I am writing as a concerned parent from the Strathfieldsaye area whose child attends the Coolock Campus of Catherine McAuley College in Junortoun. It has come to our attention that the charter bus service, which currently provides a direct and convenient transportation option for students living in the Strathfieldsaye, Emu Creek, and Mandurang areas, is scheduled to be cancelled in 2027. This change poses significant challenges for our children and families alike.

With the cancellation of this direct service, students are expected to rely on the Victorian School Bus Program, requiring them to travel into Bendigo before transferring onto buses that return them to Junortoun. This not only elongates their daily commute considerably but also results in them arriving later to school, with little time to settle and prepare for their day of learning. Such a disruption significantly impacts their educational experience and well-being.

Our rural community, like many others, already faces numerous challenges, including the high costs of living, transportation, and housing. The added stress of an unreliable and lengthier commute for our children exacerbates these pressures. For working parents, the worry over the safety and punctuality of their children's journey adds unnecessary strain and anxiety to their day.

According to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, rural families face unique hurdles, with limited access to convenient transportation options being a key issue. By removing this charter service, Catherine McAuley College is not only overlooking the specific needs of its rural families but is also placing them in a difficult situation that could lead to increased absenteeism and tardiness among students.

We urge the administration at Catherine McAuley College to reconsider their decision to cancel the charter bus service. Instead, we propose maintaining this vital link that serves as a lifeline for many students and their families. This can be done by either extending the current contract, exploring alternative funding sources, or seeking partnerships with local businesses or government entities to subsidise costs.

By maintaining the direct bus service, the college will ensure continued support for the educational success and overall well-being of its students. Let us work together to provide our children with the stability and reliability they deserve.

Please join us in signing this petition to keep the charter bus service running for our Coolock Campus students. Your support can make a substantial difference in the lives of many rural families.