NSW Nationals Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead has announced that communities across the Manning and Great Lakes are set for a boost with regional transport services able to carry greater numbers of passengers throughout regional NSW from July 1 as COVID-19 restrictions ease, just in time for the school holidays.
Mr Bromhead said health experts had advised that capacity on all modes of public transport can now be increased in a COVID-safe way.
“With the increase in capacity, it will be great to see people back in beautiful Barrington Coast region, just in time for the school holidays,” Mr Bromhead said.
“After a challenging few months, we are excited to welcome more people back to the Myall Lakes where they can enjoy camping, fishing, hiking and surfing or just chilling out.”
Those without their own transport, will be pleased to learn that from next month, the Regional NSW Train Link rail fleet will allow for 34 customers per carriage, up from 16, while coaches will allow for 22 customers, up from 12.
“The new physical distancing capacities will mean more people will be able to book ahead on regional rail and coach services and come and explore all that our area has to offer,” Mr Bromhead said.
“Everyone travelling to and from the Manning / Great Lakes area needs to continue to be COVID safe and look out for the green dots for the best places to sit and stand. This will mean not sitting directly next to, in front of, or behind anyone.
“Enhanced cleaning measures are continuing on all modes of public transport with extra staff are helping customers move through stations safely, monitoring physical distancing and providing extra guidance to help them stay safe on the network.”
Visitors are encouraged to, plan ahead and check the local accommodation providers or visitor information centres in Taree / Forster / Pacific Palms or Bulahdelah before setting off on their journey to ensure that accommodation properties have space available.
