Re: Serco

[gunzel@rocketmail.com]

It was reported that Serco were going to get the MetBus routes. However,
they've gone to Melbourne Bus Link (Dyson/Reservoir). Dpoes anyone know
what will be the last day for MetBus? Saturday 28 February is being
reported. It was interesting to note that the press statement also
mentioned the changes to the contracts between the Government and the
existing bus operators. Quince was always the "odd man out" and it was no
surprise to hear the announcement that all their routes were ceasing on
14 February and being absorbed by the EXISTING established operators.
Does this mean there is no room for any new boys in Melbourne? Also, the
"territorial" approach is a worry. Does that mean we will go back to the
good old days where routes terminated in a side street on the border of
the next operator's route? There has been a general trend in recent years
to organise routes that started and finished at major locations. It will
be interesting to see the carve up of the Met train and tram routes. Will
the existing private bus operators be interested? If so, what will be the
temptation for a bus operator to try to replace a fixed rail service.
Will we again see situations where [disused] tram tracks are "polished
[alas] by rubber rather than steel tyres? Will the private operators have
the funds to replace the existing fleet with low floor vehicles by 2015
as is required under federal legislation?

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