Bus service pilot program is a pearler

Broome North and Roebuck Estate residents will have easier access travelling to and from town after a trial bus service started this week.

Pearl Town Bus Service has begun operating new routes from Chinatown to the suburbs as part of a six-month State Government-funded pilot program.

The scheme was approved and launched by the Department of Transport in response to community requests.

Pearl Town previously offered a bus service through Roebuck Estate a few years ago, but it was terminated because of a lack of patronage.

The new service will run Monday to Friday from Carnarvon Street near Male Oval three times a day and undertake a 16-minute, eight-stop trip through the areas.

Pearl Town owner Melissa McDougall said it would operate separately to the usual bus services and required public support to become a permanent option for commuters.

A full trip on the route will be a two-section fare priced at $2 for adults and 80 cents for concession holders.

Kimberley MP Josie Farrer, who lobbied the Government for the trial service last year, said she was delighted for residents.

"This will greatly benefit families living in these areas, especially those who do not have their own transport," she said.

"The environmental benefits of using public transport are also important."

Roebuck Estate resident and mother-of-five Melanie Horner said she would take full advantage of the service.

"I think it's wonderful," she said.

"We can get out to Broome North to use the skate park … the kids love going on the bus as a novelty and we can get into town easy and make a day trip of it."

Mrs Horner said she hoped the community would get behind the initiative.

"I think as long as we all start utilising it, we can keep it around for longer."

Visit http://www.broomebus.com.au.