DAVENPORT COMMUNITY TRANSPORT SERVICE

Mrs VLAHOS (Taylor) (15:08): My question is to the Minister for Transport Services. Can the minister outline to the house the announcement last week relating to the establishment of a transport service for the Davenport community in our north?

The Hon. C.C. FOX (Bright—Minister for Transport Services) (15:08): I thank the member for Taylor for her interest in this matter. Last week, I announced a new transport service for an outlying regional community, and that is something that is very important for the people in Port Augusta. The future of the regions is very important for all South Australians. While the people over there were savaging each other on the merry-go-round of leadership destruction, we were actually doing something about building our regions and investing in our people.

Public transport services for the Davenport community commenced on 22 October and, following negotiations with the current contractor, Buses R Us, the Augusta Park loop service, which starts from the city centre, has been extended out to the Davenport community. The Augusta Park loop service will run three times each weekday. We are very pleased to be able to deliver this service for the Davenport community. It will provide a crucial link for the community to Port Augusta, with much wider benefits than simple convenience. I am sure that the member for Stuart is well aware of the needs of his particular constituents in that area.

Having this connection alleviates issues such as social isolation and it provides access to wider services. Buses R Us, the company offering the extended service, will be monitoring the route over the next three months to ensure a smooth introduction and ongoing operation. Buses R Us have been in constant communication with my department to bring about these new services, making it a strong collaborative effort. Overall, this new service is a significant win for people living in the Davenport community.