Her vision is still alive and Joan says she doesn’t want to go to the next world until she’s seen it through.
Last week, that vision took a crucial step forward when Federation Council endorsed a proposal to establish a regional on-demand public transport service within the Shire.
The proposal, prepared by Matthew Kane of Regional Bus Services, is the result of a petition conducted four years ago calling for an on-demand public transport service operating between Corowa, Rutherglen, Howlong and surrounding communities.
The petition received over 750 signatures, demonstrating strong and ongoing community demand for improved transport services.
Joan said she was excited after hearing of Council’s decision because a previous endorsement five years ago to trial a similar service never got off the ground, and this time around felt more akin to integrated planning.
“I see this evolving, which gives me a lot of confidence in the way forward,” Joan said.
“Someone said to me we had a better network of transport around this country when we had Cobb and Co, and this proposal is coming back to that (type of service).
“I think it has a wider application than is obvious.
“You don't know how many people miss out on things because if they can't do it, they don't try, so if it's available to them and they step up, you're meeting a need you hadn't identified before.
“Matt Kane is an amazing man who has the skills and the dedication to make this happen.”
Councillor Susan Wearne said a regional bus service between communities had been a long-time topic of discussion in the Howlong community, and a vital link to address social isolation, economic connectivity, and public transport deficiencies was needed.
“I fully support this recommendation; it’s urgently needed for our community” Cr Wearne said.
“This was looked at in a positive light by the Ageing Well Committee because it brings the townships of Corowa, Rutherglen and Howlong closer together.
“If Council supported this it would provide opportunities that we talk about, such as socialization, not isolation.”
Federation Council deputy general manager Jo Shannon reaffirmed that the proposed service was for the Corowa, Howlong and Rutherglen townships and their surrounding communities; it is not a bus service to Albury.
Slated to operate Monday to Friday between 8:00am and 4:30pm, the service will deliver flexible and accessible transport to residents.
Federation Council will seek cross-border municipal collaboration with Indigo Shire to further escalate the proposal to the NSW and Victorian Cross-Border Commissioners to maximise mutual economic and social benefits.
11°C