Yarra Ranges Transport Connect is a 3 year project (2007-2010) aimed at improving local transport, particularly in rural, regional and outer metropolitan communities.

The project is proudly auspiced by Eastern Volunteers and is one of 32 Victorian projects across Victoria funded by the Departments of Planning & Community Development; Infrastructure; Human Services and; Education & Early Childhood Development.

The project will focus on the following three regions of the shire, all deemed to be significantly “transport disadvantaged”:

• Healesville (and surrounds)
• Upper Yarra region
• Dandenong Ranges region

What does Yarra Ranges Transport Connect aim to do?

The project aims to assist individuals, community groups and agencies, transport providers and local businesses to develop tailored transport solutions, using existing public and private transport resources. This might include a new or altered bus route, additional bus stops, using community buses to operate weekend services, collaborating with taxi companies or working with the Shire to improve bike tracks or footpaths.

Two key initiatives so far have been the partnership with 13CABS which has resulted in an offer by the taxi company to provide over 50 new taxis licenses, limited to operation within the shire; and the extension of bus services to two of the routes through Healesville, which allows people from more isolated parts of the township a more convenient transport service.

How can you get involved?

You can be involved in a number of ways:

• by providing information on your transport ideas and/or issues
• by filling out a transport survey (see contact details below for a copy)
• by volunteering to assist with the project