WHEN a Community Development Officer put out feelers for a suggested community bus, she was pleasantly surprised with the responses.
Donna Sims from the Capel Shire said sporting and community groups had last week been emailed with an invitation to give feedback on the proposal.
“At this stage it is simply a proposal that is entirely dependent on a funding application as to whether or not it goes ahead,” Ms Sims said. “The responses will determine whether it be a 12 or 24 seater bus.”
Ms Sims said the bus could be used for all age groups and a hire charge would apply.
Spokesperson for the Boyanup Red Hat group Ann Shilcof applauded the initiative, saying it would be ideal for seniors groups who wanted monthly outings in the knowledge that transport would be available.
“To be driven to a destination as a group would be terrific,” she said. “I believe it will encourage seniors to leave their cars at home and get out and about by bus.”
Ms Sims said she had received positive responses from sporting, garden and art groups.
“Following the Shire’s strategic planning review for the next five years, we are identifying the needs in our community that have been expressed by various groups,” she said. “The area of transport is just one aspect we are exploring so we can plan ahead.”
Groups and individuals are being asked to respond to the shire by emailing dsims@capel.wa.gov.au by Friday December 5.