The family behind Langley’s Coaches have today announced they are the proud new owners of Australia Wide Coaches after a nearly two-decade separation.
Australia Wide Coaches (AWC) was originally founded in 1983, focusing on operations in the Sydney area.
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“I had started driving coaches around 1977, but it wasn’t until later that we decided to turn it into a business,” says Phil Langley, managing director of Langley’s Coaches.
“With Richard Dawes as our partner, it solidified our position in the industry, and Australia Wide Coaches really took off from there.”
For the next two decades, AWC would operate around the Sydney and Orange areas, offeringTrainLink services, premium express and charter services.
In the early 2000’s, Phil and Fiona decided to move on to the next chapter, ultimately selling AWC to Richard.
“We knew the business was in good hands with Richard, and it gave us the opportunity to focus on our existing operation at Langley’s Coaches,” Langley says.
The recent passing of Richard Dawes has been felt deeply by the family, with there being a tight bond between members of the Langley family and Dawes.
“Our children Michael and Sarah, growing up were very close to ‘Uncle Richard’ and throughout the years continued to work alongside him in their respective roles in our business.”
“It was a devastating loss for many people and for the industry.”
Looking to the future, the Langley family knew they could make an impact on the AWC brand.
“We are very pleased to be able to announce the acquisition of Australia Wide Coaches and are proud to be able to continue on the legacy of Richard, who we know was a very highly respected member of the Bus and Coach industry.”
“We have bought a few other businesses over the years, but this one particularly means a lot to us. Being our original company, it just made sense.”
The two companies will continue to operate as separate entities guided by Michael Langley & Sarah Hansen (Langley), with all staff and management transferring over.
Glenn Forster has been appointed the new general manager of AWC, overseeing all operations.
“We are committed to continuing the impeccable service that Australia Wide has always offered and are excited for a few things in the pipeline to continue to grow this wonderful company.”
Michael Dawes, Richard’s brother, who has been director of AWC since Richard’s passing says, “My brother, Rob and I are delighted that AWC will continue as its own entity, as the business was Richard’s life.”
“We are very excited that a younger generation in Michael and Sarah who were particularly close to Richard will be involved in the business. The acquisition by the Langley family completes a nice loop”.
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