20 new country coaches will improve regional passenger services

10/09/02
More than 230,000 passengers who use Western Australian Government Railways' country coaches each year will benefit from a $10million investment in 20 new road coaches.
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan today announced the award of the contract to Scania Australia Pty Ltd with work being undertaken by sub-contractor Volgren Australia's WA factory at Malaga.
Ms MacTiernan said the first coach should roll off the production line early next year with two new coaches to take to the roads each month until the fleet is fully operational in late 2003.
"This contract will secure more than 50 jobs and see approximately $4million spent within Western Australia," Ms MacTiernan said.
"More than 20 other WA businesses will benefit by supplying materials and parts."
Ms MacTiernan said the purchase of 20 new, quality road coaches demonstrated the Government's commitment to ensuring passenger services in regional WA were of a high standard.
"Reclining seats, DVD entertainment, access to a variety of music channels and personal air conditioning controls will help ensure an enjoyable journey on routes to 700 km long," Ms MacTiernan said.
"Other special features include a power operated wheelchair lift for easy access and a hearing loop circuit enabling people with a hearing impairment to hear the video, music channels and announcements more clearly.
"In addition, the coaches will be fitted out with Digital Closed Circuit Television providing a new level of security for passengers."
Ms MacTiernan said the design of the new fleet was developed with assistance from a number of special interest groups including passenger representatives, the Disability Services Commission and current road coach drivers.
WAGR's country passenger road coach services extend north to Kalbarri and Meekatharra, south-east to Esperance and south to Albany, Pemberton and Augusta.

Minister's office: 9213 6400