Premier denies Kiama to Bomaderry bus link is a band-aid solution

A bus service being trialled between Kiama and Bomaderry since December will be extended for a further year to June 30, 2019.

The 737 bus will continue to operate the same route, stopping and departing from Berry and Gerringong train stations.

“The bus service trial is an example of how the Berejiklian Government is delivering on improvements in regional connectivity, a key initiative of Future Transport 2056,” Kiama MP Gareth Ward said.

“Kiama and Bomaderry are important regional hubs, with good health facilities, a major regional hospital and other services.

“Yet travelling between these centres is generally limited to an important but often highly patronised rail and rail bus service. The trial service offers the community additional services and improved travel options.

“We have listened to the community and will continue to trial the Kiama to Bomaderry service for a further 12 months.”

The trial, overseen by Transport for NSW’s Rural Regional Service Delivery and Performance Branch, is being run by Nowra Coaches who will provide customers with an air conditioned  disability compliant bus  with two wheelchair spaces.

“Passenger numbers thus far have been solid, consistent and showing signs of growth as people become more aware of this alternative,” Mr Ward said.

“While we have a good rail service, with more than a dozen services between these centres per day, the reality is there is sometimes a two-hour gap between trains and that’s where this coach service has proved a popular alternative.

“It shows this government is committed to building on our existing work to ensure regional communities are more liveable and better interconnect with each other.

“Safer, more efficient and diverse transport options were a focus of our 2012 Long Term Transport Masterplan and our new Future Transport strategy will keep us heading in that direction.”

Customers can receive bus service updates for their area by following @BusesInfo on Twitter or phoning the Transport Info Line on 131 500.