Rerouting coach timetable

COACH timetable changes impacting the Northern Rivers region are set to come into effect in mid-2026.

NSW TrainLink is calling for community feedback on the proposed changes, which include removing Eltham due to low passenger demand and ongoing issues with local road conditions.

But there would also be increased frequency on some more popular routes and new stops on some journeys, with many locations to offer improved journey times.

Ballina, for example, would be better serviced with day and night services in both directions connecting with trains at Casino under the proposed changes.

Connections to and from Sydney would also be improved.

The coach network services an area including Ballina, Tweed Heads, Murwillumbah, Lismore, Casino, Grafton, Port Macquarie, Taree and Newcastle.

A new route is proposed to operate on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday between Armidale and Port Macquarie and return, providing an Armidale to North Coast connection for the first time.

Coaches connect with rail services at Wauchope, giving access to and from Coffs Harbour, Grafton, the Northern Rivers, the Gold Coast and Brisbane.

Connections between Taree and Newcastle and return would increase in frequency from Monday to Friday to daily and there would be new stops at Manning Street, Taree, and Newcastle Interchange.

A new Monday to Friday day-return service is proposed between Tamworth and Newcastle, via rail interchange at Muswellbrook.

NSW TrainLink said the planned changes are based on extensive community and stakeholder feedback from a range of sources, including regular customer and operator feedback, plus the NSW Bus Taskforce.

The proposed coach timetable would not impact train times or services.

Following public consultation, a final service plan will be developed and coach operators will be able to apply for new NSW TrainLink contracts.

The deadline for community feedback is February 14.

For more information and to provide feedback visit haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/trainlink-coach-network-review