There was a time you could jump in the back of a ute and catch a lift with banana farmers around the Shire but those days are long gone and one of the key issues that comes up for young people is the lack of transport around the region.
Byron Youth Service (BYS) is calling on the community to support their campaign to buy a bus that is desperately needed so young people can access much-needed services.
‘Transport remains one of the most talked-about issues that continues to affect young people and families in our community,’ Byron Youth Service General Manager Christian Tancred told The Echo.
‘The tyranny of distance and cost of transport prevents young people in our community from accessing services, activities and simply having some independence. When we do our community consultation, young people constantly tell us that lack of transport is one of their main concerns and often presents serious safety issue,’ he said.
The current bus has reached its end of life and urgently needs replacing before the end of this year.
‘We do get some grant money for the costs of running the bus but we have never had success with a grant for the purchase, or lease, of an actual bus so once again it’s up to the community,’ Christian explained.
BYS is planning to raise $80,000 to purchase a late model used bus plus associated costs to run transport for young people two days per week.
Local businesses can also support by sponsorship and advertising their logo on the bus. Support the bus campaign at: bys.org.au/fundraising.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
