket users may consider purchasing a weekly ticket to take advantage of a 20% discount on fares, or when smart card is available, customers can benefit from the frequent user scheme available on all buses, trains and ferries across the TransLink network.
>
> For further information about the available ticket options and fares, visit the ticketing and fares section of our website or call us on 13 12 30.

Why is it that Translink cannot indicate to passengers what the frequent user scheme will be? (Do they actually know??)

This move to remove the ten trip tickets in the absence of any option other than weekly ticket, will  inconvenience bus passengers who only do a couple of trips per week, weekly tickets are of no value to them.

Obviously much pressure now to roll out the Smartcard, whether flawed or otherwise.

There are unofficial reports that the TransLink Smart Card will have a retrospective daily fare cap, and a weekly and monthly fare  limits by the time of general roll out of the card.  Can you please confirm this?

Many thanks.

Best wishes

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

[ozbob]

4 October 2007

Dear Minister,

Reference our previous correspondence 20 Sep 2007:  http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=135.msg686#msg686

Why is it that Translink or your office cannot or will not reveal the specific details of how the Smart card ticket will work?

Many commuters are very concerned that based on the way the Smart card pilot project operates they appear to be facing huge increases in their regular cost of travel on the Translink network.  Despite attempts at suppressing the negative feedback being generated on the pilot project word is leaking out.

Some assurance as to how the fares will be calculated is urgently needed.  Will there be a daily fare cap, and will it cap to the present weekly and monthly fares?

If it doesn't, the cost increases will be very significant.  Vague descriptions of  'frequent traveller discounts' will not substitute for the practical utility of weekly and monthly tickets.  Ten trip saver tickets are  being phased out.  People who use these two or three times a week will also be disadvantaged whilst Smart card is not available and in any case they will probably not qualify for the 'frequent traveller discount'.

Promises that other paper tickets will be retained for a period are not reassurance.   What is required is a clear articulation of how the fares will be calculated using the Smart card, as it is clear that Translink intends to eventually remove weekly and monthly paper ticket options without any real choice for commuters.

The card being developed for Melbourne 'myki' has automatic daily fare cap, automatic weekly and monthly cap.  This is how the Translink Smart should operate.
Is the fact that the project is now about 5 years late have something to do with the way it is limited in how it can calculate fares.  The Cubic website (http://www.cubic.com/cts/) says it's systems are 'turnkey'.  How come it is taking so long?  Five years to implement a turnkey system?

The TransLink Smart Card will be the ?face? of public transport in SEQ.  If it is as problematical as it appears to be, it will be a major disincentive for maximising public transport use. There are enough road congestion problems as it is now, we don't need more people being forced back into cars because of huge increases in public transport costs and poor ticketing options.

RAIL Back On Track believes that the Public Transport Commuter Community of South East Queensland is entitled to clear, accurate explanations.  We are after all in a democracy.

Yours sincerely,

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

[ozbob]

10 October 2007

Dear Minister,

I refer to the article on the Brisbanetimes web site this morning  10th October.
http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/news/queensland/qld-looks-to-london-for-public-transport/2007/10/09/1191695887798.html

We urge you when you meet with Cubic today to insist that present ticketing practices and costs for commuters are maintained on roll out of the Smart card.  That is daily fare cap, weekly and monthly fare limits.

Reports we have received would suggest that the Smart Card pilot is still a flop, and there are too many problems for a system wide roll out, but if it is to be rolled out it is paramount that the public transport commuters of South East Queensland are not left carrying the can for the greatest public transport policy disaster of recent times.

We invite you to visit our web site to see the reality of the problems with the Translink Smart Card and the potential impacts. --> http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=135.0

Poor policy is poor policy, we believe there are benefits of a successful Smart card ticket, but not in its present flawed form.

Commuters need watertight guarantees that they will not be disadvantaged.  Can you please give that guarantee?

Best wishes

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

[ozbob]

31st October 2007

Dear Minister Mickel,

I listened with interest to your interview on 612 ABC Brisbane  yesterday (30th October).

RAIL Back On Track has been seeking answers to many questions for months concerning the Smart Card.  The interview failed to clarify these important points:

1.  How long will paper tickets, specifically weekly and monthly tickets, be available following the general roll out?

2.  What is the date for the general roll out?   The Smart card is only in a pilot at this time and attempts to spin that as a roll out are misleading.

3.  Is it true that Smart card pilot participants have been given a 30% discount in an attempt to neutralise cost impacts of the way fares are charged with the Smart card relative to present ticketing? And even with this discount some people found it was too expensive and withdrew from the pilot.

4.  Is it true that only approximately 1200 Smart cards have been issued?  Again confirming the pilot status.  Compare this to 2,200,000 weekly ticket sales for the last financial year.  Please don't confuse actual cards with trips as was done in a previous Ministerial statement.

5.  Is it true that Cubic will sharing in revenue from Smart card ticket income?

6.  The frequent traveller discount will be an apparent attempt to subdue the outrage that will be generated once real cost impacts are known by the community.  What will this discount be?

7.  What will be the administrative arrangements for reimbursement of failure to touch off and touch on penalties?

These are just a number of major issues.  There are many others of course such as bus drivers having great difficulty in reading the ticket fonts issued on the new machines, or incorrect GPS positioning of bus stop data, or the fact that the GPS doesn't work in tunnels.  We still don't have a new ticket machine at my local railway station, Oxley for example.  Other equipment has been vandalised across the system because of the ongoing delays.

Clearly a failure to guarantee that no one will be worse off with Smart card relative to present ticketing forebodes bad news for the public transport community.
Years late and millions of tax payers dollars spent on a system that is still not able to be adequately explained in terms of its fare costs and other impacts.

Could our queries be answered please?  We have been waiting since July 2007.  Our previous requests are documented at http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=135.0

Yours sincerely,

Robert Dow
Administration
RAIL Back On Track

[ozbob]

8 November 2007

Dear Minister,

Tonight on the Citytrains was another afternoon/evening of cancellation chaos.

The level of communication being displayed by Citytrain staff is very disappointing at times, sometimes it is good.

This is an appalling  situation these ongoing cancellations.  We have received much feedback from very disgruntled commuters.

See here for an example -->  http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=295.msg1004#msg1004

We again call for compensation for Citytrain commuters when their services are cancelled. (see --> http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?board=19.0)

Does anyone actually care?

Best wishes.

Robert Dow

Administration
RAIL Back On Track

[ozbob]

TransLink Smart Card - Serious concerns

10 November 2007

Dear Minister,

RAIL Back On Track is concerned that there is a failure by TransLink, and other transport agencies to fully comprehend the need for an equitable fare structure on the Translink Smartcard.  The Frequent user with bonus discount fare is equitable only for those doing 10 trips a week essentially.  Commuters who use the Ten trip tickets on an opportunity basis say two or three times a week, and commuters presently using weekly and monthly tickets will have significant cost impacts on their travel unless some other options are made available from roll out.  Students and workers doing multiple daily trips will also suffer a cost penalty.  As it stands the TransLink Smartcard will act as a major disincentive for people to use public transport.  A perverse outcome.

We have received feedback from Smart card pilot participants that the trial has not been satisfactory.  Much feedback simply ignored by TransLink.

Unless the fares match the present paper ticketing costs for commuters they will not use the Smartcard.  This will negate the potential benefits it promises terms of cost savings and improved public transport efficiency that would otherwise be achieved following roll-out.

We invite you to read our Smartcard discussion thread on the message board at RAIL Back On Track --> http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=135.0

Please read the entire thread and you will then understand what a disaster in the making this will be, unless equitable fares are available for all.

Your sincerely,

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

[ozbob]

9 Dec 2007

Greetings,

Today's Sunday Mail (9th Dec) has the following short article (below) on page 36.

It is unacceptable that the public is not properly informed other than tiny pieces hidden away in the inner recesses of the local paper.  It is clearly time the Minister and Translink became commited to informed communication for the public.  The Smartcard is still a PR disaster.

Sunday Mail 9 Dec 2007 p. 36

Go-ahead for smart card

It's go for southeast Queensland's public transport smart card.
Five years after first signalling plans for a smart ticket system, the State Government will today partially roll out its Go Card for rail and bus travel.
A pilot program began in Redcliffe in July and on the Sunshine Coast in April 2006 with 1200 commuters trying the paperless, electronic ticketing product.

The same participants will be sent the Go Card this week before it becomes available for public use on the Sunshine Coast and in Caboolture, Redcliffe and Pine Rivers from next month.

So much for a roll out for general use ...

The article is incorrect, the first ministerial statement re smart card was 1998.

The Ministerial Statement (May 1998)  that suggested amongst other things ...

"leading to fully integrated ticketing across all of south-east Queensland-based public transport on smartcard technology, by July 2001."

http://statements.cabinet.qld.gov.au/MMS/StatementDisplaySingle.aspx?id=6605

Best wishes
Robert Dow

Administration
RAIL Back On Track

[ozbob]

24 Jan 2008

Dear Minister,

Many present users of the Go Card, who are in the main the former Translink smart card pilot participants, are reporting numerous system problems with the card?s operation, and problems with the new Ticket Vending Machines. This is of concern following reports of the collapse of the Sydney T Card smart card ticketing project.

For example some users have reported losing money in the ticket machines when attempting to top up balances, and problems with the debiting of fare costs to the card, particularly when there are system failures and users are unable to tag off.

Others have highlighted problems with the GPS location system in buses, and some concerns with the durability of Go Card equipment on the river ferries. The tag-on tag-off devices at railway stations seem to be particularly prone to vandalism.

The only fare structure announced, the frequent user scheme, is also causing concern to high use public transport users who face significant fare increases relative to their present seasonal paper ticketing should they use the card. I note that paper ticketing will be maintained for a period following card roll-out but surely the whole point of investing $100 million dollars or so will be to eventually replace the present system, otherwise we will just have two expensive duplicate ticketing systems?

Can assurances be given that commuters will not be worse off with the Go Card? Is the card really ready for roll out? The evidence so far suggests that commuters will be worse off and the card still is not ready for main stream use! How long will paper ticketing be maintained?

Yours sincerely,

Robert Dow
Administration
RAIL Back On Track

[ozbob]

26 January 2008

Greetings,

Another example of how the Go Card impacts on regular commuters.

This example is a uni student who lives in zone 4.  Attends uni in zone 1 (eg. QUT) and works part time in a shop in zone 3.

Goes to university Mon Tue Wed and Thu.  Works Wed Thu Sat.  This is a typical profile for a university student.

If using a Go Card:

Home zone 4  Uni zone 1 Work Zone 3.

Mon  2 single trips a $1.80  = $3.60
Tue  2 single trips @ $1.80  = $3.60

Wed  1 single to uni @ $1.80 = $1.80
Wed  1 single uni to work @ $1.60 = $1.60   Note 6 trip threshold reached - 50% after 6 trips.
Wed  1 single work to home 1 @ $0.70 =$0.70

Thu  1 single to uni @ $0.90  = $0.90
Thu  1 single uni to work @ $0.80 = $0.80
Thu 1 single work to home 1 @ $0.70

Friday night out in the cbd
2 single trips @ $0.90 = $1.80

Sat 2 single trips @ $0.90 = $1.80

Total if using Go Card $17.70 compared to Weekly ticket cost $14.40

Increase if using Go Card 23%

If using the weekly the student also has the option of using the ticket for Sunday travel in zones for no cost.  Also should extra trips be necessary during the week if using the weekly ticket no additional cost, on the Go Card additional expenditure.  This highlights why the Go Card should be capped to daily fare limits as most in other jurisdictions are.

To further highlight the cost of using the Go Card for high use commuters;

Consider a commuter who does 2 round trips a day outside transfer time limit (one hour) say Zones 1 to 3, 7 days a week (and a number do, eg. part time uni students who work full time, people who work a number of part time jobs and so forth) cost on card is 4 x $1.60 (50% discount) x 7 = $44.80 + the 6 x $1.60 = $54.40

Go Card cost of travel $54.40 compared to weekly $25.60 that is a 112% increase if they use the Go Card.

Should our hapless commuters forget to tag off or on with the Go Card then further penalties additional to fare costs to pay too.

The obvious conclusion that one can make is the the Queensland Government is trying to introduce back door fare increases which will impact heavily on citizens at time when cost of living increases are hurting all.

The mumble and spin by the Minister et al that paper tickets will continue to be available is clearly not the long term plan.  We have requested clear responses to the question "How long will the present integrated paper tickets be retained".  They won't provide a clear answer.  Obviously they want to push all on to the Go Card and pay increases in their travel.  The only paper tickets that will probably remain eventually will be those that are issued by the new ticket machines (single and daily).

What sort of Government would allow this to be done to their citizens?

Best wishes
Robert

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

[ozbob]

6th Feb 2008

Dear Minister,

I take offence at your comments on 612 ABC Radio yesterday the 5th Feb 2008 suggesting that demonstrations of the perverse cost impacts of the frequent user scheme of the Go Card are quote "concocted".  There have been many commuters ringing radio talk-back, writing to the media, and giving RAIL Back On Track feedback as to the impacts.

For feedback and examples are available here -- > http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?board=27.0

Here is a recent article from the Sunshine Coast Daily -- > http://www.thedaily.com.au/news/2008/feb/05/gocard-adds-900-coast-commuters/
Is this concocted too?

There is an urgent need for the FU (frequent user) scheme to be reviewed.  Public transport in Queensland is missing the bus and the opportunity to  promote and increase community use of public transport because of the increased costs of Go Card travel.  An uptake failure will not see the huge efficiency gains that would other wise be made.

Yours sincerely,

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

[ozbob]

Sent to Premier, Deputy Premier, Minister and Translink

10 March 2008

Dear Premier,

I note your comments in the story at News com Courier Mail --> http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,23345078-952,00.html

> Ms Bligh also said she was awaiting with interest, the outcome of a free, early-morning train travel trial in Melbourne.
>
> "While they have a different transport system I'm very keen to see the outcomes (of the trial)," she said.
>
> "When we've got final advice from the Victorians, we'll certainly be having a look and seeing whether this would be a suitable idea to try on Brisbane's transport network."

I think Premier it is very clear cut that the trial is over.  It is has just been rolled out across the entire Melbourne suburban rail network!

See http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=599.0 and why the Queensland Government is being left standing still on the true smart state initiatives by the Victorian Government. 

Not only have they introduced the free early bird travel but Seniors have had free travel on Sundays since August 2006! See --> http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=567.0

The further expansion of the early riser trial to include all of Melbourne's trains for free travel before 7am CBD arrival is great news for Melbourne commuters  This will further help ease congestion on their network.

The Queensland Government should now consider introducing free travel for Go Card users that touch on by 6.30am Monday to Friday on all modes, rail bus and ferry. This would be easy to implement as there would be no change to present ticketing practices and is equivalent in many respects to arrival at the CBD by 7am. This would help ease some peak congestion.

We are already experiencing significant congestion on some services before 7am. Some more early peak services are also needed.  Congestion on our public transport is fast becoming a major safety issue as well.  See --> http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=603.0

It is important that service frequency of all public transport modes actually matches the changing demographics, and work and life style changes.

To help ease peak congestion free early bird travel is smart!

Best wishes.

Robert

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

[ozbob]

12 March 2008

Sent to TTA, Minister and Translink

Greetings,

Congratulations on the announcement of the Translink Transit Authority.

RAIL Back On Track supports the  Translink Transit Authority (TTA) formation as it promises improved coordination and integration of public transport in south-east Queensland.

Of concern to commuters has been the poor communication and feedback from Translink, and a failure to actually address consumer complaints.

It is important that the TTA is genuinely responsive to feedback and complaints. The TTA has a responsibility to ensure that public transport is properly resourced. The system is already struggling and sorting out the congestion issues must be an immediate priority of the new authority.

At a user level making sure buses coordinate with rail is also important. For example, how often have arriving passengers on a train watched as their bus leaves without them on board!

We look forward to improved public transport in Queensland.

Best wishes

Robert

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

[ozbob]

5 April 2008

Greetings,

Melbourne Metlink has just announced a number of further ticketing initiatives, see below.

Public transport in SEQ is suffering severe congestion. Innovative ticketing options are urgently needed.
The Go card needs a boost.

How much longer is Translink going to stand still on the go card and hold off introducing incentives such as free early bird travel and fair fares which will promote card uptake and congestion busting?

See:

http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=599.0

http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=671.0

Best wishes

Robert

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

-------------------------------------------------

Quote
Three new Metcards for your public transport travel
Date Published: Friday, 28 March 2008

Three new Metcards are now available for your public transport travel:

10 x Early Bird

5 x Weekend Daily

5 x Seniors Daily
10 x Early Bird

> From Monday 31 March, passengers on all Connex electrified train
services who arrive at their destination by 7am on weekdays (including public holidays) can travel for free with a 10 x Early Bird Metcard.

The 10 x Early Bird Metcard can be used for journeys between any two stations on electrified train services operated by Connex.

It is not restricted to travel into the CBD. The 10 x Early Bird Metcard can be used for journeys between any two stations, including in the CBD. This means that people who travel in the opposite direction to the morning peak can also enjoy the benefit of free train travel on metropolitan train services before 7am on weekdays.

The 10 x Early Bird Metcards are now available for free from Premium Stations including City Loop stations.

You can pick up a maximum of two 10 x Early Bird Metcards at any one time and it?s a good idea to purchase a 10 x 2 hour Metcard for your return trip at the same time.

By using an Early Bird Metcard in the morning, then a 10 x 2 hour Metcard in the afternoon, customers travelling in Zones 1 and 2 can save up to $47.40 a fortnight compared with using a 10 x 2 hour Metcard for both trips.

Melbourne?s city centre has a variety of fun and healthy activities you can partake in each morning. Find out more by visiting: Early bird catches the train ? things to do from 7 ? 9am

Commuters jumping on board for free travel with the Early Bird Metcard will be treated with free coffee. For further information visit: Early starters travel for free and enjoy free coffee

Available from: Premium Stations including City Loop stations.

For further information visit: Early Bird: Frequently asked questions
5 x Weekend Daily

> From the first week in April, weekend train, tram and bus travel is set
to become easier with the introduction of the 5 x Weekend Daily Metcard.

The 5 x Weekend Daily Metcard is a single ticket programmed with five days of Saturday or Sunday travel. It is similar to the normal 5 x Daily Metcard, but is specifically designed for travel on Saturdays or Sundays.

This new Metcard will dramatically reduce fares for many weekend passengers. It will cost just $14.50 which works out to $2.90 per day. For an adult travelling across Zones 1 and 2, it will mean a saving of up to $7.20 per day just by switching to a 5 x Weekend Daily Metcard. Passengers can use the 5 x Weekend Daily Metcard across Zones 1 and 2.

5 x Weekend Daily Metcards are available for sale from Monday, 31 March 2008.

Available from: Metcard retail agents, the MetShop, the customer service centres of Premium Stations, online and from the Metcard Helpline on 1800 652 313.

For further information visit: 5 x Weekend Daily: Frequently asked questions
5 x Seniors Daily

Regular Seniors Daily Metcard passengers will be able to save time and buy a 5 x Seniors Daily Metcard from Monday, 31 March 2008.

The 5 x Seniors Daily is perfect for seniors who regularly travel in both Zone 1 and Zone 2. It costs $16.50 which works out to $3.30 per day.

Seniors are reminded that Seniors Daily and 5 x Seniors Daily Metcards may not be the best option for them as significant discounts are available on 10 x 2 hour and 5 x Daily concession tickets.

Available from: Premium Stations.

Metlink Media Release

[ozbob]

The following correspondence has been sent to the Premier, the Deputy Premier, Minister and all Honourable Members in Queensland, the Lord Mayor of Brisbane, Councillor Prentice and Councillor Dick, and for information to Translink and the Translink Transit Authority.

--------------------------

18 April 2008

Dear Premier, Deputy Premier, Honourable Members, Lord Mayor and Councillors,

I am writing to express my concern with the way Go card users of South-East Queensland are being treated by Translink.

Since 6 April 2008 there has been a serious time issue with the Go Card. The effect of this has been that bus/ferry commuters have copped extra fares and penalties.

Translink has failed to notify go card users of the problem. It is very important that users are made aware of the ongoing problems so that they can check their cards transaction history and then seek refunds from Translink.  A particular concern is that unregistered users only have a limited window to check their transactions.

Minister Mickel has indicated in parliament this week that 830,000 journeys have been made and the 50,000 card has been issued.  This is in effect 830,000/50,000 = 16.7 journeys which is just under two work weeks (nine days) of regular travel on average per card.  This is a disaster.

A significant number of go card users have already gone back to paper due to the ongoing problems with the card.  This is of great concern to me.

I am a strong supporter of the Go card but cannot stand by and watch the stoic go card users being treated in such a poor manner.

I invite you all to check out our go card forum at RAIL Back On Track --> http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?board=27.0

There you will find feedback, discussion and information pertaining to the go card from the real users of the system.

The go card is working well on rail.  The online management system for the go card is very good.  The card when it works is very convenient. The problem is it is not reliable on buses/ferries.

The impending phase out of ten trip tickets in Brisbane will lead to chaos unless the go card is fixed.
Another important issue is the bizarre nature of the so called 'frequent user fare'.  This is dearer for many relative to paper tickets and just acts as a further disincentive for uptake.

It is time that corrective action was taken to fix the go card, make the fares equitable, and then drive uptake so that public transport efficiency gains  and cost savings are made.

Yours sincerely,

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

[ozbob]

The following email has been sent to the Minister for Transport and others.

----------------------------------

9 May 2008

Greetings,

A recent post from RAIL Back On Track from yours truly  below ( http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=432.msg3773#msg3773 )

It is time this was fixed.

Best wishes

Robert

Thanks for the feedback.  It does look as though the time is fixed (thanks!)  although the notice is still accessible (--> http://www.translink.com.au/qt/translin.nsf/index/media_busclocks_apr08 ).

There is still an explanation needed to the public transport community of SEQ as to why they were not informed for two weeks of the problem.  Many people have lost money due to the time problem, and they have no redress.  Again a classic example of a major communication failure by Translink.  And the evidence to confirm that apathy is in this thread here --> http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=743.0 .

Us taxpayers have a major problem.  The equipment and system on the buses/ferries is clearly not working properly.  Our agents, Government and Translink appear to be incapable of sorting out this mess (do they care?).  Again this is going to be an acute problem with the pending withdrawal of the ten trippers from Brisbane Transport. I know the BCC is somewhat concerned (as they should be!).

This is how I would proceed from this point:

1.  reduce the base fares on the go card by 30%.  This would make it essentially cost neutral for all compared to paper ticketing and overall will be cost neutral as it will help shift people to the card and there will be the same revenue either paper or card essentially. Go card users will be more tolerant of issues as they will not be getting ripped off fare wise.  Keep everything else the same.

2. expedite the refund process - two working days maximum.

3. delay the withdrawal of ten trippers on BT for at least another 3 months, to give a window to sort out the GPS issues in the CBD and review the operation of the rear door readers.

4.  urgent review of the data tables and code for the system. Incorporate simple logic traps to capture and stop 'double touches', phantom penalties and so forth.

5.  run a sweep of the user database overnight daily to flag and refund obvious penalties and overcharges without the need for user initiation of refund process.

6. once system working introduce further ticketing incentives, capping and off peak.

7. it might be necessary to introduce a local signal for those places where GPS not working eg. tunnel and stops in shadows.

If the system is made reliable there are great potential benefits for our public transport.  Lets get on with it!  We are very supportive of the card, we want it to work and work right!!

Go!!

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

[ozbob]

12 May 2008

Dear Minister Mickel,

A shortened recording of an interview with me on 4ZZZ on Saturday 10 May 2008 can be found here --> http://backontrack.org/audio/zzz10may08.mp3

The alarming figures for BT full buses made publicly available today make my comments in the interview even more cogent.

In the interview I suggest solutions to the public transport crisis that we have in south-east Queensland.

Best wishes

Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
RAIL Back On Track

[ozbob]

Sent to the Minister, the Member for Clayfield, for information to TTA and Translink.

15 May 2008

Dear Minister Mickel and Mr Nicholls,

Thank you for your Ministerial statement concerning the TTA Bill.

We too look forward to the TTA as perhaps it will move on from the present mess that is Translink.

We do have major concerns with the single point of contact for public transport commuters. Presently the responses received from Translink re customer service issues are usually meaningless, inaccurate and not timely.  What are the guarantees that this will actually improve with the TTA?

What is being done to resolve the issues with the Go card please?  We are now in a go card crisis, particularly in view of the pending withdrawal of ten trip tickets from Brisbane Transport.   Please see http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=880.0, http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=877.0 and http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=876.0

Our concerns are for the best outcomes for our public transport. Nothing more.

Best wishes
Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
RAIL Back On Track

Minister for Transport, Trade, Employment and Industrial Relations
The Honourable John Mickel
14/05/2008

TransLink Transport Authority Bill introduced

The Minister for Transport, Trade, Employment and Industrial Relations, John Mickel, today introduced the TransLink Transport Authority Bill into State Parliament.

Mr Mickel said the new transit authority would be a tremendous boost for southeast Queensland commuters, as it was a one-stop shop for public transport services, customer service and feedback.

With the new legislation introduced in the House, the TransLink Transit Authority has entered the home stretch before commencing operation on 1 July, 2008.

"One of the best outcomes for commuters will be coordinated scheduling of different forms of transport," the Minister said.

"The effect will be passengers experiencing one continuous journey rather than planning separate journeys to reach their destination."

Mr Mickel said the Authority would provide integrated scheduling of services to and from special events, affording passengers seamless travel on TransLink services while they go to and from sporting and entertainment events.

"It will have the freedom and power to co-ordinate services, redeploy resources such as buses based on demand, and ensure the smooth introduction of new technology across the transport network.

The new TransLink Transit Authority will be comprised of a board of seven members including the chair person.

"The new authority will provide a single point of contact for customer service issues for the 17 different train, bus and ferry operators in south east Queensland," he said.

The Minister said a single transport authority would prove invaluable in tackling the challenges facing transport planners and government, such as traffic congestion and climate change.

He said for the first time in Queensland commuters would be able to ring the 13 12 30 information number 24 hours a day, seven days a week, always with the option of communication with a person, rather than a recorded message.

"Cu stomers will be able to call one number for all services, whether they're about lost property, timetables or complaints," Mr Mickel said.

"It will have greater control over service delivery, with the power and flexibility to improve services, convenience and reliability.

"The Authority will build on the success of TransLink, which has seen public transport patronage increase by more than 30 per cent since it was formed in 2004.

"We will soon have an authority equipped to deliver an exceptional public transport service for our growing population needs."

May 14, 2008

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

[ozbob]

Sent to the Minister, the Member for Clayfield, for information to TTA and Translink.

16 May 2008

Dear Minister Mickel and Mr Nicholls,

Our members, and I am sure the go card using public,  were delighted to see the report on the  go card on the Channel 7 News Brisbane last evening.

I congratulate you both on the constructive views expressed during that interview.

It was refreshing to see a public acknowledgement of the issues with the go card, but importantly clear indications that it will be fixed.

Thank you.

Best wishes
Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
Rail Back On Track

[ozbob]

25 May 2008

An open letter to the Minister for Transport, Trade, Employment and Industrial Relations

Go card concern

Dear Minister Mickel,

Recent revelations concerning a previously unknown policy to the effect that applications for refunds of incorrect fares and penalties for the go card must be claimed within 5 weeks is outrageous in my opinion (C-M, May 23, Go Cards refund bungle).

I rang Translink Go Card call centre last Thursday evening and was told by the operator and confirmed with her supervisor that there was no time limit for the refunds! What is going on with the go card?

The present 10 day period for refunds is itself excessive and should be made two working days.
The time window for people to claim incorrect charges debited to their go cards should be at least six months, preferably 12 months.  This allows a truly reasonable time for all users to claim their refunds.

RAIL Back On Track members find it extremely concerning and disappointing that go card users are being treated in such an off-hand manner. Judging by letters to the editor in various media and comments on blogs, and feedback received at RAIL Back On Track, the broader general public is likewise concerned.

Further evidence of this contempt for go card users was the time debacle on the bus/ferry go card system.  Translink and Government allowed go card users to cop excess fares and charges without any attempt to alert the users to the problem for two weeks (1).

The go card is potentially one of the best things to happen to public transport in south-east Queensland.  Why is it that Translink and Government seem intent on creating such a negative image for the go card? Taxpayers are rightly now very concerned as to when the system will be reliable and equitable.

There are solutions to the ongoing issues with the go card.

Here is an approach to get the go card going:

1.  Reduce the base fares on the go card by 30%.  This would make it essentially cost neutral for all compared to paper ticketing and overall will be revenue neutral as it will help shift people to the card and there will be the same revenue either paper or card essentially. Go card users will be more tolerant of issues as they will not be getting ripped off fare wise.  Keep everything else the same with respect to the 50% after 6 trips and so forth.

2.  Expedite the refund process - two working days maximum. Delay the increase in touch penalties for at least six months.

3.  Delay the withdrawal of ten trippers on Brisbane Transport buses and ferries for at least another 3 months, to give a window to sort out the GPS issues in the CBD and review the operation of the rear door readers.

4.  Conduct an urgent review of the data tables and code for the system. Incorporate simple logic traps to capture and stop 'double touches', phantom penalties and so forth.

5.  Run a sweep of the user database overnight daily to flag and refund obvious penalties and overcharges without the need for user initiation of refund process.

6.  Once system working introduce further ticketing incentives, capping and off peak.

7.  It might be necessary to introduce a local signal for those places where GPS not working eg. tunnels and stops in radio shadows.

We hope that these suggestions will be considered.

Yours sincerely,

Robert

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


Reference:

1.  http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=743.0

[ozbob]

Correspondence sent to all Queensland Members of Parliament and Ministers, Lord Mayor and Councillors.

31 May 2008

Dear Premier, Deputy Premier, Ministers, Honourable Members, Lord Mayor
and Councillors,

It is clear that there is a massive shift under way in the major cities
of Australia to public transport. This is being driven by the relentless
price rise of oil which will only continue as this commodity becomes
exhausted. Political games with respects to cents in terms of price
rises is meaningless when price rises will be dollars!

The failure to pro-actively put in place sustainable mass transit
options in south-east Queensland is now obvious to all. Come for a ride
on the 6.44am QR urban service from Oxley to the CBD next Monday morning
and see for yourself! Ask the stranded commuters at bus stops as full
buses pass them by.

Queensland is not unique in terms of this public transport myopia. A
report in the Sydney press (1) has highlighted the same basic problem of
not enough public transport resources in Sydney. Melbourne is also
desperately trying to cope with an overloaded public transport system
due to years of inadequate resourcing and the perverse outcomes of the
privatisation of public transport.

There are global signs too. For example, in the USA there has been the
fall in vehicle miles travelled for the first time since 1979
(http://www.dot.gov/affairs/fhwa1108.htm ). The huge bias to road
funding is now completely misplaced. We need more rail infrastructure,
urban, interurban and national. QR needs another 50 three car trains
additional to the 44 presently being rolled out as soon as possible.
This will give some of the capacity that is so desperately needed now
let alone for future demands.

The present 44 three car trains being progressively introduced are the
first new trains on the system in seven years. During that time
passenger numbers have increased by at least 40%. The new 44 three car
trains only give an increase in capacity of 30%. The 44 new trains don?t
even cover the increases in recent passenger loadings let alone future
demands.

The Queensland Sustainability Minister McNamara recently warned of
looming oil shortages and the need to prepare now. The nation and the
state are wasting billions of dollars on roads, bridges and tunnels
which will become useless as peak oil shortages hit.

We need to act pro-actively. Build the railway line from Petrie to Kippa
Ring whilst we still can. The line from Darra to Richlands has started,
stop messing around and push it through to Springfield now rather than
wait till 2015. Rather than build road tunnels, a heavy rail underground
loop extension is needed to provide the capacity to service the inner
city areas with high frequency, high capacity services. The main western
line needs capacity, a quadruplication project from Darra to Ipswich
will give that capacity.

Translink (and government) are transfixed on buses. It isn?t working now
and won't work when the fuel escalates greatly in costs either. A 30%
increase in passenger numbers across the system in the last three years
is a harbinger of future shock. QR had a 9% increase in passengers in
just a single year, 2006-2007.

The high capacity bus routes will need to be converted to electric light
rail to have any hope of coping with the huge passenger demands that
will be made on the system. Buses will not cope. To pretend buses will
is absolute folly. The Gold Coast Rapid Transit system should be light
rail to be sustainable and be able to handle the passenger loading demands.

Rail ? light and heavy, is the sustainable bulk people mover. By ramping
up the QR urban and interurban system to a high capacity frequent
service this will take the pressure off the radial bus network. More
lateral bus routes and feeder services will complement the high
frequency rail commuter services.

1.
http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/petrol-crisis-fuels-crush/2008/05/29/1211654221491.html

Best wishes,
Robert

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

[Skeetbris]

Well said Bob, but unfortunately the present lot in both Brisbane City Council and Qld Govt cannot see past their complete fixation on buses as the solution to Brisbanes future transport needs! If any of these pollies ever got on a bus at peak times they'd be so shocked at the overcrowded state of some services(to the point of being DANGEROUSLY overcrowded) they might re-think their stupid position on a decent mass transit system. Though I doubt it, will it take a major bus crash to highlight the problems? Take the 1960's policies of the bus-centric PAST and throw them in the bin where they belong. The buses aren't working now just imagine another 25-50% increase in passenger numbers as petrol climbs towards $2+ a litre, (in some parts of Brisbane today it was $1.75 a litre!) with a few extra new buses less the old ones taken out of service and you will have a system so overcrowded it just won't cope.

The busways are great but given the report into the S E Busway becoming jammed up with buses as it will, how will the section from Woolloongabba to the CBD be free flowing when there will be an increase in passengers with the Eastern Busway and therefore more buses to choke it with traffic? There needs to be a sustainable light rail system put in place soon before it is too late to fix the problems the policies of the past are still creating. Throwing more buses, no matter how big(and there are limits to where you can drive a vehicle the size of a bus with a 200 passenger capacity) just won't work. Even the report into the Gold Coast Rapid Transit system says that light rail can utilise larger vehicles that carry more passengers, with a more comfortable, smooth ride than can a bus. So many wasted oportunities in the past, when will the pollies ever have the backbone to make the decision to fix public transport without using band-aid solutions from the past that have already been proven to fail?

How many buses left people stranded during May 2008? There needs to be greater focus on both light and heavy rail or this city will eventually pay the price for doing very little since tearing up the original Gold Coast and Cleveland rail lines as well as the lunacy of ripping up the tramway. It all has had to be replaced since the 1980's, the only piece missing still is the rapid transit system, BRT has proven it cannot carry the numbers it will need to carry in the future! Taking the cheap option will eventually prove to be more expensive than biting the bullet now and putting in place decent infrastructure that will actually work when it becomes necessary. Pointing to figures about increases in passenger numbers on the buses only highlights their deficiencies and at present are only carrying a bit less than half of what Brisbanes trams carried at their peak of approximately 160 million passengers a year with less than 300 trams, how many buses would you need to do that now?