Newcastle Enhances Public Transport for Anzac Day Commemorations
Newcastle Transport has announced a significant expansion of public transport services for Anzac Day, with additional bus, ferry, and light rail operations commencing from 3.30am. This initiative aims to assist residents in attending the dawn service at Nobbys Beach and various commemorative events throughout the day.
Planning Ahead for Smooth Travel
Keolis Hunter Operations Manager Daniel Collis emphasized the importance of advance planning, urging the public to utilize the extra services. "We encourage everyone heading to Nobbys Beach or any of the morning's events to plan ahead and make use of the extra public transport services available," he stated. With multiple road closures in effect for the dawn service and morning march, leaving cars at home is strongly recommended to avoid congestion.
Detailed Service Enhancements
The enhanced transport schedule includes:
- Light rail services running every 7.5 minutes from 3.30am.
- Ferry services operating every 20 minutes starting at the same time.
- Additional bus services on routes 11, 13, 14, and 23 from 3.10am to and from the CBD.
- Extra services on core bus routes from Swansea Heads, Glendale, Wallsend, and Jesmond into the CBD.
During the Anzac Day march on King Street from 8am to noon, buses will be rerouted to Hunter and Scott streets, with minor adjustments to CBD services. Customer Service Officers will be present to assist travelers throughout the morning.
Honoring Tradition and Community
In addition to the transport upgrades, the annual Anzac Day Service at the Hamilton Depot Memorial on Denison Street will proceed as usual. "While it will be a very busy day for our staff with additional services running, this tradition allows them to take a moment to honour and pay their respects," Mr. Collis noted. This event, held since 1930, brings together Keolis staff, representatives from The Depot ExServicemen's Club, Transport Officers, The Transport Institute, and the NSW Ambulance Service.
A special benefit for veterans and their families includes free travel on public transport for Anzac Day. Travelers can plan their journeys using the Newcastle Transport website or preferred travel apps to navigate events across the city efficiently.
