On Tuesday TBBCT feted 100 volunteer drivers, bus attendants and coordinators at a slap up Xmas lunch at the Ivory Tavern Tweed Heads.
In the past year TBBCT provided approx. 70,000 passenger trips across our region, assisting more than 2,800 seniors, people with disability, their carers and other transport disadvantaged people to a range of destinations including medical appointments as far afield as Brisbane and the Gold Coast, as well as to Lismore and to more local medical centres, including cancer treatment clinics.
TBBCT buses traversed the three shires providing a door to door service to shopping centres and home again, volunteers assisting to load and unload shopping, and volunteer coordinators organised fantastic day trips to various scenic and cultural destinations.
The lunch was supported in part by donations from GP’s and medical specialists, and we drew prizes donated by local suppliers who appreciate the good work our volunteers do.
We estimate our volunteers travelled over 2.5 million passenger kilometres on these journeys.
Highlights from the past year include:
In December 2013 TBBCT’s Volunteer Kenneth Bolt was awarded 2013 NSW Volunteer of the Year, and TBBCT received the inaugural Tweed Shire Council Access and Inclusion Award – the access and inclusion committee citing “ The transport service has taken exceptional steps for provide affordable and accessible transport, which is one of the biggest barriers to participation in community life in this region”
Some quotes from service users through the year:
“I find your drivers are top notch! They are respectful, helpful and caring people , and most have a great sense of humour
We feel so lucky to have these marvellous people as our supporters and helpers…it’s a pleasure and privilege to know and have such nice people in our community
“On all occasions I’ve used your service the drivers have been courteous, respectful, punctual, patient and friendly – could not ask for much more than that”
On the bus trips:
“It helps me keep my independence, I don’t need to be lonely and I can visit places that I normally can’t and I enjoy the company”
“Improved my social interaction. I would never have gone to Ballina by myself, (I) have gained new self esteem”
“Social outings on community transport services give me a lovely day out – making new friends and I get to laugh and enjoy myself”
