Gulgong liquor accord sought to address the issue of DUIs and alcohol related road accidents for their areas. The accord, in consultation with the community, developed the Nightrider Community Bus service - an award-winning courtesy bus transport system that supports a regional town with limited public transport.
Gulgong Liquor Accord: Nightrider Community Bus
Award-winning solution transforms nighttime safety for small community
In the town of Gulgong transport, particularly at night, has always been an issue. With no taxis, no bus and no train, options were limited for anyone wanting to enjoy a few drinks at one of the local pubs or clubs.
When NSW Police showed the local Liquor Accord the number of DUIs and alcohol related road accidents in the area and the impact this was having on the community, Accord members knew it was time for action.
In consultation with the community, licensed venues and the RMS, the Nightrider Community Bus service was created.
The service, funded in part by the Accord, supports a wider harm minimisation strategy, focusing on positive change for the community. Venues and local police work together to monitor patrons accessing the bus to ensure the safety of all passengers.
The introduction of the Nightrider bus means patrons can enjoy a night out and take advantage of an alternative to driving, while venues can collaborate to minimise the risks of drink driving and anti-social behaviour.
Booking a seat on the bus is well promoted through local licenced venues, social media, supermarkets, and various community channels.
On average 8,000 people take advantage of the bus each year and its popularity continues to increase.
Thanks to this simple idea by the Liquor Accord, the community has an award winning courtesy transport system that has been welcomed by all.
- the bus runs Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 6pm until late
- service covers a radius of 20 kms from Gulgong
- the whole community can access the bus, not just patrons of licenced venues
- the bus driver works with local police to ensure passenger safety
- seats on the bus are booked through licensed venues or the dedicated Facebook page
- venues monitor patron behaviour before booking seats to mitigate risk
- if a patron is barred from a licensed venue, they are also barred from the bus.
- liquor accord members contributing towards the service
- patrons on the bus who pay for the service are based on the distance they travel and via a ‘donation’ bucket
- government and community grants won by the Accord.
- local Police report a decrease in the number of alcohol-related incidents in the area
- visitors and residents now have a safe and reliable option for travel after dark
- Accord members work together on harm minimisation for patrons and support the broader community.