Bundaberg bus enables community access for people with disability

A new bus might seem like an unusual thing to get excited about but for people attending Endeavour Foundation’s Bundaberg Learning and Lifestyle hub, it’s more than just a bus.

The new $70,000 specialised 12-seater vehicle comes fitted with assistive and wheelchair access features and was purchased thanks to a $20,000 grant from round four of the Federal Government’s Stronger Communities Program.

For the people who will use it, the bus means improved access to community programs such as the Bargara Men’s Shed, more opportunity to participate in educational activities and even improved health with regular trips to the gym – simple things that most people take for granted.

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt congratulated the Endeavour Foundation on its successful grant.

“The Stronger Communities program continues to support local organisations that would otherwise struggle to replace vital equipment,” Mr Pitt said.

“The Endeavour Foundation is an important part of this community and I’m pleased this program has supported it to purchase a new bus.”

Manager of Service Delivery Rowena Hanlon said the new bus showed Endeavour Foundation was committed to supporting people with disability meet their needs under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

“We’re very grateful to Mr Pitt for providing a grant of $20,000 to help Endeavour Foundation buy this bus,” Ms Hanlon said, “Everyone is delighted that we now have this valuable resource.

“In regional towns like Bundaberg with limited public and disability transport options, we know it’s crucial the people we support are actually able to access the services that are funded in their NDIS plans and participate more widely in the community.

“This bus will enable people at Bundaberg Learning and Lifestyle to pursue their interests and live their best lives.

“Endeavour Foundation is only able to buy things like this bus thanks to generous community support through donations, prize home lotteries, fundraising events, our own business ventures and of course public and private sector grants.”

Endeavour Foundation supports more than 4000 people with a disability in Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales across a variety of services including learning and skills development, supported employment, accommodation and community access.

To find out more about Endeavour Foundation’s services call 1800 112 112 or go to endeavour.com.au.