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Despite the obstacles in its way, the Australasian bus and coach sector has still gotten off to a hot start in 2024
Across the Australasian bus and coach industry, there are plenty of forces standing in the way of both manufacturers and operators as they look to grow in their respective ways: a lack of skilled workers, supply chain and shipping delays, no direction on the zero-emissions transition and no widespread infrastructure in place to support it.
The February edition of ABC confronts some of these challenges. The biggest of these centres around Victoria’s public transport network and the mammoth Suburban Rail Loop project. While construction is starting, a mixture of bus and wider transport industry members have their say on what role an improved bus network can play in this defining undertaking from page 30.
In New South Wales, politicians have circled around Express Coach Builders as the Panel 4 release is causing the manufacturer to question its future. On page 44, associations and bodies are taking notice and calling for a streamlined procurement process.
All of these continue to confront the industry on a daily basis as companies filter out the temporary rust and get back to work in 2024. Despite these challenges that continue to pile up, the industry is continuing to produce amazing developments to start the new year.
For all of the exciting new technology that’s descending on the Australasian industry, it’s the consistent teamwork within the sector that remains as heart-warming as ever. The peak of these partnerships is the ongoing joint venture between BLK Auto and international chassis manufacturer MAN. Gracing our cover and starting from page 22, BLK Auto’s combination with MAN is still going strong in the region, with the successful pairing also focusing its collective vision on a
sustainable future.
This month, ABC sets its sights on the state of play when it comes to zero-emissions buses and coaches in Australasia. Alongside BLK Auto’s eco-friendly focus, VDI/Yutong’s commitment to battery electric buses has revolutionised Far North Queensland tour operator Tropic Wings. From page 34, the supplier/ manufacturer partnership is set to see a landmark number of electric buses complete charter runs to and from famous World Heritage Listed sites as early as this year.
We then head down to New South Wales, where Nexport and the Go Zero Group have found their own unique formula to penetrate the market on page 36. By leveraging its consortium partner North Sydney Bus Charters, the new Nexport electric coach is finding a home at many Sydney schools.
To continue the zero-emissions focus, E-T-A, from page 38, is hoping its new power distribution unit models are the global brand’s latest solution to
grow its market share in the electric bus industry, while BYD chats on page 42 about its latest milestone moment and a unique partnership at an upcoming global sporting tournament.
While Scania (page 40) continues to build on a momentous electric bus delivery in South Australia late last year with an exciting announcement, the January bus and coach deliveries highlight that the market is pushing through the array of challenges mentioned previously and supplying new vehicles at a grand scale.
From an operator perspective, on page 27, family businesses like Langley’s Coaches still have remarkable tales to share of their history running services for local Australian communities.
There may be plenty of obstructions to true bus and coach growth in Australasia, but this month’s stories prove there’s many tales of companies finding ways to not just survive, but also thrive.
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4. editorial | tackling issues
Despite the obstacles in its way, the Australasian bus and coach sector has still gotten off to a hot start in 2024
8. news | all aboard
An overview of the latest Australasian and international bus and coach news that you need to know features
21. column | bic
The BIC has two pillars it wants to see supported by the federal government on the upcoming budget night
22. cover story | blk auto
UNLIKELY PARTNERS
Five years ago, international chassis manufacturer MAN and BLK Auto agreed to work together on certain bus models. Now, the pair are reaping the rewards
27. operator | langley’s coaches
FAMILY PLANS
There are plenty of families that are happy to enjoy some time apart. The Langley family isn’t one. Instead, they decided to work together each day at the helm of a thriving coach touring operator in Dubbo, NSW
30. feature | victorian srl
The Victorian Suburban Rail Loop project, since its inception, has been popular among Victorian voters. Yet does the state’s bus network hold the key to a better public transport alternative?
34. zeb feature | vdi/yutong
A SPLASH OF GREEN
Tropic Wings Cairns Tours & Charters is no stranger to running green tours. It’s now taking this to a whole new meaning with a major order of Yutong electric buses in Far North Queensland
36. zeb feature | nexport
HOLY TRINITY
After welcoming a Sydney bus operator into its consortium last year, Nexport is finding plenty of avenues to showcase its latest electric school coach to the local market
38. zeb feature | e-t-a ELECTRIC FUTURE
For years, E-T-A has supported bus and manufacturers in their transition to zero-emissions operations. This year is set to see it build on this and further expand its reach in Australia
40. zeb feature | scania NEW DAWN
Scania broke new ground in late 2023 when it delivered its first electric city bus in Australia. Now, more exciting bus and coach technology is on the way in the near future
42. feature | byd POLE POSITION
A massive year for the BYD brand in 2023 has been rewarded with record-breaking global new energy vehicle sales. Now, a new partnership will allow BYD to spread its environmental ethos on the big stage in 2024
44. feature | panel 4 procurement SURVIVAL GAME
In NSW, Express Coach Builders is hoping that Procurement Panel 4 is released before the operator is faced with shutting up shop. The Australian bus industry is now joining forces to address the national procurement challenge
46. competition | best bus WENDOUREE WINNER
The February winner of ABC’s Best Bus, brought to you by VDI Australia, takes us to the Ballarat suburb of Wendouree
51. bus marketplace | classifieds FOR SALE!
Check out all these great listings from some of the leading bus and coach companies on the planet. Have a look and see what you might find.
53. events INDUSTRY EVENTS FOR 2024
Be sure not to miss out on an opportunity for these fantastic in person events
54. factory facts | bus deliveries JANUARY DELIVERIES
We have all the latest bus and coach supplier sales data collected and recorded for you review, check out how the market has performed in the past month
58. back seat | news PASSION PROJECT
With a deep love for buses and coaches, David Rae, or ‘Desto Dave’, is now working to preserve beautiful buses from yesteryear
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In early February, Singapore asset management company Keppel Infrastructure Trust (KIT) confirmed it acquired a majority stake in Ventura Bus Lines.
Now in its 100th year of operations, Ventura received two bids, with the Australian Financial Review (AFR) saying that Spain’s
Mobility ADO joined Keppel in offering final bids.
Flagstaff Partners, the financial adviser for Keppel, confirmed that Keppel acquired Ventura for an enterprise value of $600 million.
As part of the deal, Keppel acquired an approximate 98.6 per cent stake in Ventura.
Current Ventura managing director Andrew Cornwall will remain as CEO, retaining a minority stake in the business.
“As the new owner, KIT will further the successes of the Ventura team as the business enters its next phase of growth,” Keppel CEO Kevin Neo says.
Victorian operator Dyson Group has made a new appointment, with Stuart Overell taking over as the operator’s new head of its Melbourne operations.
With more than 650 buses and coaches and more than 1,300 staff, Dysons is a leading local operator for metropolitan and regional town route services, school bus solutions and premium charter services.
Now, it has a new spearhead of its Melbourne operations, with Overell joining the operator after experience as a CEO, COO, managing director and executive general manager across numerous industries.
“Exciting times lie ahead as we embark on the electrification of depots and the integration of battery electric buses,” Overell says on a LinkedIn post.
“Our commitment is to decarbonise operations and minimise environmental impact.
“I’m excited to lead the charge in adopting cutting-edge technologies to elevate safety, sustainability, efficiency, and customer service at Dysons. Looking
forward to contributing to our shared vision of a greener and innovative future.”
In other Dysons news, the operator also recently became one of the first companies to sign and partner with the Transport Workers’ Union (TWU) on the memorandum of understanding
to ensure safety and fairness for bus drivers across Victoria’s public transport network.
Dysons says it will follow the principles to ensure that it always works in a safe, fair and sustainable manner for bus drivers, passengers and other road users.
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Australasian bus and coach operator Kinetic has announced that it has acquired Murwillumbah bus companies Parsons Bus Company, Murwillumbah Bus Company (MBC) and Singh’s Bus Services.
With 33 buses and 39 team members, all three companies operate government-contracted and dedicated school services.
Kinetic says the acquisitions will deliver a significant uplift to Kinetic’s operations in the region, which currently centre on the Tweed Coast.
Kinetic co-CEO Michael Sewards says he is excited to expand Kinetic’s partnership and responsibility with the NSW
government in the north of the state.
“We know the Northern Rivers and Tweed Coast is an expanding region with strong tourism credentials and we look forward to expanding our commitment to NSW,” Sewards says.
“Collectively, these three businesses have a strong reputation, and we are excited to welcome new team members from Singh’s, Parsons and MBC to the Kinetic family.
“I would like to acknowledge the fantastic work that has been done by Gary and Harpal Singh and family, Suzanne Parsons and her son Peter Parsons and wife Lara.
The Western Australian government has announced that it is doubling the Public Transport Authority’s (PTA) School Bus Services (SBS) allowance to provide further cost-of-living support for regional WA families.
Changes to the conveyance allowance come after the WA government recently announced its Fare Free Sunday initiative and Ride to School Free Program for eligible SmartRider card holders in Perth.
The increase was recommended in the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee’s Bus Fair report and will see the base rate increase from 25.24 to 55.6 cents per kilometre.
“Most regional families will have access to the PTA’s SBS, but we know
in some cases that’s not possible, which is why the conveyance allowance is such an important measure,” WA transport minister Rita Saffioti says.
“This change represents the most significant increase in the conveyance allowance since 2002 and will make sure regional families that cannot use the SBS are appropriately compensated.”
“We will continue to provide industry leading services for the community of Murwillumbah and surrounds.”
MBC and Parsons Bus Company member Peter Parsons says the companies have a proud history in northern NSW, with his father John commencing the business in 1981, saying it was pleasing that Kinetic would continue with this legacy.
“We know Kinetic values safe and reliable services as highly as we do and I am pleased our drivers will continue to support the students and community of Murwillumbah,” Parsons says.
“You will see the same friendly faces behind the wheel and the team is excited to be joining Kinetic as it grows its operations in the region.”
Singh’s Bus Services member Gary Singh says he is proud of the strong community connections his team had formed in Murwillumbah, Tyalgum, Chillingham and Crystal Creek over many years.
“Our family has been privileged to transport generations of locals and we are happy that our team will continue to provide first class service to passengers,” Singh says.
“We know Kinetic shares our commitment to the community, and we look forward to this exciting new chapter.”
The increased conveyance allowance is the latest recommended change from the Bus Fair report to be approved, with eligibility changes for the WA government’s Student Transport Policy framework among those recommendations.
Under the framework, a conveyance allowance is provided to parents to help with the cost of driving their children to
and from school or, in some cases, to connect with a PTA-contracted school bus service.
“Getting to and from school is a crucial part of having a fair education system and offering accessible public transport makes it easier for every student, no matter their circumstances,” WA education minister Tony Buti says.
Following its sale to Keppel, Ventura recently opened Victoria’s first all-electric bus depot in Melbourne’s north-east
The Victorian government was on hand in February to officially open the bus depot, situated in Melbourne’s north-east.
The Ventura Ivanhoe depot has been converted to accommodate the state’s largest fleet of zero-emissions buses as part of the state government’s $20 million zero-emissions bus trial.
week and cover more than 1.2 million kilometres per year across the northern suburbs, completing routes in and around La Trobe University, Preston Market, Gowrie Station and Northland Shopping Centre.
Ventura is one of six operators across Victoria taking part in the three-year zero-emissions bus trial that will see 52 zero-emissions buses rolled out across Melbourne, Traralgon and Seymour.
Ahead of 2025, when all new
Above: Ventura is committing to zero-emissions operations in Melbourne.
Image: Ventura
the grid connection to support 14 dual-gun Tritium fast chargers.
Ventura managing director Andrew Cornwall says the operator’s experience in upgrading the fleet and depot has been “very exciting”.
“This project has given Ventura so much confidence in transitioning our remaining 11 depots and 900 buses to become a fully electric zero-emissions bus fleet in the coming years,” Cornwall told ABC
“It is a very bold move for a family company that has been relying on diesel powered buses for 100 years to know that the future for our customers, staff and stakeholders is to embrace these new electric buses powered by green energy.
“The feedback from customers and staff has been very positive and the reliability of the buses and the chargers has been excellent.”
Williams says the government is proud to be helping transition the Victorian public transport network to zero-emissions vehicles.
“We’re proud to be delivering Victoria’s first all-electric bus depot – providing passengers with a smoother and quieter bus ride and helping the state meet its commitment of net zero
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Both the Queensland Bus Industry Council (QBIC) and the Bus Industry Confederation (BIC) have responded to the review of Queensland’s Electrical Safety Act 2002.
In 2023, both QBIC and BIC expressed concerns that the review would result in only qualified electrical workers, not vehicle mechanical staff, being able to work on and maintain electric vehicles such as buses.
The response to this review has ruled out this change being made to the Act.
QBIC executive director Jason
evident in the industry’s low incident benchmarks.”
As an active collaborator with the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), regulatory training organisations and state transport regulators, QBIC and BIC continue to aim for a nationally safe industry.
O’Dwyer says the two bodies believe that a unified national approach is crucial for achieving consistency and safety throughout the industry, catering to all Australians.
“QBIC and BIC express contentment
“In our joint submission, QBIC and BIC strongly advocated for the recognition of the current safety record within the passenger transport industry.”
O’Dwyer says both QBIC and BIC are satisfied with the “sensible approach” taken in reviewing the Act, which was released by the Electrical Safety Office.
“In our joint submission, QBIC and BIC strongly advocated for the recognition of the current safety record within the passenger transport industry,” O’Dwyer told ABC
“We emphasised that Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), operators and their personnel already adhere to secure work systems within the bus industry, which is
with the report’s logical decision to maintain the current exemption of propulsion parts of EVs from the scope of the Electrical Safety Framework in Queensland,” O’Dwyer says.
“We anticipate further collaboration with the Electrical Safety Office in reviewing upcoming draft legislations.
“QBIC acknowledges some proposed changes in other sections that may raise concerns but assures a vigilant stance to ensure the decision’s original intent is preserved throughout future parliamentary processes.”
On the 78th birthday of legendary performer Dolly Parton, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recalled on ABC Radio the time he made sure Parton’s luxurious tour bus wasn’t banned from the country. Parton has a bus that’s larger than regulations as she doesn’t like flying, with Albanese, who was then the transport minister, having to stop NSW authorities from banning the bus from Australian roads.
UK operator Oxford Bus Company has revealed some of the weirdest items left behind by passengers onboard its buses. Included in the round-up of lost items were musical instruments, a Donald Trump toilet paper roll, Voldemort’s wand from Harry Potter and boxing gloves. Of course, among the 2,950 items left on buses in 2023, some got more risqué, but toilet rolls and wands should be enough to intrigue you for now.
This time to Ireland, where a recent TikTok showed someone stumbling upon a ‘graveyard’ of old buses in an empty field. The random field was explored, with a range of abandoned buses in the unknown Ireland field showing old fire engines and many vintage buses and coaches left to themselves.
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Volvo Bus Australia is starting the new year looking to strengthen its team and commitment to customers after announcing the appointment of two new roles.
Chris Hartmann has been announced as Volvo Bus Australia’s new electromobility field service specialist, while Travis McFayden has moved into the role of major accounts sales support coordinator.
“Volvo Bus is working hard to ensure the right processes are in place for our customers and that includes putting the right people in the right roles,” Volvo Bus Australia general manager Mitch Peden told ABC
“The shuffling of existing team members into these newly created roles cements our commitment to supporting our customers, providing quality and quick support wherever we can and continuing to provide the service Volvo is known for.”
Hartmann has moved into the newly created role with a primary purpose of providing in-field electromobility technical support for Volvo Bus customers and dealers.
Based out of the Brisbane head office, Hartmann will be servicing customers and dealers around the country
with specific electromobility support requirements, with his appointment adding to the state-based regional service managers who provide e-mobility support.
Having previously worked as a field service engineer in Perth on the PTA contract under Lee Williams, Hartmann takes on the new role with a wealth of on-the-ground experience with Volvo BZL Electric vehicles.
McFayden has moved into the role of major accounts sales support coordinator and will work directly with Volvo’s national sales team under national sales manager Tony Lowrey.
Volvo Bus Australia says the change has been facilitated to provide support to the sales team in preparing high quality bus deliveries while also maintaining the high level of customer support that the industry has come to know and expect from Volvo.
After joining the Volvo Bus Australia team in October 2022 in the bodybuild and quality team, McFayden brought experience with him dating back to his role as the leading hand at VCV Bus Support in Newcastle, NSW.
With a strong technical
Above: Chris Hartmann is Volvo’s new electromobility field service specialist.
Below: Travis McFayden has plenty of experience in the bus industry.
background and experience with both Volvo’s diesel and electric technology, Volvo Bus Australia says McFayden has done a fantastic job of servicing and supporting Volvo buses. Following this move, Volvo is now moving to bring on a new team member to support the new model introduction and the brand’s continued evolution of new bodybuild partners.
Queensland’s bus network is set to gain a fresh, account-based smart ticketing system soon after Cubic Transportation Systems (CTS) announced that the new system is being rolled out this year and into 2025.
CTS and Queensland’s department of transport and main roads (TMR) have been in partnership for more than two decades, with the original system launching in 2008.
The system covered all Translink buses and other forms of public transport in the greater Brisbane, Ipswich, Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast regions.
After 10 years, Queensland’s department of transport and main roads (TMR) worked again with CTS to upgrade the existing system to be an account-based solution that offers new ticketing and payment capabilities.
Smart ticketing equipment is being progressively installed on South East Queensland buses and ferries to make way for customer trials of contactless payment, with installation on regional buses to follow
“Queensland’s smart ticketing solution shares DNA with some of the world’s leading cities and offers the most advanced, futureproof technology available,” CTS managing director and vice president John Karaboulis says.
“We’re proud that our local team, supported by our colleagues around the globe, have been trusted by Queensland for more than 20 years to provide this critical service.”
“As Queensland approaches the
“Queensland’s smart ticketing solution shares DNA with some of the world’s leading cities and offers the most advanced, futureproof technology available.”
2032 Olympic Games, we’re mindful that public transport will be essential to access venues, which means we need to provide an easy-to-use, flexible and reliable ticketing system as people from around the world visit Queensland.”
CTS says the system will enable users to pay for journeys using all types of
contactless payment, including mobile phones, wearable watches and physical credit and debit cards, as well as the Go Card and cash.
Other major cities, including Sydney, New York, London, San Francisco and Chicago, have all used CTS’s fare collection system in their respective bus networks.
Global bus and coach service operator Kinetic has announced the internal promotion of two Tasmanian locals to its state-wide leadership team.
As part of the promotions for Kinetic, former Hobart manager Andrew Grzinic has been appointed to oversee the company’s Tasmanian operations as general manager of Tasmania after acting in the role for the past three months.
Kinetic says Grzinic offers a wealth of local transport experience, having served as the general manager of Redline before the business joined Kinetic in 2021.
His prior experience in tourism is also set to help build Kinetic’s charter offerings across the state.
Grzinic has been joined by Grace
Van Beest in the appointments, who has been promoted to manage Kinetic’s southern Tasmania operations.
Van Beest was part of the familyrun O’Driscoll’s business that was acquired by Kinetic in 2023.
“Under Kinetic’s ownership, last year I had the opportunity to step up into operational and supervisory roles after 16 years, and now I’m excited to be leading our team across the region,” Van Beest says.
“It’s exciting and challenging – I feel like I’m starting afresh. I’m grateful for the opportunity and hope to encourage other women to think about a career in transport as a driver or in a support or management role.”
Kinetic, the operator of government-contracted bus services
“Kinetic, the operator of governmentcontracted bus services and the SkyBus airport express, says the internal promotions signal its longterm commitment to advancing Tasmania’s transport sector.”
and the SkyBus airport express, says the internal promotions signal its long-term commitment to advancing Tasmania’s transport sector.
Kinetic executive general manager of Tasmania, Victoria and NSW, Graham Smith, congratulated the pair on their appointments, saying they both strongly reflect Kinetic’s values and commitment to enhance the livelihoods of communities.
Grzinic says he’s looking forward to building on the achievements of the Tasmanian team.
“I’m excited to lead the team as we work to deliver a safe, reliable bus service in partnership with the Tasmanian government,” Grzinic says.
Prior to the promotion, Grzinic played an important role in supporting the delivery of key programs, including the successful roll-out of the Kinetic brand in Tasmania as it replaced Redline and Merseylink.
The re-brand was supported by a $10 million capital investment program that included fleet and depot upgrades in Launceston and Hobart, as well as an overhaul of the Hobart transit centre.
Belgian bus manufacturer
Van Hool has appointed Marc Zwaaneveld as its co-CEO alongside current CEO Filip Van Hool.
While Filip Van Hool will focus on managing the day-to-day activities, Zwaaneveld’s focus will be to accelerate its recovery from COVID.
Van Hool says that its finances were hit hard during the pandemic due to disrupted supply of materials, high inflation and a decline in coach demand.
Van Hool says the sharp decline in demand for coaches was heightened by geopolitical situations and inflation that disrupted material supplies.
Zwaaneveld is known for his experience in managing companies that need a boost.
Van Hool says that initial recovery of volumes and order books are already in process, with Zwaaneveld to stay on as co-CEO until the recovery plan is complete.
Having been founded in 1947, Van Hool still has more than 3,500 employees worldwide, working at its two production sites in Koningshooikt, Belgium and Skopje, North Macedonia.
Transit System has partnered with United States-based operator LibertyBus to introduce the first fleet of electric buses for the operator.
Transit says the operator’s move to electric buses aligns with Jersey’s commitment to reduce carbon emissions and a create a cleaner and greener island.
“We are thrilled to introduce electric buses to the LibertyBus fleet,” LibertyBus director Kevin Hart says.
“This represents a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to sustainable travel.
“The adoption of electric buses not only aligns with our environmental
responsibilities but also enhances the overall travel experience for our passengers.”
Transit says the electric buses are expected to contribute to a reduction in air pollution, noise and overall carbon footprint.
The buses include other
innovative features, including USB charge points on every seat, a passenger announcement system and information display, an induction loop for hearingimpaired people and camera monitor system mirrors.
The BIC has two pillars it wants to see supported by the federal government on the upcoming budget night
The Australian Federation often presents a challenge to effective government. The tier of government that collects the most tax (the Commonwealth) is not the same tier of government that delivers the most services, including public transport. In our advocacy to the Commonwealth, we’re often told that they don’t invest in rolling stock, including buses and coaches.
So how can the Commonwealth help us meet our goal of a thriving bus and coach industry that moves people safely and sustainably?
This year, we have focused our Commonwealth Budget pre-submission on two critical issues facing the industry which the government can assist with.
The first relates to the ongoing Industry in Crisis campaign that we launched last year as manufacturers and suppliers faced the perfect storm of hyperinflation, skills shortages, supply chain challenges and a government buyers strike.
In the 2022/23 budget, the federal government committed $14.2 million to deliver and implement a National Rail Manufacturing Plan. The bus industry seeks the equivalent commitment to maintain bus manufacturing in Australia so we can continue to carry Australia’s most precious freight – people.
“Skills and workforce shortages remain a critical issue for operators and suppliers.”
This funding would enable the government to establish an Office of National Bus Industry Coordination, which would work closely with state and territory governments, manufacturers, industry peak bodies, unions and research organisations. It would be tasked with leading a national and coordinated approach to addressing the challenges facing the bus industry from a manufacturing and supply perspective, as well as operationally.
A key deliverable of the office would be the development and implementation of a National Bus Manufacturing Plan. A vital first step under the plan would be to deliver a National Bus Procurement Roadmap and Manufacturing Strategy recognising that there should be enough demand for Australian manufactured, partially
imported and fully imported buses.
Key pillars of the plan could include:
1. A nationally coordinated and sustainable approach to bus and coach procurement. This would include a detailed roadmap for the transition to low and zero-emissions bus fleets and the provision of supporting infrastructure (highlighting additional local manufacturing and supply opportunities).
2. The harmonisation of standards and specifications for the manufacture of buses across Australia. This would ensure that jurisdictions agree on the same type of specifications for components and localise their production where possible.
3. The adoption of a national local content approach with consistency in terminology, including the definition of local and calculation methodologies.
4. The maximisation of opportunities for local manufacturing and assembly and potential export.
5. Improved research, innovation, collaboration and design, particularly as the fleet transitions to low and zero-emissions.
Skills and workforce shortages remain a critical issue for operators and suppliers. In an increasingly technologically oriented world, the bus industry faces fierce competition for technical skills and will need new strategies to attract and retain these skills in an industry still perceived as dirty, heavy and male dominated. Promoting the industry as a hub for innovative technology, environmental sustainability and diverse career opportunities can help shift perceptions and attract a broader talent pool.
To help us address this, we have asked the National Transport Commission be funded to work in collaboration with partners, including industry, unions, the state and territory governments and across the Commonwealth to develop and implement a National Heavy Vehicle Skills Program. It would recognise that the industry requires more workers with all kinds of skills, from drivers to cyber security experts, and experts in new technologies. A key component of this will be a focus on how we attract, retain, grow and diversify the driving workforce, including addressing impediments and deterrents.
We wait now to hear the outcomes of our bid on budget night (May 14). Please join us in advocating for these important measures with your local federal members and relevant ministers.
Five years ago, international chassis manufacturer MAN and BLK Auto agreed to work together on certain bus models. Now, the pair is reaping the rewards, with more stellar combinations not far away
It’s not every day that two manufacturers in the same industry work together to produce a popular product. The Australasian bus and coach industry isn’t your normal sector.
When BLK Auto, who was known as Bus and Coach Sales Australia in 2019, looked to improve its standing as the sole importer of BLK buses and coaches in Australia, it focused within the industry for a unique partnership. By combining to thrive, in February 2019, BLK Auto signed an agreement with international chassis manufacturer MAN Truck & Bus to produce combined bus models for the Australian market.
“The agreement was signed to initially build two BLK President 2 and two
Senator 12 bodies on the MAN two-axle chassis,” BLK Auto sales manager Mark Nichols told ABC
“The first of the President 2 vehicles arrived in Australia in September 2019 and was proudly displayed at the 65th BusVic Expo and Maintenance Conference at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre in October.”
Working with a fellow manufacturer or supplier in the vehicle game isn’t a standard way of growing one’s share in the market, but BLK Auto and MAN both looked to buck the trend.
Initial discussions began between Bus and Coach Sales Australia’s Rodd Hood and Athol McKinnon and Penske Australia. The team quickly realised there was an opportunity in the Australasian
market for an OEM European chassis with a quality well-built imported bus body that would give operators a high-quality option at a reasonable and respectable price.
Not long after the partnership was formalised, Crinel Geaboc joined Penske Australia as the head of MAN Bus & Coach Australia. He says the decision to combine and provide a reliable and safe chassis on an affordable body has been popular in Australia due to its value for money. It’s only the beginning of the partnership between the two brands.
“For more than half a decade, the partnership has consistently delivered good value between the European-made and German-engineered chassis and the high-spec and quality bus body,”
Geaboc told ABC
“It’s still one of the best value for money bus and coach packages available that’s crafted for Australian customers.”
The partnership began with demonstrator buses in the form of MAN’s high-floor two-axle chassis that were bodied by BLK Auto’s Senator 12.5m and President models. After showing the combined model off to local operators, orders quickly began coming through.
“We’re now looking to stock chassis on the ground at the BLK factory overseas,” Geaboc says.
“The ongoing high demand for the models means we’ve been able to have vehicles ready to roll into any fleet in Australia from Brisbane.”
Geaboc says the BLK-bodied MAN models have become a leading option in the MAN staple throughout Australia. While MAN continues to produce chassis that have alternatives bodies on them, Geaboc says BLK’s offering is a popular choice for customers due to the affordable nature and high quality of BLK’s bodies.
From the 4x2 President 2 bodied buses to a high-end Euro VI coach with two doors, a toilet and 510hp, MAN and BLK Auto are working together to provide luxurious and cost-effective combinations. The partnership has developed to the point that MAN is working with BLK Auto this year to introduce its new cutting-edge electronic architecture on BLK-bodied models.
“The new platform, named ELSA, has been released by MAN in Europe and we’ll see it in Australia in due course,” Geaboc says.
“The platform comes with increased IT security management and all of the latest safety technology, including MAN automatic suspension control (VASC) as standard fitment and a raft of optional advanced driver assistance systems like collision warning systems, lane change support (LCS), lane return assist (LRA), traffic jam assist, MAN AttentionGuard and traffic sign recognition integrated in the colour instrument cluster, just to name a few.”
When the new system arrives on MAN chassis in Australia this year, including a new colour display dashboard for drivers, it’ll first feature on MAN models with BLK bodies on top.
This local partnership has been critical to MAN’s ability to offer products in a fast timeframe for customers around Australia, with its bond with BLK Auto allowing MAN to offer the right product for customers at specific budgets so that they can get the safest and most reliable chassis possible.
“The volume of these units
For more than half a decade, the partnership has consistently delivered good value between the Europeanmade and German-engineered chassis and the high-spec and quality bus body.
Above: Operators around Australia have invested in the BLK/MAN combination
Below: MAN’s new platform is set to launch with BLK bodies in Australia
Opposite, Top: Five years ago, BLK Auto and MAN combined to produce bus and coach models in Australia
retailed by both MAN and BLK Auto has increased in the past five years because of the increased demand for such a product,” Geaboc says.
“The combination of a reliable chassis underneath a great body option has been attractive for the local market.”
Outside of a market boost, both parties have also learnt valuable knowledge from each other throughout the five-year partnership to date.
The parties have since been able to rebound from COVID-19 by supplying existing orders, including penetrating the Western Australian school bus market for the first time this year courtesy of a recent delivery of four BLK/ MAN school buses. With the two companies sharing an eagerness to grow their market share and continually support each other, both BLK Auto and MAN are relying on each other to thrive in Australia.
“To be able to work closely together throughout the build, delivery and aftersales service is very important in supplying a
quality product with great support for the operator,” Nichols says.
“Should an issue arise, whether it be customer specifications, during the build or after delivery, both companies work together as a team to rectify any situation.”
BLK Auto’s roots of building more than 5000 buses per year means that, at its overseas factory, it builds on several different European chassis as well as its own. When the MAN partnership started, it was a simple switch to begin building bodies on top of
Above:
High quality BLK Auto bodies are blossoming on the MAN chassis
Below: MAN and BLK Auto both have ambitions to work on zeroemisisons models in the near future
MAN’s evolving chassis technology.
“Having the option to build on a European chassis has given operators in Australia a choice, pending on their own business model and preferences,” Nichols says.
“The MAN chassis is ever-evolving with new technology, which we’ll continue to work closely with them on to build a vehicle that uses chassis options to reach its full potential.”
The growing partnership between BLK Auto and MAN in Australia isn’t set to stagnate anytime soon – both companies hold hopes of growing the partnership into the zero-emissions space in the near future.
“It makes sense to work together on this, as BLK Auto has its own zero-emissions models,” Geaboc says.
“It’s on our roadmap to develop together a similar combination that includes electric batteries
based on customer requirements.”
BLK Auto says MAN is one of a handful of European OEMs that it’s in discussions with to build both zero-emissions and further diesel buses and coaches with. With BLK Auto receiving numerous enquiries from larger operators for various zero-emissions vehicles, its MAN bond may be set to expand further in the near future.
“We’ll continue to work closely to build quality vehicles for our customers that meet their required specifications,” Nichols says.
“Arrangements have been made between BLK Auto and MAN/ Penske Australia to have several chassis staged at the BLK factory to eliminate chassis build and shipment schedules, reducing the time it takes to build and ship a vehicle.
“This will be the tip of the iceberg for what the future holds for BLK Auto and MAN in Australia.”
There are plenty of families that are happy to enjoy some time apart. The Langley family isn’t one. Instead, they decided to work together each day at the helm of a thriving coach touring operator in Dubbo, NSW
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motorcade of vehicles to begin their trip of the regional NSW town.
in New South Wales, Sarah Hansen braves the wet and bleak conditions, her headset on and an extra two way communication network established to ensure the day went smoothly.
Inside the airport, Sarah’s father Phil, also the founder and joint managing director of family operator Langley’s Coaches, sits in a secure area, tracking a combination of jets that are quickly descending upon Dubbo, cutting through the dense clouds.
It was a day the Langley family had been waiting for throughout 2018. It all went quickly. The jets landed, and out stepped Prince Harry and Meghan Markle as they began their high-profile Australian tour. After meeting hundreds of people on the slippery runway at Dubbo, the pair headed into a
In the front seat of a vehicle in the motorcade was Phil, living a moment he and the entire Langley’s Coaches crew would never forget.
“My daughter Sarah convinced me that this was a moment I didn’t want to miss, and boy, was she right,” Phil says.
While the royal visit of 2018 to Dubbo was a milestone moment in the history of the NSW town, it was also a seminal moment for Langley’s Coaches.
The history of the family
pair planned their shared future together. Starting with one small coach, Langley’s Coaches officially became an integral part of the Dubbo community.
touring. In the years that followed, he held management positions in Deluxe Coachlines and Australia Wide Coaches while also being formally trained in tour operations by Australian Pacific Tours.
“Ever since I was a young lad in Holbrook, I would watch the Pioneer Coaches travel past my school and I would tell anyone who would listen that I was going to drive them one day,” Phil told ABC
After getting a start at various companies, Phil’s life became additionally intertwined with coach touring. When at the wheel of a tour around the Whitsundays, Phil met passenger Fiona. The
two realised they had plenty in common – when Phil disembarked with the passengers and sailed around the islands with them for a week, the pair got to know each other. The rest is history.
“As a coach driver at heart, Phil’s proposal was as romantic as you’d expect,” Fiona Langley told ABC
“We were waiting for a coach to come in and he turned to me and asked if I’d ever think of marrying him. I told him he should just ask. He did, and that was it.”
At the time, Fiona was a
The small operator opened its first dedicated office in Depot Road in a space attached to its shed. After outgrowing the first block, the couple bought a second, before having to relocate to Jannali Road, where Langley’s still proudly resides to this day. Featuring an office, departure lounge, purpose-built workshop, wash-bay and coach parking bays, it signals the incredible rise of a family company that is still in touch with its roots.
“My first memories of buses and coaches was being at the zoo every weekend while mum and dad ran zoo tours,” Sarah told ABC
“They then began doing school runs for disabled children for many years and expanded into other school runs, before buying touring runs from other companies to continue growing.”
Alongside the trio, Sarah’s brother Michael Langley is the operator’s fleet manager. Sarah remembers her and Michael being taught as children how to wash buses after they came back from tours. Despite this upbringing, neither sibling was forced into working for the family business. Instead, Sarah moved to Sydney to work as a nurse before realising her calling and deciding on her own to come back and work at Langley’s.
“Both Michael and Sarah came into the business on their own free will – we think it’s really important that we didn’t coerce them into
night per week and we have a rule that there’s no work talk – we stick to it most times.”
These simple rules have allowed the family to shine in recent years. Langley’s Coaches currently has 18 school runs and around 70 vehicles in its fleet, organised and driven by roughly 40 employees. Work differs from school transfers to the high-profile movement that Langley’s helped organise when it was asked to transport the Duke and Duchess of Sussex in 2018.
For years, the only peace and quiet the Langley family could get away from their business was to take a flight out to Norfolk Island. With no phone signals available, only then could members of the Dubbo tour company unwind. Instead of relishing this haven, the Langley family decided to extend their work into their favourite holiday destination.
“We knew the owner of Pinetree Tours, the charter company running buses on Norfolk Island,” Sarah says.
“When we heard the owner wanted to sell, we decided as a family to take on the business. Ten days later, COVID hit and the
whole island was shut down.”
Despite this initial speedbump, the Langley family has now established operations on the island to run Pinetree Tours alongside Langley’s Coaches. Sarah says the operator keeps in touch with the independent team on Norfolk Island via Microsoft Teams, while the Langley family often flies to the island every few months to help run the business.
“We’ve taken tour groups over there for the past 15 years and it’s still one of our more popular tours, so we’ve now been able to run it smoother with Pinetree Tours,” Sarah says.
When it comes to finding new tour options, Langley’s Coaches is meticulous. Before it becomes part of Langley’s services, the family travels along the route, seeing if it’s feasible and an enjoyable trip for customers to take.
While at it, Langley’s is also consciously heading towards ultimate luxury touring, with its 20-seat full size coach allowing it to plan for a stylish future.
It’ll continue doing these services in the future as Langley’s always remains open to taking people around the many tours
that Australia and the wider world has on offer. While doing so, the family knows that it’s cultivating something special as a family operator that continues to excel in the local operator environment.
“I feel so proud of what my parents have done. They don’t like being the centre of attention, but they’ve done such a big thing for so many people,” Sarah says.
“Our slogan is ‘your smile is our reward’, and the company has made people so happy. All of the hard work is paying off.”
The Victorian Suburban Rail Loop project, since its inception, has been popular among Victorian voters. Yet does the state’s bus network hold the key to a better public transport alternative?
In the lead-up to the 2018 Victorian state election, the government at the time had a trick up its sleeve.
When then premier Daniel Andrews began campaigning in August that year, three months prior to the election, he unveiled a secret project that would have mammoth consequences on the state’s transport industry.
“A re-elected Andrews government will start work on the biggest transformation of public transport in Australian history,” Andrews said.
“A new underground rail network, known as the Suburban Rail Loop, will circle Melbourne’s suburbs.”
Just days later, the Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) was unveiled in its full design. Incorporating 90 kilometres of track in an orbital network around Melbourne’s outer suburbs, the proposed public transport project was slated to connect 11 existing rail lines at an estimated cost of $50 billion.
Starting in the south-east of the city and circling all the way around to the west, where it would then provide a crucial rail link to Melbourne Airport, the project was a key cog in the Labor government’s election push in both its 2018 and 2022 state election victories.
In the years since the plan was first hatched by Andrews and current premier Jacinta Allan, who in 2018 was the transport and infrastructure minister, budget constraints, delays and rising costs have caused transport stakeholders to re-evaluate the effectiveness of the SRL. As the executive director of the Bus Association of Victoria (BusVic), Chris Lowe
is one member of the transport industry who holds doubts about the rail project.
“The SRL has the potential to be a white elephant for Victoria because the whole concept was never part of any metropolitan or state-wide planning processes,” Lowe told ABC
“There was no foresight about the issue – it was a last-minute concept taken to the electorate that will cost a lot more money than what the state can afford.”
While construction began in early 2022 for the first part of the project in SRL East, which will link Cheltenham to Box Hill in the north-east of Melbourne, both the transparency of the government’s design
process and the overall cost of the plan has come into question.
Despite the project already being underway, Lowe questions whether the orbital loop would be better served running as a high-capacity bus network that can serve the suburbs at a cheaper cost than the existing rail plans.
“Melbourne already has three orbital bus services in the 901, 902 and 903 SmartBus services that circumferentially traverse the
more cost effective they are and how much quicker they are to build than rail infrastructure, BusVic believes the state government should be considering replacing the SRL with a suburban bus loop.”
Under Lowe’s plan, which BusVic has formally released in publications, the bus loop would use existing roads and add on-road priority lanes to create a bus rapid transit network. Instead of tunnelling to create rail tracks, the bus loop could be run on the current road network, with a higher frequency of buses creating a rapid service of zero-emissions vehicles that carry large quantities of people each day.
If this plan was to go ahead, Lowe says the buses could be delivered and operating on the road in under five years, compared to the decades-long projections of the SRL project. By ordering a fleet
sooner,” Lowe says.
“Given that the state is in a lot of debt and there’s an urgency to implement these outer suburban services, that’s more than sufficient cause to replace the SRL with a suburban bus loop.”
BusVic has put this suggestion to the state government but suspects it won’t be taken up. There’s a key reason behind this and the state government’s broader preference to invest in rail networks over bus networks. Despite bus networks being cheaper and quicker to implement, rail is the only other land transport option that competes with the fast travel time that comes with travelling by car, making it a more popular electoral policy.
“The SRL will be a super-fast network and will compete with the car in the time it takes to travel from one place to another
The SRL will be a super-fast network and will compete with the car in the time it takes to travel from one place to another – something that even SmartBus networks can’t do.
– something that even SmartBus networks can’t do,” transport engineering professor at Monash University and director of the Public Transport Research Group Professor Graham Currie told ABC
“The current orbital bus loop from Frankston to Melbourne Airport takes almost four hours at an average of around 26kph, while by car or train it takes just over an hour.”
Despite the high cost attached to it, Currie, with his rich experience in urban transport planning, believes the SRL will provide a high-quality railway that will also help generate new demand in outer suburban regions. He says the thinking behind the loop is to create other suburban hubs, such as the likes of Parramatta and Chatswood that surround Sydney,
project, and something we don’t normally see from governments,” Currie says.
“I think the focus should also be, alongside delivering the SRL, on how the state can improve its bus services, because right now our bus network is crying out for more services – we’re heavily under-bussed in Melbourne.”
Instead of replacing the SRL, Currie sees an opportunity for the bus network to improve and provide a vital cog in the transport chain around some of the proposed SRL stations that may be difficult to access once built. A key area that needs these supplementary bus services is the western side of Melbourne, where a population boom in recent years has led to traffic congestion.
“The western development of
many indirect routes,” Currie says.
“The answer to this for the bus network is straightforward and simple: you need to increase the frequency of services.”
Currie isn’t the only voice raising queries about the quality of public transport in the west. For the past couple of years, Friends of the Earth has lobbied for better buses in the west to ensure people can get to their nearest train stations.
“This June will mark three years since Victoria’s Bus Plan was released and we haven’t really seen any reform during that whole period,” Friends of the Earth Melbourne Sustainable Cities community organiser Elyse Cunningham told ABC
“We think that 2024 is the year for the state government to act and escalate services in the west.”
pilot bus reform in the Wyndham area, which is solely run by operator ComfortDelGro Australia (CDC). Previously, Cunningham has been told by the government that multiple bus companies running services in the one area has blocked reform. With Wyndham not being inhibited by this, Cunningham is hoping to see the pilot announced within the next six months.
“The best way to focus on the west and improve public transport infrastructure is to increase services and restructure bus routes,” Cunningham says.
“So far, this has only taken place incrementally with one route added at a time, and it takes years for any new service to be approved. What we need is a network-wide transformation of our bus routes in order to keep up with the
the benefits that buses can deliver for Victorians,” the spokesperson says.
“Through initiatives such as better contracts with operators, improving existing routes and adding new ones, or transitioning our fleet to zero-emissions, we’re ensuring that buses play a stronger role in a transport network that’s critical to growing a more prosperous, liveable and connected Victoria.”
Despite this bus focus, the state government isn’t considering changing the SRL to a bus-based rapid transit network. The spokesperson says the SRL, when complete, will take more than 600,000 cars off the roads every day and provide a seamless public transport option.
“With Melbourne’s population set to be the size of London’s by the 2050s, we can’t afford to not invest in city-shaping projects that will provide more jobs and housing options while keeping our city moving,” the spokesperson says.
It’s not enough to satisfy members of the bus industry like Lowe. He says governments have always preferred investments in rail over road, and it’s a cultural mindset he’s trying to crack.
“In Victoria, we’ve got a preference associated with our trams and rail-based modes of transport, while bus networks don’t curry the same favour,” Lowe says.
“We have to look for more affordable modes of transport and we need to
Buses must play a big role in the future of the state’s transport network – their latest technology includes the likes of bus rapid transit systems
current pace of population growth and provide people in the west with equitable access to society as those in other areas of metropolitan Melbourne.”
All of these complaints, both about the SRL and the Victorian bus network, were put to the Victorian government. In a response to ABC, a state government spokesperson says the bus operating budget has consistently increased each year, with the government investing more than $550 million in new and upgraded bus services since 2014.
“We recognise the important role that buses play in our local areas and our public transport network, which is why we’re focused on reforming our bus network across the state and unlocking more of
embrace the bus. It’s efficient, green and clean with zero-emissions. We’re saying that the bus loop is a better financial and timely option to consider, so the state needs to embrace it more to make the bus front and centre.”
Infrastructure Victoria is also looking to optimise the wider Melbourne bus network through its recent research and recommendations for reform: Fast, frequent, fair: how buses can better connect Melbourne Deputy CEO Dr Allison Stewart says the focus of Infrastructure Victoria’s work is on better servicing suburban areas that are quickly growing in population.
“To increase frequency, we’re suggesting the government starts with Tarneit, Craigieburn, Epping, Cranbourne and
Frankston as places to straighten up bus routes,” Stewart told ABC
“We’ve worked with operators to get their input and to make sure that new growth areas get bus services quicker than they previously have.”
Infrastructure Victoria recommends the government plans and starts delivering a network of bus rapid transit corridors over Melbourne in the next five years. Stewart says the network is an “untapped opportunity for Melbourne” that would be simple to develop and would allow bus networks to integrate with SRL stations in the future.
Under the modelled bus rapid transit networks, 10 routes in suburbs around Melbourne could be transporting 83,000 people daily, returning $2.60 for every dollar invested in the new network. Starting with a Hoddle Street busway, which would provide a link from Doncaster down the Eastern Freeway to inner Melbourne CBD suburbs, Stewart wants to see more of these projects considered and constructed.
“We think buses could play a much more significant role than they currently do in Melbourne,” Stewart says.
“In areas like Doncaster, where bus services are more frequent and direct, our research shows people living in these areas are more likely to use the bus network.
“We want to see more frequent and direct bus services across Melbourne to deliver people faster and more efficiently to where they need to go.”
When it comes to the future of Victoria’s transport map, Currie agrees that buses need to be considered as a larger part of the network. Instead of remaining dedicated to the car and using public transport as a supplementary mode of transport, Currie wants Victoria to continue thinking long-term and consider the idea of using buses alongside rail to create faster and more efficient travel times for patrons.
“Buses must play a big role in the future of the state’s transport network – their latest technology includes the likes of bus rapid transit systems,” Currie says.
“Australia is famous for being a leader in bus rapid transit systems courtesy of projects in Adelaide, such as the O-Bahn, Parramatta and Brisbane.
“We now have the right bus technology for the future, so even if the SRL is a major rail project, buses must still be part of the end picture to connect Victorians.”
Tropic
is no stranger to running green tours. It’s now taking this to a whole new meaning with a major order of Yutong electric buses in Far North Queensland
In the tropical region of Far North Queensland, there’s plenty of green for the eye to see. In and around the Daintree Rainforest, thick, vibrant leaves radiate various shades of green. Along the Daintree River, in between the ancient crocodiles, islands of mangroves interweave.
Harking back to 2019, this green landscape has had an addition in the form of a Yutong electric E12 bus winding up and down the Macalister Range from Cairns to Kuranda. The bus, operated by Tropic Wings Cairns Charters & Tours, is making Australian charter and touring history. The operator is only getting started with its electric focus.
“We’ve been an advance eco-accredited company for around 25 years for our tours that visit World Heritage Listed areas,” Tropic Wings general manager Colin
Anderson told ABC
“We were the first tour and charter operator to introduce an electric bus to a tourist day-tour on the Cairns to Kuranda tour.”
After decades of operating, the introduction of the Yutong E12 was a seminal moment for Tropic Wings. In 1981, Charles and Pip Woodward owned a tourist attraction in Kuranda and couldn’t get anybody to the site on Sundays due to a lack of buses running. To fix the problem, they bought their own bus under the umbrella of Blue Wing Coach Tours.
A year later, due to the high demand, the Woodwards acquired Cairns Tropic Tours. In 1983, the two brands were combined to form Tropic Wings Cairns Tours & Charters. Starting with four buses, the operator now has nearly 40 in its fleet.
“We offer three different areas of service,
starting with our scheduled school services for both public and private schools,” Anderson says.
“We also have a large charter side, mainly in tourism, but also through school transfers and services for sporting, community and convention events. The third part is our touring business, which runs tours from Cairns to the likes of Port Douglas, Mosman, Cape Tribulation and Kuranda.”
Anderson says the introduction of the Yutong E12 electric model in 2019 has been seamless and successful. The low-floor bus was initially evaluated, with Tropic Wings able to collect enough data in and around the COVID-19 pandemic to determine that the electric model was working for the operator.
Once Tropic Wings worked out that electric vehicles could work in Far North Queensland and they had a receptive market in the region, it looked to find ways to further its sustainability targets. Anderson and his team soon brought in a goal of making 80 per cent of the Tropic Wings fleet electric by 2030, with the remaining 20 per cent to remain as diesel due to the range limitations and lack of charging infrastructure in wider Queensland.
To meet this ambitious goal, Tropic Wings decided to begin an electric bus project like no other.
“We came up with an idea to welcome another 12 electric buses into our fleet to run more zero-emissions services,” Anderson says.
“We know there are a number of risks involved and there’s a lot of infrastructure
network involving various partners. Once again, the connection of the operator to Vehicle Dealers International (VDI), the Australian distributor of Yutong buses and coaches, came in handy, with a suite of Yutong electric vehicles ordered.
Tropic Wings then also turned to the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) to help fund the new electric bus operations. The $10.2 million project will be split between ARENA and Tropic Wings, with the former contributing $4.75 million.
“The funding took the risk out of it for us and helped us ensure we had enough infrastructure in place through partnerships with the likes of Energy Australia,” Anderson says.
“We’ve seen the first of the 12 electric buses arrive, and this month we’ve begun installing the required electrical infrastructure.”
The Yutong models involved in the new electric bus order are the C12E and the D7E. Both electric models, the C12E comes in a coach configuration for Tropic Wings, providing all of the benefits of an electric bus but with bin space underneath for luggage. When passengers board, they’ll be greeted by 53 reclining leather
seats, curtains, lights and USB ports on every seat.
The D7E, the electrified version of the popular D7 model, will form the smaller and more nimble part of Tropic Wings’ new fleet, helping run day tours through Far North Queensland’s premier tourist attractions.
“From the passenger’s point of view, the electric bus’ interior is designed so seamlessly that they may not even notice any differences compared to a standard diesel bus unless they spot the signage indicating its electric nature,” Anderson says.
“When you’re behind the wheel, it’s an absolute pleasure to drive.”
From the VDI/Yutong side, National Sales and Marketing Manager Sara Clark says Cairns and Far North Queensland is a special place for the brand, serving as the birthplace of VDI’s partnership with Yutong in Australia.
“The much-anticipated C12E and D7E buses were delivered in the wake of Cyclone Jasper and the feedback has been extremely positive,” Clark told ABC
“The driver and passenger comfort and enhanced safety features, as well as energy consumption capabilities, allow Yutong electric buses to give back to the region where it all began in a sustainable way.”
These vehicles will be ably supported by a unique battery charging network. Tropic Wings
The driver and passenger comfort and enhanced safety features, as well as energy consumption capabilities, allow Yutong electric buses to give back to the region where it all began in a sustainable way.
will install a battery electric storage system (BESS) at its depot that will harvest solar during the day so that the Far North Queensland operator can continue to have enough power to keep the depot and buses running for two days in the case of a severe weather event.
Although it’s a seminal moment for both Yutong/VDI and Tropic Wings, it’s only the beginning. When the current project is done by the middle of this year, Anderson and the Tropic Wings team will continue updating the fleet with the latest sustainable bus technology from Yutong.
“We’re aiming for a continual rollout of electric buses in our fleet,” Anderson says.
“It’s so exciting to have these shiny new toys to play with. As part of this project, we’re also sharing our knowledge, in conjunction with the Electric Vehicle Council.
“We’ll be sharing our experiences and learnings with the wider bus community so that the industry is better for it.”
Below: The electric vehicles are making history in Far North Queensland
Opposite, Top: Tropic Wings has introduced a variety of D7E and C12E models to its fleet
After welcoming a Sydney bus operator into its consortium last year, Nexport is finding plenty of avenues to showcase its latest electric school coach to the local market
The rule of three suggests that plenty of good things come in trios. The three musketeers. Three piece suits. Three goals making a hattrick. In the Australian bus industry, GoZero Group Ltd, owners of the likes of Nexport, GoZero Consulting and North Sydney Bus Charters (NSBC), is already enjoying plenty of success off the back of this rule.
“The model we’re currently operating is relatively unique, particularly in the Australian market,” GoZero Group Managing Director Stephen Cartwright told ABC
“Under the GoZero Group umbrella, we have Nexport as the OEM, a zero-emissions infrastructure consultancy in GoZero Consulting and an operator in North Sydney Bus Charters.”
The niche transport group format first came to fruition in the middle of 2023 when GoZero Group acquired NSBC. It all fitted together when Nexport’s new electric coach then arrived in September, allowing NSBC to take the vehicle out to show schools in a bid to win new charter contracts.
As part of the tender process for these school runs, NSBC brought the new coach as the ideal show and tell, promising schools that it would shift from diesel buses to electric coaches throughout 2024.
As a result of this, NSBC won around 50 new school bus contracts that will lead to roughly 200 more runs, allowing the operator to expand rapidly. With a new depot now established in the south west Sydney suburb of Leppington to cater for this growth, NSBC is also having to quickly expand its fleet to cope with the influx of runs as the 2024 school year commences. To do so, it turned to Nexport.
“We will most likely end this year with NSBC having a bus fleet of more than 400 buses after having 220 when we acquired them six months ago,” Cartwright says.
“It’s all on the promise of converting from diesel to electric, with NSBC having an unfair advantage in the charter market because it’s part of the same consortium as GoZero Consulting and Nexport.
“Nexport can continue providing electric buses and supporting them, while GoZero Consulting deals with the challenges of depot electrification for NSBC and our other clients.”
This consortium isn’t just having a positive effect on NSBC – the model also allows the OEM side, courtesy of Nexport, to thrive courtesy of a consistent order bank. If Nexport ever has a quiet period where government bodies aren’t ordering new vehicles, the proliferation of school runs that NSBC is picking up means it continually requires new buses and
Nexport is kept busy producing vehicles.
The main model that Nexport will begin producing for the likes of NSBC is its new electric coach. The fully seatbelted zero-emissions vehicle comes with all the standard safety technology while also containing all of its batteries under the floor. It also features a fireproof floor to make the journey to and from school comfortable, sustainable and safe.
“It’s the only coach in the market with all of its batteries positioned under the floor,” Cartwright says.
“The centre of the gravity of this coach is also important – when transporting school children, it’s important to have that extra safety feature.
“Schools are continually coming under pressure from parents and the community to reduce their carbon footprint, so this electric coach is a great way of doing so.”
To keep this novel electric battery technology safe, Nexport’s fireproof flooring system protects passengers and drivers against the unlikely nature of a thermal runaway event. On top of 360-degree camera systems for drivers, seatbelt monitoring systems currently being integrated onto the model and new braking systems and suspensions, Nexport has ensured its latest electric coach is an improvement on previous
Nexport has plenty of electric coach orders to fulfil. Cartwright says the OEM is currently in the process of building 50 vehicles, varying between 12.5m and 10.5m versions of the electric coach model. With its low centre of gravity and high quality components, Cartwright says drivers have described the model as like driving a go kart.
“It’s a very comfortable coach to drive and provides a better ride for passengers,” he says.
“It’s quiet, emits no fumes while doing school runs in the suburbs and is a great look for schools to have in their fleets.”
This new Nexport coach, alongside the acquisition and growth of NSBC and the development of GoZero Consulting, has made for a rapid start for Cartwright at the helm of the GoZero Group. Since starting last year, he’s also recruited a new senior executive team to oversee customer service, aftersales, depot
manufacturing capabilities to step in and support that transition in all three states,” he says.
“These state governments are collectively looking to transition 22,000 buses over the next 10 years to zero-emissions, and all with a high level of local content. Looking at existing manufacturing capabilities, there’s not enough out there to produce 2,000 buses per year, so we see an opportunity to expand our capabilities to meet that demand from governments.”
This process received a major boost when NSBC secured a $100 million facility with the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) to finance its new zero-emissions Nexport bus fleet. Through this facility, Nexport will continue electrifying the NSBC fleet throughout 2024 while also building its capability to supply government operators, along with other charter companies across Australia, with zero-emissions vehicles.
is now intrigued to see how far Nexport can expand in 2024 with its new electric coach and low floor city bus models.
“We think this trio model makes absolute sense because we have our own customer to keep the OEM factory busy when there’s a quiet patch of orders from our other clients,” Cartwright says.
“It’s also an enabler for the charter company to win more work because they know they will be swiftly supported by their OEM partner, Nexport.
“Through Nexport, we are focused on increasing our supply of electric buses and depot support to some of the big government operators, but our niche is charter work and we’re keen to do more of that as well.
“After seeing the success of NSBC in Greater Sydney through this model, we are keen to replicate this for Nexport in other major metropolitan and regional centres across Australia.”
For years, E-T-A has supported bus and manufacturers in their transition to zero-emissions operations. This year is set to see it build on this and further expand its reach in Australia
As more bus manufacturers turn towards zeroemissions vehicles, challenges around supplying the right electrical systems and components have presented themselves to electrical system companies such as German parts supplier E-T-A.
With a growing brand in Australia, E-T-A is striving to provide the right products to bus and coach manufacturers while also developing solutions for the future of transport.
“E-T-A is heavily invested in designing new products for the transportation industry spanning back from our 75-year history as leaders in automotive circuit protection,” E-T-A Australia managing director Andrew Skaltsounis told ABC
With stricter exhaust gas regulations,
such as the possibility of transitioning from Euro VI to Euro VII, potentially coming into effect, Skaltsounis says E-T-A has placed more focus on meeting the high-performance requirements of electric gas exhausters within systems. On top of this, the many switching cycles of these systems have to adhere to evolving global standards.
Over the past 10 years, Skaltsounis says E-T-A has provided the broader automotive industry with solutions that meet these demands. Offering continuous currents between one and 200 amps, E-T-A’s range of electronic switching and protection solutions also provide low heat and noise developments. With these benefits, Skaltsounis says E-T-A’s high quality products and various benefits justify the high production cost of the material.
While E-T-A supplies systems across the wider electrical componentry market, its attention in the past five years, particularly in the Australasian region, has turned towards the bus and coach industry. This changed focus has resulted in a new electronic solid-state component that Skaltsounis says protects and controls electrical systems onboard the new wave of heavy vehicles.
The E-T-A Smart Control System (SCS) 1000 power distribution units are already providing the benefits of electronic switching, including low control currents, low heat and noise development, high switching cycles and high cycle frequency. Skaltsounis says the increasing focus on electronic switching has resulted in a new wave of power solutions coming to market.
“For some time, a series of
developments and new requirements have pushed the use of electronic switching, protecting and power distribution solutions,” Skaltsounis says.
Switching directions to the bus and coach market, particularly when it comes to electric models, hasn’t changed E-T-A’s overall goal of protecting lives through its actions and products. Skaltsounis says E-T-A has achieved this goal by using the resources it’s been given in a responsible manner.
“We want to preserve the same opportunities that we have for future generations,” he says.
“Our range of products are designed to save space, weight and complexity with wiring while creating savings that help to reduce emissions.”
Its most popular product offering among bus and coach operators has been its set of power distribution systems. The SCS1000 solution has been at the forefront of this boom.
The system provides users with different types of features ranging from its flexible mounting and optimised wiring to its adaptability. Skaltsounis says that its space-saving benefits also
help operators when they decide to modernise their respective fleets.
E-T-A has recently built on this system with its SCS3000. Unlike its predecessor, the SCS3000 has combined power distribution and control functions into a single module. Its compact systems and its integrated logic also shares traits with the SCS1000.
In the broader heavy vehicle industry, its solid-state multifunction, high power and high voltage relays have become a staple. Skaltsounis says that, much like its smart control systems, E-T-A’s solutions reduce wiring complexity with its multifunctional ability.
“Additionally, circuits can be monitored, giving the operator feedback on statuses while
providing data on run times and wear and tear for preventative maintenance,” Skaltsounis says.
This year is set to see E-T-A continue expanding its reach in Australia through its smart control system portfolio. The company is ready to increase its versatile product range along with its high voltage components.
As it prepares to do so, Skaltsounis says E-T-A’s compact, configurable and programmable systems are ready to service not just Australia, but the global bus and coach industry too.
“Electronic solutions are gaining ground. They are no longer nice-to-have, but stateof-the-art or even must-have,” Skaltsounis says.
“As a supplier of electronic and electro-mechanical solutions with 75 years of expertise in the area of overcurrent protection, E-T-A is a technological innovator who always finds the right solutions, both now and into the future.”
Top: E-T-A’s power distribution units are optimising bus and coach operations
Opposite, bottom: The SCS3000 combines power distribution and control functions into a single module
Our range of products are designed to save space, weight and complexity with wiring while creating savings that help to reduce emissions.
Scania broke new ground in late 2023 when it delivered its first electric city bus in Australia. Now, more exciting bus and coach technology is on the way in the near future
There have been plenty of innovations for Scania in Australia since it first provided engines through a distributor to local coach operators in the late ‘60s. Following the first importation of a Scania bus chassis into Australia in 1978, the global heavy vehicle manufacturer’s capabilities has evolved through to Euro 5 and 6 models as well as its popular hybrid range.
In late 2023, Scania made the leap and delivered its first 100 per cent battery electric bus in the nation. Delivered to South Australia’s Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) to be run in Adelaide, the buses signify a milestone moment for Scania in Australia’s bus industry.
“We are delighted to place this bus into the hands of our DIT operator partners,” Scania Australia managing director Manfred Streit says.
“This delivery marks a key milestone for Scania buses and coaches in Australia. It is a tangible first step on the road to a
transformational public transport future, and one that Scania is very much pushing for wider adoption.
“Globally Scania has been working on transitioning to a zero tailpipe bus solution for many years and we have several cities in Europe already well advanced in their integration of Scania’s 100 per cent battery power buses into their fleets.”
The bus was delivered following an extensive testing period that included running routes around Adelaide while loaded with several tonnes of ballast to simulate passengers. After coping with the terrain, congestion and distances required, the imported bus from Scania’s Sweden factory was officially unveiled as part of the state’s transport network.
The battery electric bus, assembled and bodied by BusTech Group in Adelaide, is a 12.5m model that seats 41 passengers plus a driver, with room also available for nine standees. As part of the Scania New Bus Generation featured on the electric model, a new electro-pneumatic park brake is joined by built-in safety features that
signify a technological update.
This massive moment in Scania’s Australian bus history wasn’t admired for long within the brand’s four walls, as it quickly began working on another next generation vehicle. The K-series zero-emissions bus programme has just been announced for the Australian market, with Scania working to import the fully electric low entry bus chassis within the next year.
“We’re eagerly anticipating the arrival of the first of our third generation K-series Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) chassis,” Scania Bus and Power Solutions Australia director of sales Julian Gurney told ABC
“Offering a revised e-machine, Scania’s modular designed system with two-speed gearbox and a R 660 drive axle, the New Bus Generation K-series chassis features a high degree of chassis component sharing.”
The third generation K-series battery electric chassis, when it arrives in Australia, will feature four new generation battery packs, with three of these batteries strategically placed on the roof while one sits in the engine bay to optimise weight distribution and passenger capacity. This configuration means the expected range is around 400km depending on the specification and usage profile.
It’ll also come with a front rigid axle that’s identical to Scania’s diesel chassis and an engine subframe that reduces noise and vibrations through the vehicle, giving passengers a smoother and quieter experience.
When it comes to the battery packs, they’ll be assembled into modules at a new Scania battery factory that has just finished construction next door to Scania’s main vehicle assembly plant in Sweden. The majority of battery cells will be sourced from Northvolt’s battery cell factory in northern Sweden.
“Northvolt shares our commitment to sustainable production, ethical sourcing, recycling and the use of renewable energy
and this will support Scania in having a responsible supply chain,” Gurney says.
“The new battery facility, opened in September 2023, enables us to adhere to our modular system and simultaneously oversee our sustainability production targets, aligning with our science-based objectives.”
The batteries use Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC), which provides high energy density per packing volume. Each battery pack weighs around 600kg and has an energy capacity of 104kWh. With a new and improved in-house battery management system partnering it, Gurney expects the battery system to optimise power and energy storage.
“Our new third generation K-series heavy-duty BEV chassis is perfect for all weather roads, particularly in urban areas and on intercity routes, with the R 660 rear axle delivering good operating economy and a long service life,” Gurney says.
“The new chassis boasts improved body builder adaptation flexibility, providing options to customise the chassis to specific requirements, while intelligent drivetrain component positioning simplifies maintenance, reducing costs and improving uptime.”
For drivers, the Scania Smart Dash will include a new driver display in the third generation K-series electric chassis that replaces the traditional analogue/ digital instrument cluster. The new interface is configured for electric buses and diesel powertrains, with visual and sound indicators being added for the first time to create a driver environment that is less stressful and easier on the eyes
and ears.
Gurney hopes the new digitalised work environment will help operators attract new drivers and motivate existing drivers to stay longer with the company.
“Scania stands ready to assist its customers transition to zero-emissions at a pace that suits them and with due regard for the total operating economy of their fleets,” Gurney says.
“In addition, we can provide repair and maintenance contracts through the life of these zero-emissions vehicles as well as a range of charging solutions, continuing Scania’s tradition as a one-stop-shop for our customers.”
Once delivered, the new Scania electric chassis will come complete with a full range of Advanced Driver Assistance functions, including Advanced Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control and many more.
Above:
The new K-series chassis features a new driver display
Right: Scania’s electric technology is improving in Australia
Below:
The chassisis set to be delivered to Australia throughout 2024
Opposite, Top: Scania is continuing to bring electric bus technology to Australia
It all signals a new era for a
mainstay of Australia’s bus and coach market, as Scania looks to forge its own path on the way to zero-emissions transport. Following the exciting electric bus launch in Adelaide and the announcement of its K-series battery electric chassis coming soon to Australia, Gurney is looking forward to the brand’s decarbonisation progress in 2024 and beyond.
“We’ve delivered our first zero-emissions city bus to the Department for Infrastructure and Transport in South Australia late in 2023, with nine further chassis now scheduled to be built to that first specification during 2024,” Gurney says.
“We now expect to receive our first supply of the third generation K-series BEV chassis by mid-year, which will further advance our capacity to meet the needs of bus operators around Australia who are keen to shift towards a zero-tailpipe transport system.”
A massive year for the BYD brand in 2023 has been rewarded with recordbreaking global new energy vehicle sales. Now, a new partnership will allow BYD to spread its environmental ethos on the big stage in 2024
IMAGES BYDThere were many factors behind 2023 being a milestone year for global electric vehicle technology company BYD. It continued to expand in its variety of industries, from new energy vehicles such as zero-emissions buses, coaches and cars, to rail transit, renewable energy and electronics.
In a local sphere, it also successfully turned its focus to Australasia, establishing a new factory-backed Commercial Vehicles Division in both Australia and New Zealand to target the market.
Yet its greatest achievement wasn’t realised until the year came to an end. In January, BYD was crowned the global leader in new energy vehicle sales after amassing a record-breaking three million annual sales.
“With more than 29 years of accelerated growth, BYD is the global leader in new energy vehicles,” BYD Australia Commercial Vehicles Director Jon Tozer told ABC
“BYD concluded 2023 by becoming the global leader in new energy vehicle sales, which is incredible considering we have
expanded to more than 400 cities located in 70 countries and across six continents.”
It’s the second year running that BYD has topped the charts after also securing the top spot on the global new energy vehicle (NEV) sales leaderboard in 2022.
Yet 2023 was different for BYD, as it was also listed among the global top 10 companies for car sales for the first time.
In the Chinese market, BYD continued to remain a powerhouse, once again securing its spot as the best-selling car brand and manufacturer in the nation.
The new energy vehicle milestone was
secured in December, where 341,043 units, a 45 per cent increase for the brand, pushed the total vehicle sales for the year over to 3,024,417. In a 61.9 per cent increase from 2022, BYD’s commitment to only produce new energy vehicles paid off on the global stage.
A key part of this is in BYD’s globalisation strategy. In 2023, BYD’s international market presence increased as exports grew by 334.2 per cent to 242,765 units. Originally founded in 1995 as a rechargeable battery manufacturer for the likes of Nokia, Apple, Dell, Toshiba,
Microsoft, Samsung, Motorola and more, Tozer says it’s a rapid rise for the growing brand.
“BYD remains committed to leveraging technological innovations for a better life,” Tozer says.
“We’re also going to continue offering the Australian market with new energy vehicles that are at the forefront of safety, technology and innovation.”
The annual results come at the right time for BYD. It has just recently completed its brand matrix, including the Dynasty series, Ocean series, DENZA, FANGCHENGBAO and YANGWANG vehicle models.
Tozer says it’s this diversity of new energy vehicles that is helping BYD to continue improving its sales numbers each year.
Some of these new models have been BYD’s biggest sellers, with the Dynasty and Ocean series collectively recording 2,877,353 sales for the year. On top of this, the YANGWANG and FANGCHENGBAO both received positive market responses following its release in China in 2023.
With a vision of cooling the Earth by one degree Celsius, BYD isn’t intent on slowing down its new energy vehicle production. In 2024, BYD will continue spreading its sustainability message after becoming the official e-mobility partner of UEFA Euro 2024, the football championship tournament for European countries.
It’s the first time BYD will be an e-mobility partner with UEFA in its history and provides a grand opportunity to showcase its zero-emissions vehicles to the world.
“BYD, as the global new energy vehicles leader, is proud to be the official partner and e-mobility partner of UEFA 2024,” Tozer says.
“It’s a ground-breaking partnership with UEFA that marks the first ever sponsorship deal with a new energy vehicle manufacturer in the Championship’s history.”
The European tournament will allow BYD to help UEFA organise
our ethos of providing world-leading new energy vehicles and advanced technologies to accelerate the transition to e-mobility.”
a greener and more sustainable tournament, bringing together a major global sporting event with its commitment to environmental responsibility.
With UEFA Euro 2024 taking place across 10 German stadiums from June 14 to July 14 this year, BYD will provide a diverse range of new energy vehicles to various stakeholders throughout the month-long tournament.
At selected venues, BYD will showcase its latest electric models and cutting-edge new energy technologies while also establishing its presence at official fan zones.
BYD Europe Managing Director Michael Shu says the partnership gives BYD the chance to highlight its latest advancements in electric vehicles to a far-reaching audience.
“Significantly, the partnership underlines BYD’s brand commitment to reducing carbon emissions for a greener future, for which UEFA Euro 2024 will provide an influential voice,” Shu says.
For Tozer and the BYD Australian team, this global news forms the start of what he hopes will
Above: BYD is continuing to focus on building its brand in Australia
Above, Right: BYD achieved history with its new energy vehicle sales in 2023
Opposite: The global brand is looking to bring its electric expertise to more Australian operators in 2024
be another fruitful and exciting year for BYD. Locally, BYD will also be present for its first industry expo event since establishing its Australian Commercial Vehicles Division when the Bus Industry Confederation’s (BIC) National Bus & Coach Show kicks off on September 17 in Brisbane.
Alongside these crucial events, Tozer is looking to spread BYD’s global success to the Australasian market.
“The partnership between BYD and UEFA aligns with our ethos of providing world-leading new energy vehicles and advanced technologies to accelerate the transition to e-mobility,” Tozer says.
“The BYD Australian team is excited about what 2024 has in store for our brand.”
In NSW, Express Coach Builders is hoping that procurement processes take effect before the operator is faced with shutting up shop. The Australian bus industry is now joining forces to address the national procurement challenge
The Christmas and New Year holiday period is meant to be a time full of relaxing and excitement. Family gettogethers and excessive sunshine usually dominates the period and allows the hardest of workers in the bus and coach industry to unwind and recharge for another demanding year ahead.
For New South Wales-based manufacturer Express Coach Builders, its summer was spent worrying about whether it would stay open for long in the New Year.
“It’s terribly sad to put your heart and soul into something you love for it to be potentially taken away,” Express Coach Builders director Mark Forster says.
“I had to lay off staff just before Christmas and no employer wants to do that. I don’t want to start this year with more.”
After manufacturing buses and coaches for the past 28 years, Express Coach Builders’ future has been left in the hands of the NSW government. The state government, for the past couple of years, has been working on the Bus Procurement Panel 4, which is a comprehensive list from Transport for NSW (TfNSW) for the provision of complete buses and related services to TfNSW and the state’s bus operators.
It’s a vital list for manufacturers in the state to be part of as they look to receive more orders in the coming years for new buses and coaches. After tenders closed in early April last year, vehicle brands waited for the panel to be released later in the year. It didn’t happen.
Almost a year since tenders closed, the likes of Express Coach Builders have been left in the lurch, waiting
in need of replacement across regional NSW,” NSW Nationals shadow regional roads and transport minister Sam Farraway says.
Farraway says the inaction could force Express Coach Builders to close, leading to almost 50 jobs being taken away. With the manufacturer providing opportunities to more than 100 apprentices and trainees over its history and being the second largest private employer in Macksville, Farraway, alongside Nationals member for Oxley Michael Kemp, says the current scenario has been “a slap in the face”.
“If they shut down and take away our jobs, it’ll absolutely kill our region,” Kemp says.
“I met NSW transport minister Jo Haylen last year and she personally assured me that Express and other manufacturers would have the Panel
Kemp also extended an invitation to minister Haylen and NSW premier Chris Minns to meet Express Coach Builders in Macksville and give the business confirmation that new orders are in the pipeline.
A day later, Haylen responded, with a spokesperson confirming the Panel 4 release isn’t delayed, as Panel 3 is due to expire on March 19.
“The process to finalise its replacement in Panel 4 will be completed by March 1,” the spokesperson told ABC
“Bus operators can and have continued to place orders for new buses under Procurement Panel 3 – there has been no direction to operators to delay new bus orders until Procurement Panel 4 is established.
“Express Coach Builders has undertaken work for primary manufacturers on orders taken
Opposite:
engaged with local members and the department to ensure that Express Coach Builders, like other local manufacturers, is given an opportunity to be selected to undertake subcontracting work for new buses as part of TfNSW bus panels.
Under the NSW procurement process, which consists of pre-approved prime manufacturers, subcontractors like Express are used to help build new buses. The minister’s spokesperson says TfNSW can’t directly engage with these subcontractors and intervene in the procurement process for “reasons of fairness”.
“We have met with the local member and made sure that appropriate TfNSW senior officials have engaged with Express Coach Builders when they have asked for information,” the spokesperson says.
“The department advised that it had targeted to issue Panel 4 deeds – the first step to move to a new bus panel – to
target, but the new bus panel will still be in place by March 1.”
Following this, Express and the industry saw immediate action when TfNSW sent out Panel 4 deeds to manufacturers.
Despite this, the idea that bus procurement is still ongoing despite some processes of Panel 4 being delayed has raised opposition from the likes of the Bus Industry Confederation (BIC). The Australian bus and coach association brought the procurement issue to the attention of federal, state and territory governments in May last year when it released its Suppliers in Crisis campaign.
The campaign, looking to raise awareness for bus and coach manufacturers and suppliers and their ongoing issues, came about following last year’s BIC National Summit, with advocacy efforts including discussions with the NSW Bus Industry Taskforce, senior officials of Transport for NSW and the NSW minister’s
“Consultation undertaken by BIC last year revealed the lack of procurement in NSW in the past 12 months or so while the NSW government grapples with the implications of the transition to zero-emissions buses and its financial issues,” Chivers told ABC
“We’re aware of several businesses who have made the decision to no longer supply to the bus industry and several more who are extremely vulnerable financially.”
Chivers says there’s a deep sense of frustration in the industry that state governments aren’t taking the procurement issue seriously. While BIC is aware that a handful of orders were made last year, with the bulk going to specific operators and body builders, it’s also equally aware of many operators who had orders approved to replace ageing buses and then revoked prior to the orders being finalised.
While Express Coach Builders has received some respite with the release of the Panel 4 deeds, BIC is wanting to make sure there’s no such procurement issues in the future.
“The boom bust style of procurement isn’t sustainable because it undermines the industry’s ability to attract and retain staff and upskill workers to deal with zero-emissions buses,” Chivers says.
“It undermines companies’ abilities to plan for the future and, ultimately, it’ll undermine the ability of some companies to survive.”
The February winner of ABC’s Best Bus, brought to you by VDI Australia, takes us to the Ballarat suburb of Wendouree
It may be completely different to the scenery seen in the winner of Best Bus January, but that doesn’t make the February Best Bus photo winner any less impressive.
While the January photo, courtesy of Paul Williams, took us to the stunning peaks of New Zealand’s Aoraki Mt Cook, the February winner from Greg Pye at Bentleigh Coaches brings Best Bus back to lower land in the outskirts of Ballarat.
Before we get into Pye’s winning photo, there are other worthy entrants deserving of recognition for Best Bus February, sponsored by VDI Australia.
Previous winner Damian Shiambi sent through another wonderful photo of two Ventura buses climbing
hills near the ocean and deserves an honourable mention for the eye-catching shot. Brett Hewitt’s consistent feed of Firefly photos paid dividends in February as he was a worthy finalist for his latest photo, while Sarah Hansen’s collection of Langley’s double-deckers made for an entertaining submission.
While these three photos were all brilliant, they couldn’t top Greg Pye from Bentleigh Coaches’ winning photo of a shiny Volvo/Coach Concepts coach out the front of Lake Wendouree.
The Volvo B11R coach, bodied by Coach Concepts, was purchased brand new from CMV Truck & Bus by Anguscorp, trading as Bentleigh Coaches, in February 2021. With 57 fixed coach seats and a Volvo I-Shift
included, the coach is a consistent performer in the Bentleigh Coaches fleet.
“This photo was taken just outside ‘Pipers by the Lake’ on Wendouree Parade in Wendouree,” Pye told ABC.
Following his win, Pye and the Bentleigh Coaches team have received a free 12-month subscription to ABC Magazine, while the winning photo is live as ABC ’s Facebook page cover photo for all of February.
If you want to be like Pye and have your best photo shown off courtesy of Best Bus, brought to you by VDI Australia, then don’t forget to send through your photos for March and the rest of 2024 via our website or by keeping an eye on our Facebook page for more details.
plant & equipment all included in the sale. May be suited to a larger operator in the bus & coach indust ry as an acquisition.
SYDNEY NSW, REGION - Core services are day charter & excursions for schools, train replacement and emergency train replacement bus & coach services. Simple business operation with high turnover and pro t. Fleet, plant & equipment included in the sale including 11 x buses & coaches. Limited competition with high demand for services provided.
SOUTH COAST NSW - Lifestyle location and growth area. 13 x buses & coaches included in the sale. e business revenue is derived by o ering extend ed group touring, general charter work and a lucrative on demand Shuttle Service contracted by TfNSW. e on-demand service provides transport to over 50 communities in total to both coastal and Canberra regions.
SCHOOL BUS, REGIONAL NSW - Simple business operation, 3 x TfNSW bus runs/services with high monthly payment. e business is located on the Hume Highway in a strong farming and business orientated community between Two large inland regional cities, potential to expand into the charter market.
REGIONAL SE QLD SCHOOL BUS - 4 x QLD Trans Link contracted School Services - Bus runs & school buses on o er. Contracts recently renewed for a 7 year period. Excellent lifestyle regional location, 1hr 45 minutes from Sunshine Coast & 2hrs from Brisbane & Toowoomba. Business on o er for rst time in 30 years.
Be sure not to miss out on an opportunity to attend these fantastic in-person events
Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
Image: Daniel Gangur/Shutterstock
MARCH
BusNSW
March 4-8
Northern NSW Regional Seminars
BusVic
March 13-14
Regional Conferences
BusNSW
March 18-21
Southern NSW Regional Seminars
BusVic
March 25-27
Regional Conferences
APRIL
QBIC
April 5-6
Annual Conference and Gala Dinner
MAY
BusNSW
May 13
Delegates Forum
Busworld
May 15-17
BusWorld South East Asia –Jakarta
QBIC
June 8
Regional Member Forum Gympie
BusNSW
June 20-27
Associate Member Seminars and Committee/ Branch Meetings
JULY
BusWA
July 11-12
APTIA Breakfast, Bus Show and AGM
QBIC
July 20
Regional Member Forum Chinchilla
BusVic
July 27
80th anniversary dinner – Sovereign Room, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
AUGUST
BusWA
August 5
Regional Trips begin
BusWorld South East Asia –J akarta, coming in May.
Future Leaders Luncheon
BusNSW
August 30
NextGen Leaders Forum
SEPTEMBER
BusWA
September 6
Regional Trips end
BIC
September 17-18
National Bus and Coach Show – Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre
OCTOBER
BCA
October 1-3
New Zealand Conference, Due Drop Events Centre, Auckland
BusNSW
October 9-10
2024 Member Conference
QBIC
October 18-19
Cairns Regional Member Forum
Technical Committee Meetings and AGM
Regional Member Forum
Associate Members Seminar and Partner’s
National Conference, Hobart
Delegates Forum and Christmas Function
Themomentumbuiltinunitsdeliveredattheendof2023hascontinued into2024asJanuary’sbusandcoachdeliveriesstartataremarkablehigh
The summer period has done little to perturb the Australian bus and coach market, as the January deliveries have gotten the industry off to an ideal start in 2024.
The first month of 2024 reaped 137 deliveries, surpassing the 126 deliveries recorded in December, 2023.
The top two from 2023 got off to hot starts in January, as Volvo (41) and Yutong (36) broke away from the pack early as the fast starters. Coming in third was King Long, who had an impressive month with 17 deliveries, while Scania slipped to fourth with 13 units delivered. An impressive month from I-Bus saw it claim fifth with 11 deliveries, staying one ahead of BCI (10). The chassis market then ended with the final four brands, with Mercedes-Benz and MAN both recording three deliveries apiece while BLK (two) and Challenger (one) wrapping up the January chassis deliveries.
There was a new leader to start body builder deliveries for 2024 as the competition closed for the first time in months. Yutong’s 36 deliveries for the month saw it take top spot in January, with perennial leader Volgren squeezing into second with 21 units delivered, just ahead of the quickly advancing Irizar with 20 deliveries. Not far behind was King Long with 17, staying ahead of the likes of I-Bus (11) and BCI (10). From there, the competition remained even, with Scania Higer (five) keeping narrowly ahead of Custom Denning and Express Coaches with three deliveries apiece. The final 11 deliveries were split between seven brands in a tightly contested finish. An industry trend emerged in January, with the seating market not immune to the closure competition seen in other areas. Yutong once again sat atop with 36 deliveries, while the ongoing seating leader, McConnell, held off the competitive Sege (31 deliveries) by a solitary delivery with 32 units registered for the month. ISRI had an impressive start to 2024 with 17 deliveries, while APM also impressed with 11. StyleRide
kept its consistency with eight deliveries, with Fainsa and Precision Bus wrapping up the seating sector with a sole delivery apiece.
Other than Cling-Yutong’s remarkable 36 deliveries, the airconditioning market remained steady in January. Thermo King kept itself near pole position with 30 deliveries, with Hispacold nestling directly behind it with 21 units delivered. King Long’s 17 deliveries kept it in the frame, with Songz (10) staying narrowly ahead of Coachair (nine). Behind them, MCC led the next pack with six deliveries, with Konvekta (five), Valeo (two) and Spheros (one) wrapping up the air-conditioning market.
There were a couple of high scorers in the state-based content as Victoria and Queensland dominated the deliveries. Victoria continued its good form from the end of 2023 to take top spot in January with 44 deliveries, staying three ahead of second-placed Queensland. NSW came in third with 24 deliveries, with Western Australia part of the leading pack with 17 units registered. From there, South Australia was next best with five deliveries, with the Northern Territory starting 2024 strongly with four deliveries and Tasmania recording the two deliveries.
Turn overleaf for comprehensive bus and coach delivery information for January. Please note all data is as supplied from manufacturers, at their discretion.
There were a couple of high scorers in the state-based content as Victoria and Queensland dominated the deliveries.
AnindustrytrendemergedinJanuary,with theseatingmarketnotimmunetotheclosure competitionseeninotherareas.Yutong onceagainsatatopwith36deliveries,while theongoingseatingleader,McConnell,held offthecompetitiveSege(31deliveries)bya solitarydeliverywith32unitsregisteredforthe month.ISRIhadanimpressivestartto2024 with17deliveries,whileAPMalsoimpressed with11.StyleRidekeptitsconsistencywith eightdeliveries,withFainsaandPrecisionBus wrappinguptheseatingsectorwithasole deliveryapiece.
There was a new leader to start body builder deliveries for 2024 as the competition closed for the first time in months. Yutong’s 36 deliveries for the month saw it take top spot in January, with perennial leader Volgren squeezing into second with 21 units delivered, just ahead of the quickly advancing Irizar with 20 deliveries. Not far behind was King Long with 17, staying ahead of the likes of I-Bus (11) and BCI (10). From there, the competition remained even, with Scania Higer (five) keeping narrowly ahead of Custom Denning and Express Coaches with three deliveries apiece. The final 11 deliveries were split between seven brands in a tightly contested finish.
Other than Cling-Yutong’s remarkable 36 deliveries, the air-conditioning market remained steady in January. Thermo King kept itself near pole position with 30 deliveries, with Hispacold nestling directly behind it with 21 units delivered. King Long’s 17 deliveries kept it in the frame, with Songz (10) staying narrowly ahead of Coachair (nine). Behind them, MCC led the next pack with six deliveries, with Konvekta (five), Valeo (two) and Spheros (one) wrapping up the air-conditioning market.
The top two from 2023 got off to hot starts in January, as Volvo (41) and Yutong (36) broke away from the pack early as the fast starters. Coming in third was King Long, who had an impressive month with 17 deliveries, while Scania slipped to fourth with 13 units delivered. An impressive month from I-Bus saw it claim fifth with 11 deliveries, staying one ahead of BCI (10). The chassis market then ended with the final four brands, with Mercedes-Benz and MAN both recording three deliveries apiece while BLK (two) and Challenger (one) wrapping up the January chassis deliveries.
HP* Rear / Front Emissions standard
BCI KastoriaBusLinesVIC2BCICruiser10BCI285REuro6 SkylightBusLinesVIC2BCICruiser10BCI285REuro6
WAMcClayHoldingsWA1BCICruiser10BCI285REuro6 WCBCWA5BCIClassmaster57BCI315REuro6
BLK N/AQLD1President2BLK360REuro5
N/ANSW1President2BLK360REuro5
CHALLENGER YorkePeninsulaCoachesSA1ChallengerV12Challenger300REuro6
I-BUS N/ANT4IsuzuI-BusAustralasia190FEuro5
N/AVIC2IsuzuI-BusAustralasia190FEuro5
N/ANSW1IsuzuI-BusAustralasia190FEuro5
N/AQLD1IsuzuI-BusAustralasia190FEuro5
N/AVIC1IsuzuI-BusAustralasia190FEuro5
N/AQLD1IsuzuI-BusAustralasia185FEuro5
N/AQLD1IsuzuI-BusAustralasia190FEuro5
KING LONG N/ATAS1KingLongKingLong285REuro5
N/AVIC1KingLongKingLong360REuro5
N/AVIC1KingLongKingLong285REuro5
N/AQLD1KingLongKingLong285REuro5 N/AQLD5KingLongKingLong360REuro5
N/ANSW1KingLongKingLong285REuro5
N/AVIC1KingLongKingLong360REuro5
N/AQLD1KingLongKingLong285REuro5
N/ANSW1KingLongKingLong285REuro5
N/ANSW1KingLongKingLong360REuro5
N/ANSW1KingLongKingLong184REuro5
N/AQLD1KingLongKingLong360REuro5
N/AQLD1KingLongKingLong285REuro5
MAN SurfsideBuslinesQLD1MANLE.19.330.RC2BusTechGroup330REuro6
FallonsCobramVIC1MANIC.19.320.RR8CoachDesign320REuro5
FallonsBusServiceVIC1MANIC.19.290.RR8CoachConcepts290REuro5
MERCEDES BENZ N/AVIC1Mercedes-BenzOC500LEE6Volgren300REuro6
N/AVIC1Mercedes-BenzO500RSCoachDesign360REuro5 N/AVIC1Mercedes-BenzO500RSIrizar360REuro5
SCANIA BawdenHaulageVIC1ScaniaK370CB4x2NBScaniaHiger370REuro6 BNGCoachesQLD1ScaniaK310IB4x2NBCoachConcepts310REuro5 DPTI-Dept.ofPublicTransportInfrastructureSA1ScaniaK360UA6x2/2LBBusTechGroup360REuro6 FortescueMetalsGroupVIC1ScaniaK310IB4x2NBIrizar310REuro5 FortescueMetalsGroupWA1ScaniaK310IB4x2NBIrizar310REuro5 HanleysPassengerServiceVIC1ScaniaK370CB4x2NBScaniaHiger370REuro6 McHarrysBusLinesVIC1ScaniaK320IB4x2NBVolgren320REuro6 StMarysSecondaryCollegeVIC1ScaniaK370CB4x2NBScaniaHiger370REuro6 WarragulBusLinesVIC3ScaniaK320CB4x2LBCustomDenning320REuro6 WarragulBusLinesVIC2ScaniaK360CB4x2NBScaniaHiger360REuro6
VOLVO StAidan'sAnglicanGirls'SchoolQLD1VolvoB8RIrizar330REuro5
StMargaret'sAnglicanGirlsSchoolQLD1VolvoB8RIrizar330REuro5 JPTTourGroupQLD1VolvoB8RMarcopolo320REuro6
FunOverFiftyQLD1VolvoB11RIrizar450REuro5
KangarooBusLinesQLD1VolvoB11RIrizar450REuro5
KoalaKoachesQLD2VolvoB8RIrizar350REuro6
TransNorthBus&CoachQLD1VolvoB8RIrizar330REuro5
SouthernCrossTransitQLD2VolvoB8RIrizar330REuro5
OzBetterAirportShuttleNSW1VolvoB8RIrizar350REuro6
RoverMotorsNSW1VolvoB11RIrizar460REuro6
BuslinesGroupNSW2VolvoB8RExpressCoaches320REuro6 ShepherdsonTransportWA1VolvoB8ROmnibus330REuro5 OrgansCoachesVIC1VolvoB8RIrizar330REuro5
OrgansCoachesVIC1VolvoB8RIrizar350REuro6
WillungaCharterSA2VolvoB8RVolgren330REuro5
AlstonCoachesVIC1VolvoB11RIrizar460REuro6
WesternportRoadlinesVIC1VolvoB8RVolgren330REuro5
ChristiansBusCoVIC1VolvoB8RIrizar350REuro6 BroadmeadowsVIC3VolvoB8RLEVolgren330REuro5 StavlinkTransitVIC2VolvoB8RIrizar330REuro5
KangaCoachesSA1VolvoB8RVolgren330REuro5
CDCHunterValleyBusesNSW3VolvoB8RLEVolgren320REuro6 KeolisDownerHunterNSW1VolvoB8RLEExpressCoaches320REuro6
PublicTransportAuthorityWAWA8VolvoB8RLEVolgren320REuro6
PublicTransportAuthorityWAWA1VolvoB8RLEAVolgren350REuro6
YUTONG N/AQLD2YutongC12Yutong340REuro6 N/AQLD3YutongD7EYutong190N/AZero N/AVIC4YutongC12Yutong340REuro6 N/ANSW1YutongC12EYutong350N/AZero N/AQLD1YutongC12EYutong350N/AZero N/ANSW6YutongD12Yutong360REuro5 N/ANSW3YutongD7Yutong190FEuro6 N/AQLD3YutongD7Yutong190FEuro6 N/AVIC3YutongD7Yutong190FEuro6 N/AWA3YutongD7Yutong190FEuro6 N/AQLD1YutongD9Yutong250REuro5 N/ATAS1YutongD9Yutong250REuro5 N/AVIC1YutongD9Yutong250REuro5 N/AWA2YutongD12Yutong360REuro5 N/AWA1YutongD9Yutong250REuro5 N/AVIC1YutongD7EYutong190N/AZero
AZF210.6ThermoKing41–––––X–SegeBCIYY AZF210.6ThermoKing43–––––X–SegeBCIYY AZF210.6MCC43–––––X–SegeBCIYN AZF212.3MCC57–––––X–SegeBCIYN AAllison213.2Valeo61–––X–––SegeBLKYY AAllison212.5Valeo–53––X–––SegeBLKYN/A AAllison210.5ThermoKing–45––––X–FainsaChallengerYN/A ASIsuzu28.3Songz32–––X–––APMSASDoorsYN ASIsuzu28.3Songz32––––––XAPMSASDoorsYN ASIsuzu28.3Songz32–––––X–APMSASDoorsYN ASIsuzu28.3Songz32–––––X–APMSASDoorsYN ASIsuzu28.3Coachair28–––––X–APMSASDoorsYY ASIsuzu27.5Songz20–––X–––APMSASDoorsYN ASIsuzu28.3Songz32–––––X–APMSASDoorsYN AZF210KingLong46–––––X–ISRIN/AYN AZF212KingLong58–––––X–ISRIN/AYN AZF210KingLong46–––––X–ISRIN/AYN AZF210KingLong46–––––X–ISRIN/AYN AZF212KingLong58–––––X–ISRIN/AYN AZF210KingLong46–––X–––ISRIN/AYN AZF212KingLong46–––––X–ISRIN/AYN AZF210KingLong46–––––X–ISRIN/AYN AZF210KingLong46–––––X–ISRIN/AYN AZF212KingLong–54––X–––ISRIN/AYN AZF29KingLong–36––X–––ISRIN/AYN AZF212KingLong58–––––X–ISRIN/AYN AZF210KingLong46–––X–––ISRIN/AYN AZF212.5ThermoKing––47––X––StyleRideN/ANN AZF212.3Coachair57–––––X–SegeN/AYN AZF212.3Coachair57–––––X–McConnellN/AYN AZF212.5ThermoKing––47––X––McConnellN/ANY AZF212.5ThermoKing57–––––X–McConnellBusTechGroupYN AZF212.5Hispacold–51––X–––SegeCoachDesignYN AZF212.3Konvekta58–––––X–McConnellCoachConceptsYN OpticruiseScania212.3ThermoKing57–––––X–StylerideSMCYN AZF318Hispacold57––––X––PrecisionBusCoachDesignNN AZF212.3Hispacold–53––––X–SegeIrizarYN AZF212.5Hispacold–53––––X–SegeN/AYN AZF212.5Konvekta50–––––X–McConnellN/AYN AZF212.3Coachair57–––––X–McConnellN/AYN OpticruiseScania212.3Konvekta58–––––X–McConnellN/AYN AZF212.5ThermoKing––41––X––McConnellN/ANN OpticruiseScania212.3Konvekta58–––––X–McConnellN/AYN AZF210-12.9Hispacold59–––––X–SegeN/AYN AZF210-12.9Hispacold59–––––X–SegeN/AYN AZF210-12.9Spheros57–––X–––McConnellN/AYN ASVolvo313-14.9Hispacold–30–X––––SegeN/AYN ASVolvo313-14.9Hispacold–69––X–––SegeN/AYN AZF210-12.9Hispacold57–––––X–SegeN/AYN AZF210-12.9Hispacold57–––––X–SegeN/AYN AZF210-12.9Hispacold57–––––X–McConnellN/AYN ASVolvo212.3Hispacold–57––X–––SegeN/AYN ASVolvo314.5Hispacold–60–X––––SegeN/AYY AZF212.5Coachair57–––––X–StyleRideN/AYN AZF210-12.9ThermoKing57–––––X–McConnellN/AYN AZF210-12.9Hispacold57–––––X–SegeN/AYN AZF210-12.9Hispacold57–––––X–SegeN/AYN AZF210-12.9ThermoKing75–––––X–StyleRideN/AYN ASVolvo313-14.9Hispacold–50–X––––SegeN/AYY AZF210-12.9ThermoKing57–––––X–McConnellN/AYN AZF210-12.9Hispacold57–––––X–SegeN/AYN AZF210-12.9ThermoKing––40––X––McConnellN/ANN AZF210-12.9Hispacold57–––X–––SegeN/AYN AZF211-12.9ThermoKing75–––X–StyleRideN/AYN AZF210-12.9Coachair––44––X––McConnellN/ANY AZF210-12.9ThermoKing––45––X––StyleRideN/ANY AZF210-12.9ThermoKing––41––X––McConnellN/ANY AZF210-12.9ThermoKing––57––X––McConnellN/ANY AAuto212.4Cling-Yutong57–––X–––YutongN/AYN N/AN/A28Cling-Yutong28–––X–––YutongN/AYN AAuto212.4Cling-Yutong57–––X–––YutongN/AYN N/AN/A212.4Cling-Yutong57–––X–––YutongN/AYN N/AN/A212.4Cling-Yutong53–––X–––YutongN/AYN AAllison212.4Cling-Yutong53–––X–––YutongN/AYN AAllison28Cling-Yutong27–––X–––YutongN/AYN AAllison28Cling-Yutong27–––X–––YutongYutongYN AAllison28Cling-Yutong27–––X–––YutongYutongYN AAllison28Cling-Yutong27–––X–––YutongYutongYN AAllison210Cling-Yutong–39––X–––YutongYutongYN AAllison210Cling-Yutong–39––X–––YutongYutongYN AAllison210Cling-Yutong–39––X–––YutongYutongYN AAllison212.4Cling-Yutong53–––X–––YutongYutongYN AAllison210Cling-Yutong–39––X–––YutongYutongYN N/AN/A28Cling-Yutong28–––X–––YutongYutongYN
With a deep love for buses and coaches, David Rae, or ‘Desto Dave’, is now working to preserve beautiful buses from yesteryear
Much like many bus nuts around Australia, David Rae’s memories of buses stem back to his early years.
“I remember being in primary school and watching Invicta Bus Services vehicles run up and down in Ringwood in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne,” David told ABC
“My mum never drove, so we always caught the bus. I have always loved riding on them, from the old Leylands to the AECs.”
In a passion that turned into a career and now continues into the project of restoring three old buses, David has spent his life in and around buses and coaches. When he transitioned from a kid
infatuated with the vehicles to a teen living in Glen Waverley, which was prime territory for large family operator Ventura, his love for buses soon turned into a career option.
“Ventura was in my blood then – I used to watch their buses go past my school and it was fantastic,” he says.
David won’t soon forget the day he officially became part of the Ventura, and wider bus industry, fold. While in school, he wrote a letter to the late Ken Cornwall, former Ventura managing director, professing his knowledge and passion for the operator. Cornwall invited him to Ventura’s head office for a chat.
“I was so nervous sitting in his big office,” David says. “He asked me questions about Ventura and was
incredibly nice to me.
“He then wrote a letter saying they had created a position for me in their office starting in January 1988, so naturally I jumped at it.”
Starting at the age of 16 at Ventura, his career has been spent in operations and in the office at Ventura, as well as at tourism charter companies such as NSW’s Oz Experience and Ocean Grove Coaches. While still working casually today driving school buses in Melbourne, his involvement in bus societies saw him begin a new passion project not long ago in the art of restoring old buses. It all started when he went on a society trip in Tasmania and came across an ex-Ventura Tiger he used to ride in as a student and drive when at Ventura.
“I tried driving it and it was like putting on an old pair of slippers – I loved it,” he says. “We got back to the depot and they offered it to me to buy at a really good price, so I bought it and got it painted in the old Ventura colours.”
It took plenty of work to get the bus restored, but it was all worth it when the bus completed its makeover. Alongside his collection of destination rolls that have resulted in him being nicknamed ‘Desto Dave’, David soon added a second bus to his restored fleet when he came across an ex-Davis Bus Lines Volvo B10M bus on a society tour around the Werribee area.
When he then found an old ex-Kastoria Bus Lines MercedesBenz 0405 with a Volgren body, his collection became three. David says he’s very grateful for his longsuffering girlfriend Glenys and her help in cleaning all three buses, as well as the operators that have helped in his preservation efforts along the way.
Now, he’s working on a storage shed to house them all so he can show off his collection from a life well spent in the bus and coach industry.
Above: 'Desto Dave' is continuing to build his vintage bus collection.
Image: David Rae
“I’ll continue doing what I love and see what happens,” David says. “Bus has always been in my blood, and it appears that it stays there, doesn’t it?”
