Youngs Bus Service is embracing Earth Day by giving Central Queensland drivers a free ride
Central Queensland’s Youngs Bus Service is waving fares in celebration of Earth Day on Wednesday, April 22.
Youngs Bus Service spokesperson Melissa Anderson says they got the idea from a public transport advocacy group in England.
“We are encouraging car drivers to re-consider their public transport options and try a new route.” she says.
“Travelling by bus provides more opportunity to be healthy and is better for the environment.”
Studies have shown that public transport users, average 41minutes of walking or cycling a day, compared to eight minutes for car drivers.
Although the day may cost the company more than $5000, Anderson is confident the move will send a strong message to those in Rockhampton and the wider region
“So any Central Queensland resident who can show the bus driver their car keys gets a free ride,” Anderson says.
“It will be a very expensive day for us, but we are not concerned about the cost.
“It’s all about showing residents that they have many options when it comes to getting around and helping them realise that using public transport is often the easiest, most convenient and healthiest option.”
The jury is still out on if people were getting the message about the benefits of using public transport and helping to cut emissions by not using private vehicles as much in Central Queensland.
“We will know much more after the day, regarding people transport behaviours in this particular region and this will also help us with our planning going forward,” Anderson says.
“We feel there will be a lot of enthusiasm and support for this in the community and we are really hoping people get involved on the day.”
Anderson says they have put a lot of time and effort into letting people in the community know about it, to give residents plenty of notice and an opportunity to get on board.