IT seems not everyone is in love with the Bathurst Bullet.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
A bus company operator is seeking legal advice to fight the state government’s plan to start a daily rail commuter service from Bathurst to Sydney.
Australia Wide Coaches managing director Richard Dawes said yesterday the business would “cop a hit” when the new train service comes online from October, and he may be forced to cut his Orange to Sydney service.
“They [lawyers] have stated that I’ve got a good case,” he said. “It’s really very upsetting.
“It may affect the ongoing financial viability of a 25 year service,” he said.
Mr Dawes said while Orange passengers supported the bus service, he also relied on patronage from Bathurst. But he can’t see his company competing with the fares of the low-cost train service.
“I’m furious with the local politicians,” he said.
“We had a meeting with federal Member for Calare John Cobb and [state member for Bathurst] Paul Toole ... and [the concerns] have all gone unanswered. I’m really disappointed there was no consultation prior to the announcement.”
Mr Cobb yesterday said commuters were “lucky” to have alternative services for daily travel to Sydney to meet differing needs.
“Obviously, from the public’s point of view, competition is good and this has only come about because the public were crying out for it,” he said.
“Not only will this rail service make Sydney even more accessible to people in this region, but it will help in making the Central West even more accessible to tourists in the city, which will boost local businesses.”
Mr Dawes suggested the state government could buy seats on the Australia Wide coach service and “give them away,” at $2.50, to commuters.
“As far as coaches are concerned it’s quicker, it’s more comfortable and it departs Bathurst at a much more reasonable hour,” he said.
“It was an election promise but the government is trying to save money ... and they go and spend $7 million to refurbish a train.”
He said if he is forced to cut the service it will affect the local community. A spokesman for Transport NSW said the department was “happy” to discuss specific problems with the operator.
