Shoalhaven City Council Mayor Joanna Gash has launched a statewide first program to provide local students with a free travel service for school approved learning opportunities.
Shoalhaven bus providers have agreed to carry students free of charge on any timetabled bus if the student is participating in a school approved
learning opportunity.
Councillor Gash said she was delighted to officially launch the Shoalhaven Student Pathways Pass and she anticipated the program would provide local youth with ongoing benefits.
“This amazing program will ensure each of the area’s students is provided access to local learning opportunities,” said Cr Gash.
“Previously, students were forced to pay for these bus services, with weekly travel bills becoming
quite expensive.
“It would be a tragedy for any student to be forced to drop out of school, TAFE, work placement or work experience because they could not afford the
travel costs.”
“This exciting program will ensure that Shoalhaven youth are given the best chance of fulfilling their potential.”
The Shoalhaven Student Pathways Pass is the result of two years hard work between Council, NSW Health, the Smith Family, TAFE, the University of Wollongong, Transport for NSW and the area’s bus companies.
Councillor Gash praised the hard work of partnership broker, Lynelle Johnson as well as State Member for South Coast, Shelley Hancock, on gaining funding for the program.
“Lynelle has worked tirelessly alongside Council staff for over two years to ensure Shoalhaven City youth are given every chance of success in life,” Cr Gash said.
“I would also like to thank the NSW State Government and in particular, Member for South Coast, Shelley Hancock for funding this exciting initiative.”
