Transit System has unveiled a specially designed bus it has made alongside Minjerribah artist Nathaniel Chapman and students from Dunwich State School in North Stradbroke Island.
The Volvo Irizar B8R bus, called ‘Jarjum Journey’, was revealed this week and has been funded by Queensland’s Department of Transport and Main Roads School Bus Upgrade Scheme.
It comes after the operator collaborated with Chapman and the school to design and fund all new sports shirts with bespoke local artwork.
Transit Systems North Stradbroke Island operations manager Shaun Gannon says the shirts and bus will immerse passengers and the community with the beauty of the local natural environment.
“We are proud to support Dunwich State School with the supply of new sports shirts and to showcase the talents of Nathaniel in championing the local environment,” Gannon says.
“We recognise the importance of investing in initiatives that empower our youth and strengthen the bonds within our community, and the collaborated efforts reflect our deep commitment to the community, with respect to the local culture, waterways and land.”
The artwork featured on the shirts and school bus includes a display of dolphins, a humpback whale, an eagle and a sea turtle while being surrounded by the sea and sun. Dunwich State School students worked alongside Chapman to bring their creative visions to life.
“This initiative not only enhances the school’s spirit, but also promotes creativity and unity among our 2200 island residents and the more than 200 students we service on the island each day,” Chapman says.
In addition to this initiative, Transit Systems says its Queensland operations remain committed to ensuring the safety of students during their daily commute.
Transit Systems says the company will soon launch a collaborative safe school presentation to educate students about safe bus travel practices.
“We prioritise the safety and wellbeing of all our passengers, especially students, ensuring they are confident and comfortable getting to where they need to go,” Gannon says.