Public transport users’ group reconvening, advocating for region

THE Public Transport Users Association (PTUA) Ballarat is reconvening after an absence of well over a year, with anyone concerned about public transport issues being invited to join the group.

The interim convenor for PTUA Ballarat, Patrick Jarvinen, said an initial meeting has been locked in for 15 July.

He said the association typically lobbies for better connectivity and improved, more affordable public transport options.

“We are advocating for improvements to train, coach and bus networks, including local and regional buses,” he said.

“I just feel like public transport in regional Victoria has been neglected for decades.

“I, like many other people, see public transport as a public service and I think everyone should have access to reliable public transport.

“I don’t think enough is put into funding for public transport.”

Among current issues of concern in Ballarat is the relocation earlier this year of the V/Line passenger coach terminal to the northern side of Ballarat Station platform.

The V/Line coach terminal and airport shuttle bus terminal were relocated from the front of the station building due to safety issues to do with the movement of other vehicles in the station’s southern terminal precinct.

But Jarvinen said concerns about the new location now include a lack of updating information displays, audible announcements and other amenities for V/Line coach users.

The re-forming Ballarat branch will be affiliated with the wider state branch of the association, which itself has 14 committee members.

The Ballarat branch of the PTUA will represent public transport concerns across 12 Local Government Areas in western Victoria.

They include Ballarat, Hepburn, Moorabool, Central Goldfields and Pyrenees shires, along with the Golden Plains Shire which is also represented by the Geelong branch.

Jarvinen said residents of any of those LGAs are encouraged to get involved.

“The branch supports a return of passenger rail services between Geelong and Ballarat,” he said.

Anyone interested in becoming a member or getting more information can email [email protected]