New community bus for Maningrida

Rain, hail or shine, Maningrida residents can finally get to town in comfort with the arrival of their first community bus.
The large West Arnhem Land town has a population of nearly 4000 but has never had public transport.
Under its Remote Passenger Transport Program, the NT Government selected Bawinanga Aboriginal Corporation to operate the inaugural service.
Bawinanga Aboriginal Corporation CEO Ingrid Stonhill said the community is delighted.
“Many Maningrida residents are unlicensed, don’t have a car, or their car is unregistered,” she said.
“That means they have to either walk or organise a lift to get to work, the shops and their appointments, even in hot and wet weather.
“We are working with the West Arnhem Regional Council to come up with creative ideas for bus shelters.”
Ms Stonhill said the timetable would comprise hourly runs through each of the residential areas to deliver passengers to the commercial centre, supermarkets, workplaces, the art centre, and the airport.
“We were fortunate to get an NT Government’s Child and Family Centre Grant to buy the bus.  
 “It will be a free service while people get familiar with the timetable and routes, but we will charge a fare to recover costs when we sort out any kinks,” she said.
Ms Stonhill said the new service would also create training and work opportunities.
“Our mechanical workshop will service and maintain the bubs, and we will train and employ local bus drivers.”