A new six-month trial of a community-focused bus service has commenced in Yarrabah, with services redesigned following extensive consultation during an earlier trial period.
The updated trial, operated by Kinetic, focuses on improving access to essential services and shopping for residents of the Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire. The service runs twice weekly on Wednesdays and Fridays, providing direct connections between Yarrabah and Earlville Shopping Town via Gordonvale.
The revised timetable and route reflect feedback gathered during the initial trial, where community members identified priority destinations and travel needs. Based on that input, the service now concentrates on fewer days and clearer links to key services including retail, banking and healthcare.
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Kinetic general manager (North Queensland) John O’Brien says the refined approach demonstrates the importance of listening to community voices when designing transport services.
“We listened carefully to the Yarrabah community throughout our initial trial, and it’s clear that access to major shopping centres and essential services is a top priority,” O’Brien says.
“This community-focused service will provide reliable, affordable transport to Earlville Shopping Town twice weekly, giving residents better access to retail, banking, healthcare and other essential services.”
The service operates at a flat fare of 50 cents each way, with payment available by cash or credit and debit card. Travelling via Gordonvale also allows for improved connectivity while keeping costs low.
Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council has welcomed the continuation of the trial, describing reliable and affordable transport as critical for families, workers and Elders in the community.
“This service meets a very real need in our community,” Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council CEO Mike Miller says.
“Having a regular, low-cost bus service to places like Earlville makes a big difference for our mob.”
Miller says the service supports residents to access shopping, medical appointments, banking and employment, while also helping young people and Elders remain connected and independent.
“We appreciate Kinetic for walking alongside council, listening to our community and taking on board the feedback we heard throughout the first trial,” he says.
The second phase of the trial will continue to gather data and feedback to better understand travel patterns and community needs, with ongoing consultation planned throughout the six-month period.
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