The important role that Gulgong's Nightrider Bus plays in the community was expressed, when it was announced that it has received funding to keep it on the road.
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The service was started in 2009 by the Gulgong Liquor Accord to provide a transport option for people from local pubs and clubs on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and attempt to curtail drink driving incidents - given that no taxi service is available in the area.
"I'm really pleased to announce $7,500 through the Community Road Safety Grants program to keep the Nightrider Bus going and doing a great job," Dugald Saunders, member for the Dubbo electorate, said.
"It's a really good 'Plan B' at this time of year particularly, that's what we're focusing on, and the Nightrider Bus has shown over many years that it is a great Plan B.
"There was a little bit of disruption 12 months ago, but thanks to the dedication of the Gulgong Liquor Accord this bus is making a real difference - locally and also for visitors to Gulgong."
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President of the Gulgong Liquor Accord, Bill Egan, said, "this bus is essential for the town to survive". And that the support it receives is testament to the standing of the service in the community.
"Since its creation 10 years ago, the drink driving charges in town have reduced significantly and when it looked like it was going to fold 12 months ago you could see the charges pick up again," he said.
"The police were happy to support it and this funding will go a long way to making sure that the bus keeps going for the next 12 months. The pubs and clubs put in to keep the bus going - without them it wouldn't happen - as well as all of the community donations, from the customers and various businesses."
Over the years the Nightrider became a service for locals who otherwise would've had difficulty getting around the town. And in mid-2018 it faced an uncertain future until a sub-committee of the Gulgong Chamber of Commerce was formed to manage it.
Earlier this year, a twice-a-day Gulgong/Mudgee route on Fridays was introduced, aimed at helping Gulgong residents access major services while also giving tourists in Mudgee a link to the small town.