Community Bus driver volunteers are needed now
Felicity Riches is one of our everyday heroes here in Wakefield who drives the Community Bus and loves it, but we need more people like Felicity to keep the bus wheels turning.
For six years now, Felicity has been transporting residents on local trips and occasionally to Munno Para Shopping City and Elizabeth Shopping City. She says she enjoys the regular passengers’ company and likes the fact she’s making a positive contribution into her community.
“I like that I’m committed to something and that I have this to wake up for and feel good about doing. It also gives me a sense of belonging,” Ms Riches said.
“We go and get morning tea together after the shopping is done most of the time, so the bus is a nice little community within itself. I really enjoy the ladies company – we have good fun.”
A couple of long-serving volunteer bus drivers have hung up their hats and now Council is looking for more enthusiastic people of all ages to fill the ranks and keep this valuable service going.
Wakefield Mayor Rodney Reid said going another 12 months without any new recruits would make the Community Bus more difficult to coordinate and would create some uncertainty around its future in the long term.
“We’re very flexible on what days you’d prefer to come in, whether it be monthly, fortnightly or weekly, and this goes for what driving trips you’re more comfortable with too,” Mayor Reid said.
“To drive our 12 seater bus all you need is a car licence and to pass a few required clearances. So, if you are a confident driver and looking to give back to the community through volunteering then this may be the role for you!
“Volunteering is not just beneficial to you as the volunteer but is also invaluable to the people you are helping and the role you are playing in creating a connected community.”
If you would like to volunteer as a Community Bus Driver or wish to know more about the volunteering process, please contact Community Liaison Officer Larissa McPharlin at Wakefield Regional Council on 8862 0800 or email admin@wrc.sa.gov.au.