Michaela Meade
Eynesbury residents are calling for public transport to “connect us to the world”.
The Eynesbury township is about 45 kilometres from the Melbourne CBD, and does not have a public transport system.
Resident Adele Mowat said the lack of public transport in the area impacted young people and those with medical issues the most.
“There’s no way, apart from private vehicles, of getting to Melton or anywhere else,” Ms Mowat said.
“We’re surrounded by farm, forest and grassland here.
“For teens, they have to get to and from work or sporting commitments … they rely on their parents.
“There’s a few people who have medical issues or who don’t have a second car … they have to order Ubers.
“If you have multiple appointments a week, that really adds up.
“This township is about a decade old now, a lot of us who moved in with babies or toddlers now have teenagers.
“It’s time to think about connecting us to the world.”
Ms Mowat said the township’s isolation was heightened during COVID-19 lockdowns.
“We’re really isolated here … there’s no takeaway, no cafe,” she said.
“It’s been a really difficult time … it’s okay when we’re free and if you’ve got transport and the time, but everyone else … what do they do?”
Ms Mowat started a Change.org petition for the community to band together and have their voices heard.
The petition garnered 500 signatures within a week of being created.
Melton MP Steve McGhie’s office said he would support the petition, and table it in Parliament once it was received.
“Steve is keen to make sure that all residents have access to public transport where it’s appropriate and where it’s needed,” a spokesperson said.
“Steve will continue to raise issues with the [transport] minister on behalf of the community.”
Details: bit.ly/3mSssEx
