ABC #403

AUSTRALASIAN BUS & COACH 

ABC 

VOLGREN 

QUEENSLAND 

RESTRUCTURE 

ANNOUNCED 

BUSTECH 

PROTERRA-BACKED 

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RANGE EXPANDS 

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contents 

ISSUE 403 MARCH 2021 

48 

in the know 

6. editorial | ignition 

On the eve of the highly anticipated QBIC 

2021 Conference, Editor Cotter talks buses, 

coaches - and everything between. 

8. news | the front line 

We’ve gathered up all the key, hardhitting 

Australasian and international bus and 

coach news for you, to keep you in the loop. 

28 

22. bic column 

A NEW ERA 

After the passing of Michael Apps, and 

the ongoing recovery from the impacts of 

Covid, the BIC is busier than ever helping 

represent the industry. 

in focus 

24. In focus | women in transport 

TRANSDEV SUPPORTING WOMEN 

IN TRANSPORT 

To mark this year’s International Women’s 

Day, local bus operator Transdev is working 

hard to change the face of public transport 

and the transport industry more broadly, it 

reports recently. 

28. In focus | busways e-bus trial 

NSW COFFS HARBOUR YUTONG 

E-BUS TRIAL BEGINS 

During a recent trial in Coffs Harbour, 

locals got to experience zero-emissions 

bus rides thanks to Busways’ trial of a 

Yutong E12 along school and route services 

- a first for the immediate area and greater 

region. 

32. coverstory | custom denning element 

OUT OF THE GATES 

EXCLUSIVE: Built in Australia, able to cover 

500km in high temperatures and with 

a smooth, whisper-quiet performance, 

Custom Denning’s foray into electric buses 

has made a very strong start with the 

attractive European-styled Element. ABC’s 

Paul Aldridge got behind the wheel. 

40. operator | tinonee bus company 

THE RIGHT MOVE 

ABC magazine spoke to the two men 

behind Tinonee Bus Company and 

Watsons Bus Company. Here Mathew 

Maidens speaks about how he and coowner 

Nik Hauser are liking their new life 

and business ventures in regional New 

South Wales. Anjali Behl writes. 

48. event preview | qbic annual 

conference 2021 

SOLD-OUT: QBIC 2021 CONFERENCE 

The lockdown-induced write-off that 

was 2020 has arguably made the 2021 

Queensland Bus Industry Council’s annual 

4 

ABC March 2021 busnews.com.au

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24 

EDITORIAL 

Editor: Fabian Cotter 

ph: 0451 194 600 

e-mail: Fabian.Cotter@aremedia.com.au 

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Contributors: Anjali Behl, BIC 

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conference this April on the Gold Coast 

one of the most anticipated events 

on the Australasian bus and coach 

calendar. Fabian Cotter runs through 

what you can expect at this inevitably 

epic event. 

departments 

53. bus marketplace | classifieds 

FOR SALE! 

There’s hundreds of great vehicles 

and services listed here from some 

of the leading bus and coach 

companies on the planet. Have a 

look around and see what you might 

find in there! 

62. factory facts | bus deliveries 

MONTHLY RESULTS 

We know you love them and so we 

have the latest bus and coach supplier 

sales data collected and recorded for 

you to sink your teeth into. To know who 

is who and who’s done what simply 

check it out! 

40 

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busnews.com.au March 2021 ABC 

5

IGNITION 

FABIAN COTTER 

The Energy Within 

With bus use back on the rise, let’s hope it stays that way. 

Catching a local bus recently after 

many, many years, I must confess 

was a weirdly beautiful reminder 

of how unexpectedly enriching 

and soul-lifting such an experience can be. 

Seriously… 

I know that sounds abundantly 

contradictory, even to many of us in the 

bus industry and public-transport worlds, 

but I was recently reminded of one of 

the underlying strengths of the bus-travel 

experience: conversation with people. 

Not all people, of course, as who you get 

stuck with on a trip could ruin your day 

and cause untold psychological damage 

for years to come, no doubt, but get a good 

one where the courtesy, respect and banter 

imparts positive vibes and you’ll often find 

you walk away with much more ‘good value’ 

than the original ticket price. 

“She’s gone to a better place,” this 

grey-haired older lady said. “Her energy has 

gone back to the source.” 

I was catching the bus as I was staying 

back with my poor dad after my wonderfully 

amazing, loving and soul-enriching mum 

passed away a few weeks ago. At 87 and still 

quick witted and agile, loving the odd pub 

meat raffle, small pokies flutter or music 

show at the local with dad on weekends, my 

retired nursing sister and sports-loving mum, 

Dulcie, heard ‘the call of God’ in the wee 

hours of March 5. And her family and friends 

are all massively the lesser for it. 

It’s a long story, but the conversation 

while waiting for the bus soon turned 

to things of a philosophical and spiritual 

nature, highlighted by talk of out-of-body 

experiences and astral travelling. What?!? 

Now, I was sure I had had those in life after 

the odd big night out, but this lady was 

adamant our souls existed and through 

trance-like meditation we can ‘leave’ our 

bodies. Wha…? 

Crazy talk for sure - normally, but right 

about now I was all ears as knowing my 

retired nursing sister and angelic-natured 

mum, always (disturbingly) concerned with 

the welfare of others and helping where 

possible – was amongst some source of 

greater good now. We hear what we need 

to hear, I guess. And I’m telling you now, I 

needed this. 

“Get really tired, darken the room, lay flat 

by yourself, imagine drawing blue light 

slowly outlining your body, concentrate on 

the silence until you ‘hear it’ and the silence 

becomes louder, focus intense, hear your 

pulse loudening like beating jungle drums 

and ‘feel’ it … until it stops ... and you feel 

yourself – your energy, your being – rise,” she 

explained, in a somewhat Dummies Guide 

To... supreme spirituality, I guess. Dunno. 

I told her I’d ‘look into it’ once the world 

went back to making a bit more sense, 

but in the least I was grateful for waiting to 

catch the bus and having such a different 

chat with a good-natured stranger. 

FREE TICKETS 

Well, it sounded good in theory for 

domestic tourism when the Australian 

federal government started offering 

passengers discounted flights to certain 

destinations. The aim was to give the local 

economies there a bit of help. Sweet! Well, if 

you are one of the nominated destinations 

that is, but it has irked many in other areas 

who have seen themselves as ‘missing out’. 

Really? Take a ticket and get back in the 

queue! 

If anything, when it comes to missing out, 

I couldn’t help feel the collective pain of 

our struggling long-distance coach tourism 

sector, whose obvious road-based business 

models means they aren’t included in any 

form of incentivised travel help, and if they 

were, it would be too late for many anyway. 

That is, the greatest win would have been to 

get people onto coaches during the height 

of the crisis last year when domestic flying 

was more of a no-no, but alas it seems that 

window has now closed. A shame. 

CONTENTS AND MORE 

This month, in Issue 403 of ABC magazine, 

it’s finally here: our world exclusive test drive 

of the Custom Denning Element e-bus! 

This was Custom owner Scott Dunn’s 

e-bus vision for the still relatively recently 

purchased Custom Bus Group and even 

more recently acquired iconic Queensland-based 

Denning bus-making entity. 

That synergy had both its supporters 

and detractors, given the each company’s 

distinct storied histories within the very 

fabric of the Australian bus-making scene. 

However, fast forward to now, early 2021 

and the Custom Denning Element is 

poised to tackle the EV transition for the 

benefit of both companies, both locally 

and we hear in the UK, too. Read our 

review on pages 32–38. 

Also inside, we visit the NSW north 

coast’s Tinonee Bus Company in the Taree 

area. It’s a great tale of two mates and 

business partners who moved from Moree 

to Taree to run a bus company – and who 

are already expanding their bus business. 

Check that one out on pages 40–46. 

Clearly ‘in focus’ this issue during 

International Women’s Week 2021, we 

highlight some great initiatives from 

Transdev Australiasia, while also having 

a look-see at the Busways’ NSW Coff 

Harbour e-bus trial of a Yutong E12, 

recently. 

While some will say a trial is a trial is 

a trial, they do so foolishly; the key to 

successful e-bus fleet transitions will 

mean operators looking at their own 

requirements on a case-by-case basis, with 

relative parity to trials based on like-for-like 

regional considerations and charging 

capacities proving crucial - rather than just 

relying on one model’ or city’s trial. 

In terms of news, Volgren’s restructure 

in Queensland was a very interesting 

one this past month and with possible 

job losses on the cards these things are 

never great times for those affected. 

However, insiders confirm there are already 

plans afoot to ensure those workers are 

absorbed elsewhere and/or are well placed 

to get new jobs at another state-based 

company also – technically in the bus 

field. Regardless, hopefully things there 

will work out for all parties involved, if and 

when such measures unfold. 

February deliveries data? Looking stable! 

And finally there’s a mini preview on 

pages 48-50 of the 2021 QBIC Conference. 

Given the debacle of 2020, this first 

belated Aussie bus event promises to be 

great if for no other reason than we get 

to hang out and chat mindless stuff into 

the wee hours like real normal humans 

(remember that?), over a vino or two. 

In the grand scheme of things these 

simple bonding moments could prove 

more valuable than ever. 

Until the next thrilling instalment... 

6 


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NEWS 

VOLGREN QUEENSLAND 

RESTRUCTURE ANNOUNCED 

STAFF AT VOLGREN’S Eagle Farm 

site were informed recently that 

the company’s final bus will be 

delivered to Brisbane City Council 

in May 2021, as the bus supply 

contract between the two entities 

expired as per the contractual 

terms – and contract extension 

options were not taken by 

Council, Volgren has confirmed. 

The country’s largest bus body 

builder will thus restructure 

its Queensland operations as 

the joint-venture partnership 

concludes in June this year. 

Volgren has been operating 

as ‘prime contractor’ to Brisbane 

City Council since 2008 and in 

that time it has supplied more 

than 850 buses to the council, it 

confirms. 

The purpose-built facility at 

Eagle Farm has manufactured 

and delivered more than 1,100 

buses for the Australian market. 

According to Volgren, the 

manufacturer remains in talks 

with the council about ongoing 

maintenance and servicing of the 

current fleet, but has raised the 

possibility of job losses. 

NO MIDDLE GROUND 

Volgren’s CEO Thiago Deiro says 

the company explored several 

options with the council to 

continue operating but, despite 

the best intentions from both 

parties, a middle ground has not 

been reached. 

“Covid-19 has had a major effect 

on all organisations around Australia 

and the world – and government 

bus operators haven’t escaped the 

consequences,” Deiro stated. 

“It has affected budgets in all sorts 

of ways – passenger numbers alone 

have been down significantly.” 

Deiro says that although Volgren’s 

attention would eventually turn to 

Brisbane City Council’s next tender 

for bus manufacturing, at the 

moment the management team 

was concentrating on staff. 

“Our focus is firmly on our Eagle 

Farm employees and we will make 

every effort to support all members 

of our team and their families 

as we work through a complex 

restructuring plan,” he explained. 

“We are determined to retain a 

presence in … Queensland and we 

believe a number of staff can, and 

will, remain in after-sales support 

and servicing roles. 

“There may also be an opportunity 

to redeploy staff to Volgren’s 

manufacturing sites in Melbourne 

and Perth.” 

In addition to those directly 

employed by Volgren, Deiro says 

the discontinuation of the contract 

would affect workers connected to 

Volgren in its extensive supply chain. 

“We are also very conscious of 

the fact that for many Queensland 

Top:: 

As the contract 

with Brisbane 

City Council nears 

expiry, Volgren will 

deliver its final bus 

to the council in 

May 2021. 

Right:: 

Volgren CEO 

Thiago Deiro. 

businesses and their employees, this 

contract was a significant source of 

work and revenue,” Deiro said. 

“These are, in many cases, people 

and teams with highly specialised 

skills and we are in close contact 

with them all about how best to 

manage the period after which 

we stop manufacturing buses for 

Council.” 

He adds that 2020 had been a 

difficult year for much of the bus 

sector, but had left him and many 

within industry in little doubt that 

manufacturing had a stronger 

future than ever in Australia. 

“As the vaccine begins to be 

rolled out, Australia can begin the 

post-Covid economic recovery 

in earnest and I think advanced 

manufacturing can play a central 

part in the rebuilding effort,” Deiro 

stated. 

8 


TRANSIT SYSTEMS EXPANDS BUS SERVICE 

INTO KATHERINE, NORTHERN TERRITORY 

TRANSPORTING nearly 850 students to 

six schools and servicing approximately 

850 kilometres each day, Territory Transit 

– Transit Systems’ local operating name 

in the Northern Territory (NT) – started 

operating 10 school buses in Katherine 

from the February 1, 2021, the company 

announced recently. 

In picking up the new service areas 

in the Katherine region – including 

the Tindal RAAF Base, Katherine City 

Centre, Katherine Gorge, Pine Creek, 

Binjari Community and Cossack – Clint 

Feuerherdt, CEO of SeaLink Travel 

Group, which owns Transit Systems, 

says the company is looking forward to 

continuing to work with the Northern 

Territory government and local 

communities. 

“Since securing the Darwin Urban 

Bus contract in 2014, we have been 

delivering a reliable and comfortable 

service and we’re proud to expand our 

globally-recognised transport services 

into the Katherine region,” he said. 

Additionally, with safety of the 

community and drivers a priority at 

Transit Systems, Territory Transit drivers 

were recently invited to participate in 

a Driver Resilience Training Program 

survey – conducted by the National 

Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) – 

after Transit Systems was awarded 

national funding to roll out a dedicated 

campaign, it confirms. 

“Safety is our number one priority 

as Australia’s largest multi-modal 

land and marine transport company; 

it’s a responsibility we address and 

incorporate in our operations every 

single day,” Feuerherdt stated. 

“Our drivers are on the roads, 

connecting our communities each and 

every day – and it’s not just about how 

well they drive, it’s factoring in other 

drivers, or challenging conditions.” 

RESILIENCE DEVELOPMENT 

Feedback from the survey conducted by 

the Australian-wide network of drivers 

will see the NHVR create a specific 

course for Transit Systems to focus on, 

strengthening areas of growth and 

opportunity to further develop resilience, 

Transit Systems explains. 

“We are proud to deliver this 

additional training program to our 

team and, with a network of 3,500 

buses and 118 ferries, we know that the 

information and skills will be a great 

asset to our teams and the communities 

we service,” Feuerherdt said. 

Representatives from Territory 

Transit are also active in local anti-social 

behaviour awareness initiatives 

and consultative groups, while the 

company continues to lead the way on 

more sustainable transport solutions 

with electric bus trials underway in 

New South Wales, Australia’s largest 

order of electric buses on track, and a 

partnership in the world’s first hydrogen 

bus consortium. 

The company has also announced it is 

operating two brand-new hybrid buses 

that rolled onto the South Australian 

network this month, giving customers a 

greener, cleaner commute. 

“They proudly join our global fleet 

of innovative vehicles, where we have 

extensive experience and knowledge 

across electric, hydrogen and now 

hybrid capabilities. 

“We are passionate about researching, 

developing and delivering more 

sustainable transport options and we 

are excited to work with partners who 

share our vision to create zero emission 

networks,” he said. 

ABOUT SEALINK 

SeaLink Travel Group is Australia’s largest 

integrated land and marine, tourism and 

public transport service provider with 

established international operations in 

London and Singapore, it states. 

It is one of Australia’s most 

experienced and diverse multi-modal 

transport businesses, boasting 

performance-driven capabilities across 

ferry, bus and light rail, it adds. 

SeaLink moves more than 285 

million customers per year, has in 

excess of 8,840 employees and operates 

approximately 3,500 buses. 

Territory Services’ area now includes the Tindal 

RAAF Base, Katherine City Centre, Katherine Gorge, 

Pine Creek, Binjari Community and Cossack. 


9

NEWS 

IVECO DAILY MINIBUS RANGE 

EXPANDS WITH 22-SEAT ‘SHUTTLE’ 

ADDITIONAL CHOICE within the 

fiercely contested people-mover 

market is now available after 

Iveco launched its new 22-seat 

‘Shuttle’-trim minibus option into 

Powering the entire range is 

Iveco’s Euro 6, F1C, four-cylinder 

turbo-diesel engine with ‘Unijet’ 

common-rail injection and four 

valves per cylinder. This power 

Above: 

Rear airbag 

suspension delivers 

a more supple and 

refined ride, says 

Iveco. 

multimedia system boasting 

radio, CD player, MP3 and DVD 

player, GPS and reversing camera. 

Another benefit of the Daily 

minibus is an electric bus plug 

its Daily range. 

plant produces 180 horsepower 

door, allowing easier access 

This new Daily Shuttle minibus 

(134kW) and features a flat torque 

for passengers while providing 

complements Iveco’s existing 11- 

curve with a maximum of 430Nm 

additional seating because of the 

and 16-seat models, providing 

from 1,250rpm, Iveco states. 

swing-out configuration, Iveco 

operators with additional choice, 

“…while increasing the brand’s 

access to new markets with its 

MYRIAD FEATURES 

On the safety front, as standard, all 

explains. 

MANY BENEFITS 

many class-leading benefits,” the 

models are equipped with a driver 

Iveco national sales manager 

company explains. 

airbag, front and rear disc brakes 

Steve Heanes says the Daily 

The latest 22-seat model in 

with anti-lock braking along with 

minibus range, including the new 

‘Shuttle’ trim level is based on 

Iveco’s ‘ESP9’ stability program, 

22-seat variant, provided many 

a 4,100mm wheelbase with a 

which includes myriad features 

benefits compared to others in 

generous H2 roof (1,820mm 

such as: electronic brake-force 

the market. 

standing height), and with a gross 

distribution, anti-slip regulator, 

“The combination of full 

vehicle mass of 6.1 tonnes, Iveco 

drag-torque control, hill-hold 

automatic transmission, extensive 

confirms. 

control, adaptive load control, 

safety equipment, an efficient 

The ‘Shuttle 22’ provides 

trailer-sway mitigation, hydraulic 

Euro 6 engine plus high comfort 

comfortable fabric seats with 

rear-wheel boost, hydraulic-fading 

levels make the Daily minibus 

integrated safety belts, pleated 

compensation, roll-movement 

range an attractive proposition 

curtains, modesty panels 

intervention and roll-over 

across a variety of industries 

with handrails and overhead 

mitigation. 

such as charter services, airport 

luggage rack with integrated air 

The new minibus also features 

shuttle work, for hotels, aged car 

conditioner diffuser, the company 

a lane-departure warning system, 

facilities, schools and the like,” 

states. 

it states. 

Heanes said. 

All Daily minibus models bring 

To deliver a comfortable ride, 

“The Daily minibus is the only 

the market-leading features of 

all models are equipped with 

entrant in the market to offer rear 

the award-winning Daily van 

front independent torsion bar 

airbag suspension to deliver a 

range to the people-mover 

and rear electronically controlled 

more supple and refined ride. 

segment, including the ‘Hi-Matic’ 

air suspension, while the driver is 

“The Daily’s semi-forward 

eight-speed full automatic 

treated to a heated, air-suspended 

front axle also leads to a more 

transmission, a powerful 

seat as well, it adds. 

comfortable drive as the operator 

yet efficient engine and an 

Also standard is the 

isn’t sitting atop the wheels and 

abundance of safety features. 

touchscreen Iveconnect 

feeling every bump in the road.” 

10 


LYONS RECEIVES FIRST MB CUSTOM-DENNING ADVENTURER 

NSW BUS OPERATOR Lyons Bus 

Service, Leeton, has received the 

first TfNSW Panel 3-approved 

Custom-Denning Adventurer coach 

on Mercedes-Benz 0500RF chassis. 

“You don’t realise how much of 

this bus is actually made right there 

on site, at their facility, in western 

Sydney of all places!” said joint 

owner-operator Richard Lyons. 

“It is truly an Australian-made bus, 

and we wanted to support Australian 

made, so this further simplified our 

decision-making process.” 

Lyons Bus Service, Leeton – a 

family business with routes dating 

from 1976 – was originally owned 

and operated by patriarch Jim 

Lyons senior. The business provided 

much-needed transport services to 

the quaint little town of Leeton and 

the extended Riverina region, and 

has done so for more than 45 years, it 

explains. 

Throughout the years, the business 

was divvied up amongst the family 

and, in 2004, Richard and Melissa 

Lyons purchased the portion owned 

by Owen Lyons (Richard’s father). 

In 2020, the Lyons were notified 

of pending bus replacement and 

commenced their journey on 

determining which chassis and 

body combination would suit their 

application, they explained. They 

required a bus that was rugged and 

sturdy enough for their region, but 

more importantly a product that is 

well supported. 

The Mercedes-Benz O500RF Euro 

5 was the chassis of choice – and to 

complement the chassis the Custom 

Adventurer body was selected, 

according to the Lyons. 

“We really wanted a high-end 

product with the aim of also 

supporting local industry. When 

making these decisions, there are 

a lot of factors that need to be 

considered, and one of these was 

relationship,” said the pair when 

asked why they chose the Custom/ 

Right: 

The Mercedes- 

Benz O500RF 

Euro 5 was 

the chassis of 

choice – and to 

complement 

the chassis 

the Custom 

Adventurer body 

was selected, 

according to the 

Lyons. 

Mercedes combination for supply of 

their new bus.\ 

“Our relationship with 

Mercedes-Benz and Custom Bus 

was formed over many years, and 

although we hadn’t bought any 

buses during this time, we often 

saw Mick [Neskes] and Andrew 

McClelland … either helping the local 

operators with various concerns, 

or even dropping by to say G’day,” 

Richard Lyons explained. 

“They never forgot us! Seeing the 

level of support they offered to local 

operators spanning over these years, 

we felt comfortable dealing with Mick 

and Andrew.” 

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11

NEWS 

BUS REPAIR EXPERT: 

“DON’T UNDERVALUE 

AFTERSALES!” 

BUS MANUFACTURING quality from 

new has often ‘overshadowed’ bus 

collision after-sales repairs, but that 

shouldn’t necessarily be the case, 

says a leading Volgren aftersales 

expert. 

In assessing the value of quality 

bus and coach after sales and smash 

repairs, the Australian bus industry 

has much to be proud of, according 

to Volgren. Australian-built buses are 

renowned for their manufacturing 

excellence, it explains. 

The fact is, however, that almost 

all buses used in Australia are placed 

under punishing schedules on 

busy roads in unforgiving climates, 

it says. The best engineering and 

construction in the world can’t 

prevent wear-and-tear, accidents 

and other problems, it adds. 

This is why after-sales service is 

such an exceptionally important part 

of any manufacturer’s operations 

- but for decades the product 

that has left after sales has been 

overshadowed by the product that 

has left the manufacturing facility. 

Queensland-based Volgren 

after-sales expert Brian Weller says 

he makes certain the Australian 

builder’s after sales is just as good as 

its manufacturing. 

As part of a team of 12 specialist 

after-sales workers servicing buses 

from Cairns to northern New South 

Wales, Weller says, in the local bus 

industry, the unit is perhaps best 

known for the work it does for 

Brisbane City Council, but its skill 

and experience allows the team to 

work with a range of operators across 

the state. 

“There’s high numbers of 

Volgrens throughout Queensland. 

They’ve proven themselves to be 

an incredibly reliable product that 

operates well in local conditions. 

They’re everywhere,” Weller stated. 

DIVERSE BACKGROUNDS 

As Weller explains, one of the joys 

of his 10 years at Volgren has been 

meeting such a variety of people. 

In his current role he works with a 

team whose members’ qualifications 

are as diverse as their professional 

backgrounds. 

During their collective careers, 

he and his colleagues – among 

them fitters and turners, qualified 

coach and body builders, as 

well as boilermakers – have worked 

on a range of vehicles, from fire 

engines and trucks to trailers 

and trains. 

Yet Weller says they all agree 

there’s something special about 

buses… 

“[Buses] get in your blood. The one 

thing that brings us together is a 

shared passion for buses and getting 

them back on the road,” he said. 

“We all like a challenge – especially 

in smash repairs. Everyone likes the 

challenge of diagnosing problems 

quickly and fixing the vehicles as 

soon as possible.” 

Above: 

Volgren’s 

Queenslandbased 

aftersales 

specialist Brian 

Weller 

Below: 

“The one thing 

that brings us 

together is a 

shared passion 

for buses and 

getting them 

back on the 

road,” said Weller 

of his team. 

MANY MAN-HOURS 

Restoring a bus after an accident is 

an important part of what the team 

does, and work on a vehicle after a 

major collision can involve as many 

as 100 hours of labour, Volgren 

explains. However, post-crash work 

isn’t the team’s sole focus. 

Aftersales service, as Weller 

explains, is as much about 

maintenance and preventive action 

as it is about intervention after a bus 

is seriously damaged on the road. 

“Anyone who sells a product needs 

to back it up and that’s what we do; 

it’s part of what we offer,” he clarified. 

“We build them every day, we 

know how to pull them apart, 

and we know how to fix them if 

problems come up.” 

Weller added that the team works 

closely with Volgren’s engineers 

based in Dandenong, Victoria. 

“The ability to offer customers 

mobile service vehicles, specialists 

repairers, spare parts and access to 

20-metre spray booths is a huge 

advantage,” he said. 

TEAM DEDICATION 

Weller said that, apart from the 

team’s unparalleled skill and vast 

experience, it is their determination 

and adaptability that sets them 

apart. 

“If we need to put in the hours 

we do, we come in over weekends if 

need be. If it is not turning its wheels, 

that’s a problem for us and the 

customer. 

“We do whatever we need to do to 

get vehicles back on the road [and] 

make sure that we have a perfectly 

safe bus. 

“If you want technical advice over 

the phone, we can help with that. 

“We can send our qualified 

technicians if you have a smash.” 

12 


FORMER CRICKETERS NOW MELBOURNE BUS DRIVERS 

MELBOURNE COMMUTERS may 

now find one of a hat-trick of 

former international cricketers are 

steering their Transdev bus as three 

have found new careers as city-bus 

drivers: Suraj Randiv and Chinthaka 

Jayasinghe, who both represented 

Sri Lanka, and Waddington 

Mwayenga, who represented 

Zimbabwe. 

“We have a huge diversity of 

professional backgrounds among 

our [more] than 1,200 bus drivers,” 

said Transdev Melbourne managing 

director Ian Craig. 

“Next time you get on the bus you 

may be driven by a former cricketer, 

a former pastry chef, or a former 

social worker, just to name a few 

examples. 

“Despite the diversity of 

backgrounds, our drivers share a 

united passion for customer service 

and ensuring we continue to provide 

Victorians with a safe, reliable 

and comfortable journey,” Craig 

explained. 

Randiv and Mwayenga were 

recruited via Transdev’s Journey 

Maker Academy, an initiative 

developed to help people from 

outside the transport industry to 

become a bus driver, the company 

explains. 

The program is particularly 

targeted to people with car licences 

and strong customer service 

backgrounds, who are supported 

in gaining a heavy vehicle licence 

required to drive a bus, it adds. 

Since 2018, Transdev Melbourne 

has recruited 200 bus drivers via its 

Journey Maker Academy program; 

it also offers dedicated recruitment 

programs for experienced bus and 

truck drivers, it says. 

Jayasinghe was recruited 

through the Bus-to-Bus program, 

which helps experienced bus 

drivers transition into a new role 

Above: 

Since 2018, 

Transdev 

Melbourne 

has recruited 

200 bus drivers 

via its Journey 

Maker Academy 

program; it also 

offers dedicated 

recruitment 

programs for 

experienced bus 

and truck drivers, 

it says. 

via tailored training program – 

including driving evaluation and 

tailored training in customer service, 

Transdev states. 

In 2020, Transdev recruited a 

number of experienced drivers from 

the tourism industry due to the 

impact of Covid-19, it explains. 

While wearing masks during 

COVID-19 has helped conceal their 

notoriety, some avid cricket fans still 

have managed to recognise Randiv 

and Jayasinghe, the company 

confirms. 

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13

NEWS 

2021 NSW BUS 

SAFETY WEEK 

A FASCINATINGLY 

says the statistics show when 

thought-provoking and 

it comes to crashes involving a 

disturbing bus incident video 

bus, most fatalities and serious 

issued during NSW Bus Safety 

injuries occur in metropolitan 

Week is a timely reminder of 

areas. 

what drivers encounter all too 

“We see some really dangerous 

often out on our roads. 

behaviour around buses and it’s 

distances from school buses and 

The CCTV footage of foolhardy 

quite shocking to think people 

to slow to 40km/h when they see 

people ineptly navigating their 

would put themselves and 

the flashing lights, as it means 

way around buses – with footage 

others at risk like that,” Minister 

children are getting on or off 

taken from Port Macquarie and 

Constance said. 

the bus and could move out 

Blacktown areas – is a poignant 

“Fortunately, bus crashes did 

onto the road from a buses’ 

and striking reminder for all of 

drop during 2020, but we also 

blind spots. 

the need to be ‘safety aware’ at 

had fewer people out and about. 

“Unfortunately, in the last 

all times in and around public 

As everyone starts returning 

12 months there were over 

transport vehicles. 

to work and coming back into 

170 avoidable safety incidents 

Although a year-’round issue, 

our busier areas, we really need 

around buses in Western 

Busways is urging everyone to 

everyone to pay attention, be 

Sydney,” said Busways Western 

stay safe and be alert on and 

aware and stay alert.” 

Sydney service delivery manager 

around buses in general, as 

NSW Bus Safety Week kicked 

REVEALING STATS 

Steven Hawkins. 

“Penrith has 24 per cent of 

off for a sixth year on Monday, 

During the five-year period up to 

these incidents, with the highest 

February 22. 

June, 2020, a total of 34 people 

causes being passengers not 

With Busways operating 

almost 330 buses in Western 

Sydney and almost 280 buses 

on the NSW mid-North Coast, 

it’s ardently behind Bus Safety 

Week, which aims to improve 

the safety of pedestrians, riders, 

passengers and drivers, helping 

to reduce injuries and lives lost 

on NSW roads, it states. 

Bus Safety Week minister for 

transport Andrew Constance 

were killed in crashes involving 

buses in NSW, Busways states. 

Of the 34 fatalities, 15 were 

pedestrians. During the same 

five-year period, 362 people were 

seriously injured in bus crashes 

including, 69 pedestrians and 18 

bicycle riders, it explains. 

SPEED AND SPACE 

Bus Safety Week is also a time 

to remind drivers to keep safe 

Above: 

In Penrith, most 

accidents on 

buses were 

caused by 

passengers 

not holding on, 

sudden braking 

from cars cutting 

in front of buses 

and passengers 

tripping when 

alighting or 

disembarking 

from the bus. 

holding on while travelling, 

heavy braking on the bus 

due to a car cutting in front 

of the bus, and passengers 

tripping while getting on or 

off the bus. 

“We all have a part to play 

in bus safety, and Busways 

encourages all road users to 

Be Bus Aware and act safely so 

everyone can get home to their 

loved ones,” he said. 

14 


FIRST IRIZAR AUTONOMOUS BUS IN 

FULL SERVICE: SPAIN 

MALAGA, SPAIN, has become the first 

European city to have a zero-emissions 

autonomous bus in full high-capacity 

passenger-carrying operation on its 

streets, via local operator Avanza, Irizar 

reports recently. 

The fully electric 12-metre-long Irizar 

ie bus is a pioneering project because it 

involves putting a standard-size vehicle 

on the road in a real city-traffic situation, 

Irizar explains. 

This is an enormous step towards the 

transport of the future – sustainable, 

connected, safe and autonomous transport 

– where Irizar will be a key player in the 

transformation, it adds. 

This first autonomous bus is the result of 

the AutoMOST Project, financed by CDTI 

through the CIEN program, it confirms. 

Avanza participated as an operator 

alongside 11 partners, which included the 

Irizar Group through Irizar e-mobility and 

Datik. The Polytechnic University of Madrid, 

Insia, CEIT-IK4 and the University of Vigo 

also participated, Irizar states. 

It’s a pilot R&D project that started 

four years ago and finished this year, in 

2021, meeting the projected deadline, 

it adds. 

According to the company, the project’s 

breakthrough is its capacity to transport 

passengers and its interaction with 

vehicles, pedestrians and infrastructure 

under real conditions in the city of Malaga. 

WINNING DESIGN 

The bus uses a high-precision positioning 

and guidance system and will be 

connected to a control centre from 

which specific instructions can be sent 

to each unit and the buses can be 

monitored and their itineraries accessed 

in real time, Irizar states. 

AutoMOST was recently awarded the 

Industrial Design Award in ITS by the 

Spanish chapter of the Intelligent Transport 

Systems Society (ITSS). AutoMOST 

represents the implementation of (Dual 

Mode) shared control systems for future 

automated vehicles, which enables 

operating services more efficiently and with 

more flexibility in the context of intelligent 

and connected infrastructure, it adds. 

Below: 

Malaga has become the first European city 

to have a zero-emissions autonomous bus 

running at full capacity. 

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15

NEWS 

MÜLLER TO LEAD FUSO TRUCK 

AND BUS AUSTRALIA 

DAIMLER TRUCK AND BUS 

Australia Pacific is hailing the 

appointment of Alexander 

Müller as the new Fuso Truck 

and Bus Australia director. 

Müller, who was previously 

the head of global key account 

management and vocational 

business for Mercedes-Benz 

Trucks in Stuttgart, brings 

experience across a range of 

Daimler operations, Daimler 

explains. 

Müller began his career with 

Daimler in 1999 in Stuttgart, in 

the role of marketing manager 

vans. 

In 2002, he took over the role 

as head of sales and marketing 

vans in Italy, where he and his 

team were also responsible for 

building up the Mitsubishi Fuso 

business. 

In 2006, he returned to 

Stuttgart as head of Sales 

and Marketing Fuso Europe 

until 2013, when he was given 

responsibility for sales of Daimler 

Latina in South America for the 

Fuso, BharatBenz, Freightliner, 

Western Star, Mercedes-Benz 

Truck and Vans brands. 

After his return from Sao Paulo 

in 2015, Müller was responsible 

for the management of the 

worldwide Mercedes-Benz Truck 

Fleet and Bodybuilder business. 

During his time at Fuso 

Europe, he oversaw a restructure 

of the sales network and set an 

annual sales record of 10,000 

units, according to Daimler. 

That track record makes 

Müller an “immensely valuable” 

asset for Fuso, Daimler Truck and 

Bus Australia Pacific president 

and CEO Daniel Whitehead 

explains. 

“Further strengthening our 

local management team is 

central to our commitment 

to deliver industry-leading 

products and services for 

Australia’s vitally important truck 

and bus industry,” he says. 

“Securing someone of Alex’s 

ability, experience and proven 

track record to lead the Fuso 

Above: 

Alexander Müller 

is the new 

Fuso Truck and 

Bus Australia 

director. 

brand and respond to evolving 

customer demand is a big plus. 

“Alex knows exactly what 

it takes to realise the huge 

potential of Fuso and its range 

of class-leading trucks and 

buses.” 

Müller – who says he looks 

forward to growing the Fuso 

Truck and Bus business in 

Australia – started his new role in 

Mulgrave, Victoria, at the end of 

February, Daimler confirms. 

“This is a very exciting time to 

lead Fuso in Australia,” Müller 

says. 

“I’m looking forward to 

helping more customers 

grow their businesses with 

the most advanced trucks 

and buses, backed by the best 

customer support packages in 

the country. 

“It will be important for me to 

establish strong relationships 

with customers and dealers 

to offer the best solutions in 

such a dynamic transport 

industry,” he added. 

16 


2021 

MAINTENANCE 

CONFERENCE 

AND TRADE SHOW 

MELBOURNE SHOWGROUNDS. JUNE 28 AND 29, 2021 

MELBOURNE SHOWGROUNDS. JUNE 28 & 29, 2021 

Join us for BusVic’s 66th Maintenance Conference and Trade Show; recognised 

as the industry’s leading exhibition, conference and networking event. 

DELEGATE REGISTRATIONS OPEN LATE APRIL 

New location at the newly built Victoria Pavilion at Melbourne Showgrounds. 

The recently expanded event space totalling 2,500 sqm features a pillar-less 1,950sqm room 

with a 600sqm glass foyer. Located only 7km from the CBD, Melbourne Showgrounds has 

onsite car parking and public transport stops within a five minute walk. 

• Maintenance, technical & management conference sessions and workshops delivered 

with in and adjacent to the exhibit, all on the one level. 

• Ample amount of time for delegates to interact with leading industry suppliers and be 

brought up to date with the latest products, services and developments. 

• Catering and networking events held within the exhibit. 

• Premium keynote speakers and entertainers as part of the 2 day 

conferenceprogramme. 

• Industry gala dinner held on June 28, and closing networking drinks held on 

June 29 

EXHIBITOR STANDS - For all enquiries about booking a stand, please contact 

Mary Main - mmain@busvic.asn.au or 0417 822 697 

Or Lisa Muston - lmuston@busvic.asn.au or 0420 234 595 

Events will take place consistent with COVID restrictions imposed by the Victorian Government 


17

NEWS 

DAIMLER-VOLVO FUEL-CELL JV 

TRANSACTION COMPLETES 

THE TRANSACTION for the 

formerly-announced joint venture (JV) 

between Volvo Group and Daimler 

Truck AG to cooperate on fuel-cell 

technology for their respective 

commercial vehicle use is now 

complete, both companies have 


The upshot is that Volvo Group 

has acquired 50 per cent of the 

partnership interests in the existing 

Daimler Truck Fuel Cell GmbH & 

Co. KG for approximately EUR 0.6 

billion (A$0.9 billion) on a cash and 

debt-free basis. 

The ambition is to make the new 

JV a leading global manufacturer 

of fuel-cells, and thus help the 

world take a major step towards 

climate-neutral and sustainable 

commercialise fuel-cell systems 

half of this decade,” they state. 

transportation by 2050, they 

for use in heavy-duty trucks as 

The Volvo Group and Daimler 

explain. 

the primary focus, as well as other 

Truck AG own equal interests in the 

In terms of nomenclature, 

Daimler Truck AG and the Volvo 

Group have agreed to rename 

the company cellcentric GmbH 

& Co. KG. 

According to the companies this 

JV will, “…develop, produce and 

applications. 

“A key goal of Daimler Truck 

AG and the Volvo Group is to 

start with customer tests of 

trucks with fuel-cells in about 

three years and to commence 

series production during the second 

Above: 

Volvo Group 

and Daimler 

Truck AG own 

equal interests 

in the JV, but 

continue to be 

competitors in 

all other areas. 

JV, but continue to be competitors 

in all other areas such as vehicle 

technology and fuel-cell integration 

in trucks. 

In November 2020, the Volvo 

Group and Daimler Truck AG signed a 

binding agreement for the JV. 

BUSTECH E-BUS GETS NSW APPROVAL 

BUSTECH GROUP’S ZDi 450 

Adelaide” and in Dubai, and that 

buses in 2021, and ultimately 

powertrain solution provider in 

electric bus has been admitted 

its second-generation Proterra 

planning to convert all 8,000 

the US, it states – Bustech Group 

to the Transport for NSW 

ZDi will be in operation in QLD 

buses in its fleet by 2030. 

has developed an all-electric 

(TfNSW) procurement ‘Panel 3’, 

and NSW in Q4 this year. The first 

“Bustech Group supports 

ZDi 12.5-metre transit bus, it 

presently making it, “…the only 

ZDi Panel 3-compliant buses 

the NSW government’s 

confirms. 

Australian bus company locally 

will commence manufacture in 

initiative to transition to 

Bustech Group’s ZDi bus offers 

manufacturing zero-emission 

Australia in Q2 2021. 

a fully zero-emissions bus 

the highest stored energy of any 

buses for the NSW market,” it 

“Our admission to the NSW 

fleet,” said Kasia Pitman, 

bus on the Australian market, 


procurement panel reaffirms 

director of sustainability at 

delivering 450kW/h of stored 

In being the first “Panel 

the Group’s commitment to 

Bustech Group. 

energy, it states. 

3-approved Australian vehicle for 

delivering the next generation of 

“We are committed to 

“The all-electric ZDi’s battery 

NSW”, the Bustech Group also 

zero-emission connected transit 

creating a more sustainable 

pack provides over 420kW/h 

states it has a new Newcastle, 

for the NSW market, giving a 

environment and economy by 

of useable energy, enabling 

NSW-based production facility in 

real choice for domestic product 

delivering the future of clean, 

maximum range before 

development. 

versus international import 

efficient and emission-free 

requiring a recharge,” said Gregg 

The Bustech Group’s 

models,” said Christian Reynolds, 

public transport in NSW and 

Dinning, chief technical officer at 

12.5-metre ZDi 450 e-bus will 

executive chairman of Bustech 

Australia more broadly,” she 

Bustech Group. 

use Proterra Powered-supplied 

Group. 

added. 

“This provides operators 

batteries, it explains. 

A Bustech spokesperson 

Last December, the NSW 

government committed to 

ALL-ELECTRIC ZDI 

flexibility in both operational 

use and charging strategy, 

told ABC magazine its first 

transition its entire bus fleet 

Through a strategic engineering 

whilst also addressing Australia’s 

generation ZDi ADR-compliant 

to zero emissions within the 

and supply partnership with US 

extreme weather conditions,” 

vehicle is “in operation here in 

decade, starting with 120 electric 

Proterra, the leading battery and 

he added. 

18 


ALL-FEMALE BUS 

DRIVER ‘SCHOOL’ 

STARTS 

IN A MOVE TO ATTRACT more 

“At a time when Covid-19 has seen 

women bus drivers, Transdev 

many people lose their employment, 

Melbourne is piloting an all-female 

the transport industry offers secure, 

driving school so they can consider 

ongoing employment opportunities 

careers as bus drivers and help the 

and competitive salaries,” she 

company reach its goal to have 40 

explained. 

per cent female bus drivers by 2030. 

The all-female driving school 

The first intake for the all-female 

is a tailored version of Transdev’s 

driving school commenced on 

Journey Maker Academy, an initiative 

Tuesday, March 9, and offers a 

tailored program for women 

who hold car licences to become 

bus drivers in a safe, supportive 

environment. 

developed to help people from 

outside the transport industry to 

become a bus driver, the company 

explains. 

The program is particularly 

a support network of female drivers 

across Transdev Melbourne’s six 

depots, it states. 

The network will promote 

development opportunities for 

Above: 

Transdev is 

aiming to reach 

its goal of 40 per 

cent female bus 

drivers by 2030. 

Head of customer experience 

targeted at people with car licences 

women and be a platform for female 

and communication at Transdev 

and strong customer service 

drivers to connect and support each 

Melbourne, Jane Murray, said: “We 

backgrounds, who are supported 

other and discuss solutions to some 

believe our organisation should 

in gaining a heavy vehicle licence 

of the issues female drivers face once 

reflect the communities we serve. 

required to drive a bus, it adds. 

they have entered the industry. 

Our experience tells us women don’t 

consider careers in the transport 

PROGRAM SUCCESS 

Transdev is also working closely 

with partners on industry-wide 

industry because they may not be 

Since 2018, Transdev Melbourne 

initiatives to recruit more women 

aware of the opportunities that exist. 

has recruited 132 bus drivers via its 

into bus driving roles, including 

“However, many women have 

Journey Maker Academy program. 

working with the Transport Workers 

experience in customer service and 

As part of the initiative to attract 

Union to identify women from the 

community-based roles, which 

and retain female bus drivers, 

aviation industry who have lost jobs 

makes them the ideal candidate to 

Transdev will also launch a female 

as a result of Covid-19 to retrain as 

become a bus driver. 

drivers’ network, designed to create 

bus drivers. 

The all-female driving 

school is a tailored 

version of the Journey 

Maker Academy, an 

initiative developed 

to help people from 

outside the transport 

industry to become a 

bus driver.. 


19

NEWS 

HK BUS OPERATOR 2,500 DOUBLE- 

DECK FLEET REACHED 

THANKS TO ITS latest order for 56 

three-axle Alexander Dennis Limited 

(ADL) Enviro500, Hong Kong’s 

Kowloon Motor Bus Company is 

scheduled to have more than 2,500 

double-deckers in its fleet by year’s 

end, ADL reports recently. 

As Hong Kong’s largest bus 

operator, Kowloon Motor Bus 

Company (KMB) should receive the 

Enviro500 buses from ADL since 

the current generation model 

was launched in 2012, the now 

NFI-owned, British bus manufacturer 

confirms. 

Alexander Dennis president 

and managing director Paul Davies 

said: “We are very honoured that KMB 

continues to place its confidence 

in Alexander Dennis with this latest 

Above: 

“KMB continually 

challenges us to 

raise the bar and 

these latest 12.8m 

Enviro500 buses 

are testament to 

their commitment 

to world-class 

passenger 

services,” said ADL 

president and MD 

Paul Davies. 

liveable cities through connected, 

clean, and sustainable transportation, 

it explains. 

With 8,000 team members in 10 

countries, NFI is a leading global 

bus manufacturer of mass mobility 

solutions under the brands New Flyer 

(heavy-duty transit buses), MCI (motor 

coaches), Alexander Dennis Limited 

(single and double-deck buses), 

latest bus order by the second half 

order for 56 double-deck buses. 

Plaxton (motor coaches), ARBOC 

of 2021. 

“KMB continually challenges us to 

(low-floor cutaway and medium-duty 

KMB is the largest franchised 

raise the bar and these latest 12.8m 

buses), and NFI Parts, it adds. 

bus operator in Hong Kong with 

a fleet of around 4,000 buses 

Enviro500 buses are testament to 

their commitment to world-class 

ABOUT ADL 

operating on more than 400 

passenger services,” he added. 

Alexander Dennis Limited (‘ADL’) is 

routes, it states. 

KMB’s new Enviro500 will be 

ABOUT NFI 

a global leader in the design and 

manufacture of double-deck buses 

12.8m long and powered by 

Leveraging 450 years of combined 

and is also the UK’s largest bus and 

low-emission Euro 6 engines, ADL 

experience, NFI is leading the 

coach manufacturer, it states. 

states. They will be able to carry 

electrification of mass mobility 

ADL offers single- and double-deck 

up to 143 passengers, with all 

around the world, it states. 

vehicles under the brands of 

98 seats fitted with three-point 

With zero-emission buses 

Alexander Dennis and Plaxton, and 

safety belts, it confirms. 

and coaches, infrastructure and 

has more than 31,000 vehicles in 

This new order continues a 

technology, NFI meets today’s urban 

service in the UK, Europe, Hong 

long-standing relationship between 

demands for scalable smart mobility 

Kong, Singapore, New Zealand, 

Alexander Dennis and KMB, which 

solutions, it adds. 

Mexico, Canada and the United 

has now ordered in excess of 2,500 

Together, NFI is enabling more 

States, it confirms. 

20 


MB STARTS BELGIUM 

129 ARTICULATED 

HYBRID BUS ORDER 

THE WOT!?! 

GAS GUZZLER 

THE FIRST of 129 new 

Mercedes-Benz Citaro G hybrid 

articulated buses are now in 

operation in the Belgian towns 

of Liège (Luik/Lüttich), Mons and 

Nivelles in Wallonia, the company 

has announced. 

The strikingly bright-yellow 

18-metre-long articulated buses 

are being operated by Belgium’s 

TEC Group, with the remaining 

vehicles to be delivered by this 

European summer 2021, Daimler 

states. 

According to the company, this 

is one of the largest orders for 

articulated buses in recent years, 

which includes a comprehensive 

service contract valid for eight 

years. 

The TEC Group Citaro G hybrids 

are, “…comfortable, safe and 

environmentally friendly: the 

compact hybrid module reduces 

fuel consumption and therefore 

CO2 emissions of articulated buses 

by up to 8.5 per cent,” Daimler 

states. 

EXTENSIVELY EQUIPPED 

Depending on the type of 

operation the hybrid buses have 

three doors (suburban operation) 

or four doors (inner-city operation). 

Passengers with limited mobility 

can board with the help of an 

electrically powered cassette lift, 

Daimler explains. 

Customers enjoy a friendly and 

fully air-conditioned interior, it 

adds.. The flooring has a wooden 

appearance and the seats with 

comfortably high backrests 

are covered in composition 

leather-fibre material in a “cheerful 

shade of red” USB ports are also 

included, it confirms. 

Drivers sit behind an all-glass cab 

door. They are assisted by the active 

brake assistance system, preventive 

brake assist and sideguard assist, 

which gives support when turning 

- both with pedestrian detection, 

Daimler says. 

ABOUT TEC 

The Belgian public transport 

corporation Transport en Commun, 

TEC Group for short, is responsible 

for local public transport in the 

Walloon Region of the kingdom of 

Belgium, it states. 

The TEC Group employs 

staff of about 5200, of whom 

approximately 3,200 are drivers, it 

confirms. 

There are almost 2,400 buses 

in operation, plus a few trains, it 

adds. The TEC Group operates 

767 routes and transports 

approximately 150 million 

passengers every year, it says. 

Auckland Transport (AT) will unveil New 

Zealand’s first hydrogen fuel cell bus this 

month as it moves towards an emissionfree 

fleet by 2040. AT chief executive Shane 

Ellison said the technology would give public 

transport operators more flexibility and 

complement existing electric bus services. 

The NZD$1.175 million bus built by Global 

Bus Ventures (GBV) in Christchurch will run 

between Howick and Britomart and will be 

operated by transport operator Howick and 

Eastern for the initial trial. Ellison said the 

hydrogen fuel cell technology would allow 

its buses to travel further than fully electric 

vehicles on some of the city’s longer routes 

before refuelling. 

PENS AT THE READY 

Here’s one for the doodlers out there: the City 

of Madison in Wisconsin is looking for designs 

for 30 new bus stations for its East-West Bus 

Rapid Transit (BRT) project. The competition 

is open to all and the winning design will 

be awarded US$10,000 (A$12,800). “These 

stations are intended to improve transit quality, 

comfort and reliability, but they also can be 

an architectural asset to the City of Madison,” 

explains Metro Transit, the city’s bus operator. 

The competition deadline is March 31so you’d 

better get a move on! Details can be found at 

www.cityofmadison.com/metro 

ELECTRIC BOOM 

The largest municipal government order ever 

made for buses was recently announced in 

Montgomery Country, Maryland. The county’s 

Board of Eduction approved a 16-year $169 

million contract to lease 326 electric school 

buses. The vehicles will be built by Thomas 

Built Buses Inc., a division of Daimler AG, 

with electric battery technology provided by 

Proterra Inc. Todd Watkins, the transportation 

director of Montgomery County Public Schools, 

said that school buses were a logical first step 

for this technology: “We know exactly where 

they are going to be overnight and we know 

how far they’re going to go,” he explained. “It’s 

sort of the perfect vehicle to electrify.” 


21

BIC 

A new era for the BIC 

The BIC secretariat is charging on as the industry emerges from Covid. 

Below: 

Government 

seems to have 

forgotten that 

the LTDC sector 

contributes 

directly and 

indirectly up 

to $2 billion to 

the Australian 

economy. 

Many readers of this column will know of the 

recent and sad passing of the Bus Industry 

Confederation’s (BIC) executive director 

Michael Apps. 

The BIC secretariat is committed to keeping this 

column going as we see it as an important reflection 

on issues of the day, relating to government activities 

and industry broadly. 

The BIC has been pedalling hard over the past 

few months, as our friendly bureaucrats came 

out from under their Covid doonas. The BIC has 

responded to a number of Inquiries and Regulation 

Impact Statements, notably the National Transport 

Regulatory Reform, the Heavy Vehicle Emission 

Standards for Cleaner Air and the Fair Work 

Amendment (Supporting Australia’s Jobs and 

Economic Recovery) Bill 2020. We will shortly 

provide a response to the consultation draft from the 

Infrastructure and Transport Ministers on its National 

Road Safety Strategy 2021–30. 

The BIC has also established an industry advisory 

group for the long-distance and coach tourism 

sector (LDTC). The formal establishment of this 

group in recent weeks is timely in view of the recent 

announcement (March 11) by the prime minister 

to award subsidised travel airfares to select regions 

across Australia. The government, particularly, has 

received rebuke from the LDTC sector as longdistance 

tourist coach – decimated by border closures 

and reduced tourist activity – was omitted from the 

initiative. 

In the pre-Covid era, some 8,000 coaches provided 

mixed-use passenger services (charter, school and 

long-distance). It is estimated that there has been a 75 

to 90 per cent reduction in work across the industry 

during the pandemic. The LDTC sector is recovering 

very slowly and this growth will be impacted as 

JobKeeper ends in March. Government seems to have 

forgotten that the LTDC sector contributes directly 

and indirectly up to $2 billion to the Australian 

economy. If you do the sums, even a 50 per cent 

reduction in the industry is economy-destroying. 

The BIC will soon release its Australian Bus & Coach 

Industry 2020 snapshot report, which includes 

a chapter on the LTDC sector, and is exemplar of 

the material that the industry needs to evidence 

the valuable contribution of this sector to Australia’s 

economy. 

The report also supports sector sustainability with 

a 10-year strategy for government and industry 

adoption. The 2020 snapshot report provides a 

detailed analysis of the bus and coach industry for the 

past decade, with statistics relating to manufacturing 

output, employment, the fleet on the road and bus 

operations. 

While the ‘front-face’ of the BIC is kept busy, the 

‘back-room’ is also very hard at work, particularly 

in national heavy vehicle law reform, disability 

standards for accessible public transport and the 

implementation of road vehicle safety standards. 

There is a lot going on with the Department of 

Infrastructure and Transport, with the enforcement 

of new legislation over the next two years, legislation 

and reform agendas that heavily impact on the 

manufacturing and supply sector and the operation of 

the fleet on the road. 

We inform industry of our progress on legislative 

matters and upcoming reform agendas via the 

national bus & coach industry bulletin. New 

subscribers can be kept in the loop by sending an 

email to communications@bic.asn.au. 

The Queensland Bus Industry Council (QBIC) 

conference on the Gold Coast (April 9–11) is the first 

significant industry event post-Covid and the BIC 

secretariat will be there to support QBIC and take the 

opportunity to convene our first council meeting for 

2021. We are really looking forward to it. 

The Bus Australia Network (BAN) is charging ahead 

with its ‘back-to-normal’ seminars and conferences. 

BusNSW will be hosting the biennial Australasia 

Bus & Coach Expo at the Sydney Show Grounds on 

September 29–30 and BusVic is holding its traditional 

Maintenance Conference with a scaled-down trade 

show on June 28–29. The BIC secretariat will be there 

to support the BAN events. 

These industry events are important initiatives 

that bring industry together. Mark your diaries at 

www.ozebus.com.au 

The BIC is currently preparing the plenary and 

social program for the national bus conference to be 

convened at the Sofitel Brisbane Central November 

21–24. We will keep you regularly updated in this 

column of what you can expect from the conference. 

The BIC secretariat is committed to the ‘moving 

people’ vision that enhances the sustainability and 

liveability of Australia’s cities and regions by using 

bus and coach transportation. 

Readers can connect with us on 02 6247 5990 or via 

enquiries@bic.asn.au 

22 


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IN FOCUS 

WOMEN IN TRANSPORT 

Transdev has made the commitment 

to make a 100 per cent improvement 

to its current female recruitment 

figures in 12 months. 

TRANSDEV 

SUPPORTING WOMEN 

IN TRANSPORT 

To mark this year’s International Women’s Day, local bus operator Transdev is 

working hard to change the face of public transport and the transport industry 

more broadly, it reports. 

In the past four years the company has 

recruited 76 female bus drivers and 

five female maintenance staff, it 

confirms. 

Recently, it launched its Women 

in Transport initiative with a goal to 

“make a 100 per cent improvement to 

their current female recruitment figures 

in 12 months”. 

At its Bankstown Depot event, managing 

director Robert Macey announced the 

initiative. 

“We want to remove the barriers and 

make a career in public transport more 

accessible for women,” he said. 

“We are working to create mum-friendly 

driver and workshop rosters to provide 

greater flexibility and working with councils 

to improve on-the-road amenities for 

women. 

“We are also establishing mentor 

groups and expanding our community 

engagement to partner with local women’s 

charities to support them as and where 

possible,” he added. 

THAT’S A WRAP! 

East Hills MP Wendy Lindsay and Canterbury 

Bankstown Mayor Councillor Khal Asfour 

were also in attendance to support the 

announcement. 

To mark the occasion and promote 

its female recruitment efforts, one of 

Transdev’s coaches was wrapped in 

purple and features two female 

employees, bus driver Fenella Davidson 

and mechanic Callie Milne. While public 

transport is traditionally a male-dominated 

industry, Transdev is doing its bit to 

encourage more women to join their 

ranks in all roles, it states. 

PROUD WOMEN 

New bus driver Davidson made a career 

change last year and hasn’t looked back, 

she explained. 

“When I started training there was 

another female in the group and we really 

leaned on each other, which was super 

helpful,” said Davidson. 

“For the whole journey so far the men 

have been really great. They’re always there 

to offer advice and the management team 

have been awesome.” 

24 


I feel so lucky to 

be doing a job 

that I love and 

hope that other 

young women 

consider a career 

in this field. 

Four years ago, apprentice mechanic 

Milne swapped her nursing scrubs for 

overalls to fulfil her lifelong dream to 

become a mechanic. 

“The workshop is a very male-dominated 

space, but I know I am treated as an equal 

by my colleagues. I feel so lucky to be doing 

a job that I love and hope that other young 

women consider a career in this field,” 

she said. 

Both women are proud to promote their 

careers within public transport and be 

part of the changing face at Transdev, the 

company says. 

ABOUT TRANSDEV 

Transdev says it believes public transport 

plays an important part in how a city 

comes to life. Its day-to-day work influences 

families, friends and future generations 

where they live, work and play, it explains. 

In Australasia, Transdev has 5,704 people 

passionate about operating its 2,150 

vehicles and vessels, which deliver more 

than 145 million customer journeys each 

year. 

Above: 

While public transport is traditionally 

a male-dominated industry, Transdev 

is doing its bit to encourage more 

women to join their ranks in all roles, 

it states. 


25

IN FOCUS 

WOMEN IN TRANSPORT 

TRANSDEV ADDRESSING MORE 

DIVERSE TRANSPORT SECTOR 

THE AMBITION to deliver more equal gender 

representation in the workplace is helping 

mobility provider Transdev create a more 

diverse workforce and smash out-dated 

social traditions, it reports recently. 

Since committing to the target in 2018, 

women now make up to close to 30 per cent 

of new employees hired at Transdev. 

In its rail and light-rail operations, women 

now account for more than 42 per cent 

of new recruits – 20 per cent greater than 

industry-wide representation within the rail 

sector, it explains. 

Transdev Australasia’s head of talent, 

diversity and inclusion and learning and 

engagement, Donna Jones, explained that 

there had been significant gains in the 

past two years in breaking down out-dated 

perceptions about a career in public 

transport. 

“Traditionally, one of the biggest barriers for 

women pursuing a career in public transport 

has been around the perceived lack of 

flexibility, which particularly affects those 

with carer responsibilities. To combat this, 

Transdev have made flexible work options 

available for all employees, including our 

frontline teams. 

“In Melbourne we a have developed a 

specialised all-female recruitment and 

training program designed and delivered by 

women to support women in transitioning 

to a career in public transport, by providing 

them with mentoring and training so that 

they can gain the experience and confidence 

to become a bus driver.” 

In 2020, women accounted for 27.7 per 

cent of new recruits in Transdev’s Sydney 

Ferry operations and 17.7 per cent in the 

company’s Australian and New Zealand bus 

operations, the company reports. 

For New South Wales bus trainee 

Fenella Davidson, participating in 

Transdev’s Journey Maker Academy bus 

driver training program helped improve 

her confidence during her transition from 

a career in the corporate sector, Transdev 

explains. 

“The trainers are excellent; they take their 

time building your skills and encouraging 

you,” Davidson stated. 

“My main issue was nerves and my trainer 

spent a lot of time giving me the confidence 

to believe in myself,” she said. 

Now a newly qualified driver, she can’t 

believe what a difference a career change 

has made to her personally, Transdev states. 

“I feel more awake,” she joked. 

CASE STUDY: 

KATIE DRIVER 

Transdev Perth bus team member 

Katie Driver is embracing a new 

flexible lifestyle as a bus driver. 

A proud Torres Strait Islander, Driver 

has a family connection to public 

transport through her mother, who 

is a driver at Transdev’s Fremantle 

depot. 

After working in the mining sector 

covering challenging night-shift 

cleaning roles, Driver was keen to find 

a new opportunity that would give 

her more time to spend with friends, 

family and pursue further study. 

“I was keen to get back to study so 

I wanted a role that would give me 

flexibility to combine study and work.” 

Driver applied for the Journey 

Maker Academy training at Transdev 

– a four-week intensive training 

program for new drivers. 

“At first the training was a little 

challenging, but the more we went 

through different scenarios the easier 

it got. 

“They took the time to teach 

us all the different bus types and 

instruments, and we had lots of time 

to practise techniques until we were 

confident. 

26 


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IN FOCUS 

BUSWAYS E-BUS TRIAL 

COFFS HARBOUR 

E-BUS TRIAL BEGINS 

Coffs Harbour locals have been getting the chance to experience zeroemissions 

bus rides thanks to Busways’ trial of a Yutong E12 along school 

and route services, recently. 

As the first electric bus on 

the roads of the NSW midnorth 

coast city, the aim 

is to test the vehicle and 

charging technology in a 

regional environment, Busways explains. 

The electric bus is fitted with 374kW/h 

battery capacity, giving it a range of 

up to 400km on a single charge under 

current conditions in Coffs Harbour. 

The bus provides lower energy 

consumption resulting in a quieter, 

smoother experience for customers 

and better air quality for the community, 

Busways adds. 

The Yutong E12 Series incorporates 

advanced technologies, including 

regenerative braking, which extends the 

vehicle’s driving range, and fast charging 

in three hours, Yutong explains. 

It’s also equipped with a wheelchair 

ramp and dual wheelchair areas with 

back stop for passenger safety in its 

ultra-low-floor design. 

“Electric buses are our future and 

we’re pleased to be trialling the first 

electric bus on the north coast,” 

Busways’ managing director Byron 

Rowe said. 

“There’s a lot to do to reach a fully 

electric fleet such as innovative policy 

making, joint planning, infrastructure 

requirements, and industry engagement, 

such as trials like this one.” 

FLEET STARTEGY 

Minister for regional transport and roads 

Paul Toole says the NSW government 

was committed to transitioning to a 

zero-emissions bus fleet as part of its 

strategy to make public transport more 

sustainable. 

“The launch of this trial is exciting 

because its outcomes will help shape 

how we move in and around the regions 

into the future,” Minister Toole said. 

“Trials like these help us learn more 

about what fit electric buses could have 

in the regions, particularly where longer 

distance routes are more common than 

in metro areas, as well as how to factor in 

charging times. 

28 


“Feedback from operators like 

Busways on their experience 

is critical to landing the right 

technological solutions for the 

regions,” he explained. 

Member for Coffs Harbour 

Gurmesh Singh says it was 

exciting to see Coffs as a 

key testing ground for new 

technology. 

“Only last July, Coffs Harbour 

was one of just three regional 

centres in the state to trial new 

technology that real-time tracked 

the arrival of a bus, so to now be 

trialling the first electric bus on 

the North Coast is just another 

exciting initiative for our city,” 

Singh said. 

“We’re going to see the electric 

bus operate on several different 

routes and school services 

Monday to Friday, providing many 

Busways drivers with important 

electric bus education. 

“The trial will also help inform 

us of the environmental and 

financial benefits of electric 

buses, as well as validate asset 

maintenance requirements and 

staff training needed to carry 

an electric fleet in the years 

to come.” 

ABOUT BUSWAYS 

Busways is an Australian 

owned and operated company 

with more than 78 years’ 

experience in the transport 

industry, operating services 

across NSW and SA including 

Western Sydney, Central Coast, 

the Mid-North Coast and 

Adelaide’s outer-south network, 

it states. 

The company operates a fleet 

of 890 buses nationwide, 

including 277 on the NSW 

Mid-north coast and it says 26 

million passengers travel on a 

Busways journey every year. 

The company began as a 

single-person operation and 

has grown into a transport,tion 

business with a team in excess 

of 1.756 people across 18 depots, 

it explains. 

It provides school and route 

bus services, as well as expertise 

in transport operations, 

The launch of this trial 

is exciting because its 

outcomes will help shape 

how we move in and 

around the regions into 

the future. 

scheduling, asset management, 

marketing and communications 

and customer experience, it says. 

TRANSPORT FACTS 

Busways states according to a 

submission made by the Electric 

Vehicle Council in 2019: 

In NSW, transport greenhouse 

gas emissions comprised 21 

per cent of total emissions in 

2016/17 studies found, making 

it the second largest source of 

emissions in the state. 

Road transport accounts for 85 

per cent of transport emissions 

Electric buses do not produce 

tailpipe emissions. 

Above: 

The E12 is 

equipped with 

a wheelchair 

ramp and dual 

wheelchair areas 

with back stop for 

passenger safety 

in its ultra-lowfloor 

design. 

Opposite: 

This is the first trial 

of an electric bus 

to take place on 

NSW’s north coast. 


29

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COVERSTORY 

CUSTOM DENNING ELEMENT 

OUT OF 

THE GATES 

Built in Australia, able to cover 500km in high temperatures and 

with a smooth, whisper-quiet performance, Custom Denning’s 

foray into electric buses has made a very strong start with the 

attractive European-styled Element. ABC got behind the wheel 

and enjoyed all of the power with none of the noise. 

WORDS AND IMAGES PAUL ALDRIDGE 

32 


This new Element is the 

very first electric bus 

for Custom Denning 

and, surprisingly, 

it has only been in 

development since January 2020. 

The process from conception to what 

ABC magazine is testing see today 

has been a process that has moved 

quickly from sourcing battery and 

electrical componentry from Europe 

last March, with the very first chassis 

arriving in August, 2020. 

Speaking with Custom Bus 

Group’s national contracts 

manager Grant Mascord about 

the development of the electric 

Element, he explained: “In the initial 

stages of development process, 

the first five chassis were built at 

the Denning Acacia Ridge plant 

(Queensland) using the Denning 

low-floor chassis as a starting 

point. From April onwards, we will 

commence building the chassis 

here at St Marys (Sydney). The 

Element is suitable for all city bus 

applications nationwide – it has 

really broad appeal. 

“For the electrical side of the bus 

we are working in collaboration with 

Actia,” he continued. 

“They are the electric bus 

management suppliers for motors, 

invertors, DC controllers and that 

type of componentry. We also have 

made an agreement with Siemens 

for chargers; it will allow us to use 

the same chargers on the trial buses 

to ensure all data is comparable to 

each other. After that, operators can 

buy what they want as long as it 

meets the required specifications. 

“The trial hasn’t yet commenced, 

but there are two operators lined 

up for Sydney and one is off to 

The only sound you could 

hear was the people talking. 

There’s no engine noise. The 

quiet is pretty amazing. 

Custom Denning says the new 

Element is suitable for all city 

bus applications nationwide. 


33

COVERSTORY 


Queensland; the others are still 

being decided. The trials will run 

for only three months as we are 

confident that within that timeline 

it will be on the portal, at least in 

NSW, so we can sell them. In the 

other states there’s no lock-out, so 

someone could buy one today. For 

the trials there’s a charger supplied 

per bus and things are really close to 

everything commencing.” 

CUSTOM-DENNING 

EYES UK EXPORT 

MARKET 

AUSSIE BUS MANUFACTURER Custom-Denning is planning to export a version 

of its recently released Element electric bus into the UK market circa mid-to-late 

2022, according to reports out of Britain. 

As reported by British bus publication routeone recently, the first zero-emissions 

Element ZE bus platform for single-deck UK use as a demonstrator will likely be 

followed by a hydrogen fuel-cell electric bus soon after. 

Custom Denning is well advanced in making the Element e-bus, with six 12.5m 

battery-electric ADR-spec Element prototypes made, one of which ABC magazine 

has test driven as a world exclusive for this very issue, Issue 403, due out circa late 

March 2021. 

As reported by routeone, production “…will start shortly and a prototype 

hydrogen fuel cell-electric model will be complete by August.” 

Custom-Denning is also developing the 10.2m and 11.8m platforms that 

managing director Scott Dunn says will form the UK offering, it explains. A 

maximum passenger capacity of around 80 is expected, it adds. 

MINOR CHANGES 

Custom Denning is currently developing the Element at 10.2m and 11.8m lengths 

to suit the UK market, routeone reports. 

It adds: “Battery chemistries for the UK are not yet finalised. In hot weather 

testing, with a simulated full load and with air-conditioning in use, the Element 

has delivered a range of over 500km with 378kW/h solid state batteries,” Dunn 

confirmed with the publication. 

Minor design changes will be made to suit UK regulations; the Element will 

be available in one- and two-door format and it will be competitively priced, 

explained Dunn. 

Routeone continues: “While early examples for the UK will be built in Australia, 

he anticipates establishing a plant in Europe ‘quickly’. “Locally based support will 

be provided from the start.” 

It adds that much of the Element’s componentry – including batteries, control 

equipment, steel framing and its ZF axles and steering – is already sourced from 

Europe. 

Energy storage in the battery-electric model is on the roof and at the rear, but 

different chemistries should later permit batteries to be within the floor, the report 

explains. Charging is via a standard CCS2 connector, it adds. 

UK-born Dunn purchased bodybuilder Custom Bus Australia (nee Custom 

Coaches) in 2018 and chassis manufacturer Queensland-based Denning in 2019 to 

effectively merge them as ‘Custom Denning’. 

The lightweight Denning chassis is key to the overall Custom Element e-bus 

concept, which uses an all-new body design. 

Above: 

The dark-grey 

matt finish in the 

driver’s area helps 

reduce glare. 

Opposite, Top: 

The cooling 

system for the 

batteries - very 

accessible for ease 

of maintenance. 

Right: 

A low floor runs 

all the way to 

the back and 

the seats are 

produced by 

Custom Denning. 

THE STANDOUTS 

On any new build - especially one 

that is a first for a company - we like 

to ask what features a company is 

most proud of. In Mascord’s case, he 

simply said: “In one word, the range.” 

“The fact that the battery 

performance has been really 

awesome,” he continued. 

“If you drove the bus to zero, we 

estimate 500km daily. For normal 

use [the range is] probably 350 to 

360km [a day].” 

Mascord pointed out that the 

batteries used don’t operate like 

a standard lithium battery – “you 

don’t drive it to dead and then 

recharge it”. 

“Where our lithium metal polymer 

(LMP) batteries are 100 down to 

80 [per cent], and 100 to 70 are 

optimal, if you leave 30 per cent all 

the time, they’re perfect. Running 

them to an average depth of 

discharge up to 70 per cent gives 

optimum life. The biggest advantage 

over lithium is that there is no 

degradation on a hot day; lithium 

operate up to 45 degrees before 

peak performance drops and if you 

consider what temperatures the 

metal roof of a bus would reach in 

summer, it certainly wouldn’t take 

much to get to 45 plus.” 

Mascord added that the new 

Element being all Australian-made 

from start to finish – built in Sydney – 

is another standout achievement. 

“Yesterday, we had a drive with 

30 passengers and you just don’t 

experience the standard bus noises 

that can be annoying. The only 

sound you could hear was the 

people talking. There’s no engine 

noise. The quiet is pretty amazing. 

“Being built locally, the build time 

is an impressive 20 working days 

for the bus. Add a little more for the 

chassis [and], say, in total 30 working 

34 


days. The biggest lead time is for the 

batteries and the electrical componentry 

that can take up to six months, but we 

have planned ahead and forecast sales, 

so we can meet the quick timeframe for 

purchasers.” 

This is a really impressive timeframe 

and being locally built with such a quick 

turnaround time has to be an added 

attractive feature for operators. 

Regarding the warranty, Custom 

Denning is offering a three-year warranty 

for everything back-to-back, with the 

batteries having a 10-year expected 

lifespan, depending on the operating 

environment. The batteries actually have a 

minimum of 10 years with possibly up to 

15 years, explained Mascord. 

“We’ve done some modelling on data 

from operators, based on their current 

runs, and the figures are really good. 

“I think brake servicing and pad wear 

is going to be a massive change to what 

we all do now. There are barely any fluid 

changes for servicing, so you’re going to 

save there. You basically are going to be 

checking coolant; there’s a system that 

cools all the electrical components and 

the motor, the invertors and some of the 

controllers. The battery system we use 


35

COVERSTORY 


Top: 

There are two driver screens, one 

showing the camera feeds and the other 

displaying operational information. 

Above: 

Custom Denning has developed an 

attractive, clean design. 

Opposite, Top + Below: 

The full range is 500km on a charge, 

with recharge only taking five hours; 

with 250kW and 3,000Nm. Acceleration 

was smooth and virtually noiseless. 

doesn’t require cooling and that’s a weight 

saving,” he explained. 

CUSTOMISATION 

The Element has flexible seating and door 

options, with the possibility to go from a 

two- to one-door configuration and gain 

two extra rows of seats. There’s the option 

to go total standees for, say, an airport-type 

operation, he says.. 

“Because we do it all we can be flexible,” 

Mascord said. “This bus is just one in a huge 

range of possibilities to suit all applications. 

“We are also looking at options for 

school buses. In some options like that 

we could start needing fewer batteries, 

[resulting in] huge savings for operators 

… as batteries make up 30 per cent of the 

cost of the bus.” 

We love talking to and meeting our local 

bus builders and the people close to the 

development and marketing of a new 

vehicle, especially when we are looking at 

a homegrown vehicle. We need overseas 

competition, it’s healthy and our industry 

wouldn’t advance at the pace we are 

without that, but to see the building of 

technologically advanced vehicles carrying 

the ‘Australian Made’ logo is something 

that’s hard not to applaud. 

THE DRIVE 

Before we start the test drive, on approach 

the Custom Denning Element looks 

different. It really stands out. We were 

expecting to be dazzled by the technology 

and features, but we were impressed 

by the bus’ external appeal. The angled 

fiberglass blue headlight skirt is a totally 

new design for Custom Denning and 

really has a smart European look that is 

something quite different. 

36 


The Element has six batteries in 

total, mounted in the rear and in 

the roof cavity. These have 63kWh 

each for a total of 378kWh of power. 

Custom Bus says the LMP battery 

can get full charge in as little as five 

hours, which was a lot quicker than 

we expected and easily covered 

with a bus’ downtime between runs 

or overnight. What’s also different 

about the Element’s battery system 

is that it is specifically built for 

Australia’s harsh conditions and 

temperatures; it can operate without 

problem up to a huge 70 degrees 

Celsius. 

Another impressive feature of 

the batteries is that they contain 

no solvents and are cobalt and 

nickel-free, which means they can 

be 99.7 per cent recycled and there 

are no end-of-life disposal issues. It’s 

one thing to have new technology 

that improves environmental 

impact, but not unless the whole life 

cycle is considered. Custom Denning 

can even assist with disposal, which 

is good environmental forward 

thinking, no doubt. 

The Element’s interior seats 

produced by Custom Denning have 

an unusual but appealing hexagonal 

patterned fabric combined with 

contrasting orange bright-coloured 

hand rails for a great look. 

The woodgrain flooring is 

attractive and works well with the 

rest of the interior colour scheme. 

An added bonus is that the flat floor 

continues all the way to the rear of the 

bus without having a step up, which 

is outstanding. A special mention is the 

head height inside the bus, which sits at 

over 2.4m. 

Sitting behind the wheel as we set off, 

you automatically wait for the usual sounds 

that are part of the diesel bus drive, but 

there are none to be heard. The only sound 

is from the passing traffic and windscreen 

wipers. There’s a slight wind noise from the 

doors but, overall, the bus is so quiet that at 

first it’s a bit unnerving. However, it wouldn’t 

take long to get used to, and to love, the 

peaceful driving. 

The driver’s cabin is very comfortable with 

an attractive dark-grey matt finish dash. It’s 

a good dark colour to stop any driver glare 

and reflection, which can be an issue with 

lighter dashes. The mirrors on the Element 

work perfectly. In particular, the side 

blind-spot mirror has one of the best fields 

of view we’ve experienced; you can see right 

low down the whole side of the bus. 

There are two digital screens. One shows 

all of the camera displays and the second 

is an LCD display for the driver, showing 

information on battery charge, regen, tyre 

pressure, door open and close displays and 

lights operation, etc. 

Although very easy to operate, there’s lots 

of information on the screens so Custom 

Denning is providing driver training and 

development courses to operators so that 

drivers can get the most efficiency out 

of the bus. It’s one thing to drive a bus 

well, but to really get the most out of the 

technology good driver training is essential. 

Actia Telematics will be available with 

a few options depending on what the 

operator wants, Mascord confirms - if a 

company wants to record and analyse 


37

COVERSTORY 


The batteries have a 10-year life 

expectancy and Custom Denning 

will help recycle them at the end of 

their life. 

Specs 

MAKE: Custom Denning Element 

CHASSIS: Denning low floor 

BODY: Custom Denning, stainless 

steel frame 

DIMENSIONS: 12.5m long x 3.3m 

high (2.45m inside) 

WEIGHT: Slightly more than 12 

tonnes 

BATTERIES: Six 63kWh LMP from 

Blue Solutions Bollore (France), giving 

378kWh 

VOLTAGE: 450–648 volts 

RANGE: 500km / 16+ hours 

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS, DRIVE: Actia 

drive motor. Power - 250kW, Torque - 

3,000Nm 

STEERING: ZF electric power steering 

AXLES: ZF front and rear, with offset 

diff and drop axle for low-floor layout 

CHARGING INPUT: DC-CCS Type 2 

BRAKES AND SUSPENSION: Wabco 

with electronically controlled air 

suspension 

SEATING: 43 seats and 24 standing; 

Custom Denning Metro seats 

DOORS: Ventura (Holland) leaf-style 

front door and plug-type rear door 

for better sealing to improve the 

efficiency of the air conditioning and 

reduce battery strain 

AIR CONDITIONING: Valeo HV 

SAFETY SYSTEMS: EBS, ESP, LDWS, 

collision warning system, pedestrian 

warning system 

MISC.: LED lights, electric air 

compressor, on-board telematics 

offering live CAN data and 

operational information, ADR 

approved 

I think brake 

servicing and pad 

wear is going to be 

a massive change 

to what we all do 

now. 

driver data. 

The drivetrain is made by Actia, 

which has been manufacturing 

electrical componentry for trucks, 

trains, cars and even airplanes for 

decades and is considered to be an 

authority in the field. 

There are familiar names as 

well - ZF for axles and steering 

componentry and Wabco 

suspension and braking - ensuring 

maintenance is easy for operators. 

The Element comes standard 

with an electronic braking system 

(EBS), electronic stability control 

(ESP) and electronically controlled 

air suspension (ECAS) for driver and 

passenger safety. 

It also has advanced driver 

assistance systems (ADAS), which is 

a driver assist system that protects 

against lane departure (LDWS) 

as well as including collision and 

pedestrian alerts. 

The pedestrian warning system 

would be invaluable on a school or 

route bus, especially in busy and 

built-up areas. The LDWS would be 

more useful for a driver who has 

been on the road for any extended 

period of time, but added safety 

features are always welcome 

inclusions. 

The electric steering is 

outstanding in its ease of operation; 

straight away it feels like we have 

complete control of where the bus 

is at any given time. Overall, it is a 

well-balanced steering system that 

is not too heavy or light – just easy 

driving, really. 

Straight away we entered into 

busy traffic and the dual motor, with 

250kW and 3,000Nm, was smooth. 

It accelerated up to speed with ease 

and the torque of the electric motor 

felt endless. The feeling of power 

without the normal associated noise 

and lag of a diesel is an unusual 

feeling, but it’s one that you could 

easily get used to – the bells and 

whistles with no bad side effects. 

The quiet drive of the bus is 

the one thing that really sets 

electric buses apart, but with the 

Element it’s also the smoothness 

of acceleration up to speed. There 

wasn’t one part of the drive that 

wasn’t super comfortable and 

effortless. 

An electric bus with the Australian 

Made sticker on the window – well 

done, Custom Denning! 

38 


OPERATOR 

TINONEE BUS COMPANY 

THE 

RIGHT 

MOVE 

ABC magazine spoke to the 

men behind Tinonee Bus 

Company and Watsons Bus 

Company. Here Mathew 

Maidens speaks about how he 

and co-owner Nik Hauser are 

liking their new life and new 

business ventures in regional 

New South Wales. 

WORDS ANJALI BEHL 

IMAGES BEN HOSKING 

40 


usnews.com.au March 2021 ABC 

41

OPERATOR 


Nearly six years ago, 

Mathew Maidens 

was working as an 

operations manager 

for an aerial crop 

spraying company in Moree, NSW. 

One of his close friends in Moree, 

Nik Hauser, was running his own airconditioning 

business at the time. 

The two friends decided that 

they wanted to move to the coast 

and work in a business with more 

stable and set hours – resulting 

in them packing up their lives 

in Moree and moving 500km to 

Taree to set up their own bus and 

coach business. 

For Maidens, the progression into 

the bus industry was natural, as 

his father operated a school bus in 

Moree for over 20 years. His mother 

still operates it to this day. 

“This was the main drive to get 

into the bus industry,” he explained. 

Maidens and his wife, Shannon, 

Above: 

Close friends Mathew 

Maidens (left) and Nik 

Hauser (right) decided 

to move from Moree to 

Taree to set up a bus 

company together. 

Right: 

For Maidens, the 

progression into the bus 

industry was natural, 

as his father operated 

a school bus in Moree 

for over 20 years, which 

his mother still operates 

today. 

Opposite: 

Matnik Investments Pty 

Ltd currently operates 12 

buses: three Mercedes- 

Benz, four Hino, three 

BCI, one Toyota Coaster 

and a Mitsubishi Rosa 

Deluxe. 

42 


along with Hauser and his wife, 

Sharon, set up Matnik Investments 

Pty Ltd in 2015 and, in July of the 

same year, bought the Tinonee Bus 

Company, along with its six buses 

and two Transport for NSW (TfNSW) 

contracts. 

The original business was 

established in July 1987 when 

Ardel and Edna Rooney purchased 

five buses and a contract from the 

Bennett family, who had been 

operating for quite some time 

before that. 

“Today, Nik and I are co-owners 

and co-managers of Tinonee 

Bus Company and Watsons Bus 

Company, with the support of our 

wonderful wives,” said Maidens 

with pride. 

SOLID EXPANSION 

In November last year, Maidens 

and Hauser purchased another 

local business – J Watson and 

Our main focus is the contract school bus and 

route bus services. We also do school charter and 

local charter for sports and excursions. 

Sons Pty Ltd. Operating as Matnik 

Investments Pty Ltd, and now 

trading as Watsons Bus Company 

the new business has its linkages 

dating over seven decades. 

The old J Watson and Sons 

business had been operating 

the service for over 72 years. 

In fact, in what is quite a beautifully 

fitting story in itself, members of 

the Watson family used to travel 

on those buses as children before 

growing up to operate them as 

owner-operators. 

When Maidens and Hauser 

purchased the business they also 

took over five of its buses and one 

TfNSW contract. 

CURRENT OPERATIONS 

Matnik Investments Pty Ltd 

currently operates 12 buses, three 

of which are Mercedes-Benz, four 

Hino, three BCI, one Toyota Coaster 

and a Mitsubishi Rosa Deluxe. 

There is no preferred brand or 

make that the two partners favour 

more. It all comes down to factors 

like safety, reliability, longevity and 

aftersales service that defines their 

preference for a model or make. 

For them, with an average life of 

a bus or coach being up to 11 years, 

there is always room to decide 

whether to stick to or move on from 

a brand. 

Matnik Investments now 


43

OPERATOR 


We have had to implement 

a lot of changes to keep 

everyone safe and all our 

buses clean and sanitised. 

has three depots – in Taree, 

Woodenbong and Kyogle – and 

a workshop facility in Taree. It 

currently employs 15 staff including 

casuals and permanent employees. 

“Our main focus is the contract 

school bus and route bus services. 

We also do school charter and local 

charter for sports and excursions, 

etc.,” said Maidens. 

“Tinonee Bus Company 

provides services along the 

western region of Taree, including 

Krambach, Tinonee, Hillville, 

Mondrook, Tinonee, Wingham 

and Taree south, to a total of 

17 schools. 

“Meanwhile, Watsons Bus 

Company services the areas of 

Urbenville, Woodenbong, Grevilla, 

Above: 

Both Maidens and 

Hauser are very 

hands-on managers, 

sharing admin duties 

between them. 

Right: 

Tinonee Bus Company 

covers school runs 

for 17 schools in the 

Taree region. 

44 


OPERATOR 


Rukenvale, The Risk, Wiangaree and 

Kyogle for up to seven schools.” 

CHANGE OF PACE 

Maidens and Hauser wanted a 

more organised and set routine at 

work when they decided to move 

on from Moree and, golly, is their 

day organised now! 

“We reach the depot at 6.30am,” 

Maidens explained. 

“The first bus departs at 

6.50am, with the remaining 

departing between then and 

8.05am. All buses are back 

at 9am for morning tea and 

we take this chance to brief 

our drivers and have our safety 

toolbox meetings. 

“The day is consumed with 

office work and local bus charter 

management. The afternoon school 

runs start to depart at 2.30pm and 

our last bus returns to the depot at 

5.25pm.” 

Maidens and Hauser are two 

very hands-on managers. They 

do not employ any admin staff, 

preferring to manage those 

tasks between them as well. 

It is a change of place and 

pace for them, but they are 

enjoying their new life, working 

in an industry that they are truly 

passionate about. 

PAST AND AHEAD 

Tinonee didn’t escape the 

repercussions of Covid-19 and, 

like so many other bus and 

coach businesses, its charter 

work was severely affected 

during the start of the pandemic. 

However, the business escaped 

the worst thanks to some of its 

contracts that continued through 

the restrictions. 

“Covid-19 hurt a lot of 

businesses. We were fortunate 

with our school contracts and 

continued to operate, although 

during lockdown some of our 

buses remained empty,” said 

Maidens. 

“We have had to implement a 

lot of changes to keep everyone 

safe and all our buses clean and 

sanitised. The good news for us is 

Every business has its 

challenges, but we work 

through them with our 

wonderful staff. 

that passenger numbers are slowly 

increasing and the charter jobs 

that had been cancelled earlier are 

starting to increase again.” 

Maidens added that the small 

team at Tinonee is proud of the 

work they are doing within the 

community and take immense joy 

in their work. 

“Every business has its challenges, 

but we work through them with 

our wonderful staff. We have a 

great team, which makes it that bit 

easier. It is rewarding to offer these 

services to the community who rely 

on them,” he said. 

“Our future plans are to 

continue to offer professional and 

reliable services and expand our 

business.” 

Below: 

Maidens and 

Hauser say they 

are enjoying their 

new life as bus 

operators, even if 

the working day 

starts at 6.30am! 

46 


FOR 

SALE 

OWNER MUST SELL 

DUE TO HEALTH 

PROPERTY WITH 

TWO BUILDINGS 

unit 1 & 2, unit 2 currently 

rented to bus company. 

Bus company has been in 

operation in the top end 

for 25 years. Will sell as a 

whole or separate. 

For information 

Contact owner direct 

Bill 0403 470 165

SPECIAL EVENT QBIC ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2021 

SOLD-OUT QBIC 2021 

CONFERENCE: MOST 

ANTICIPATED EVER! 

48 


The lockdown-induced 

write-off that was 2020 has 

arguably made the 2021 

Queensland Bus Industry 

Council’s annual conference 

in April one of the most 

anticipated events on the 

Australasian bus and coach 

calendar. 

TO BE HELD at Sea World 

Resort on April 9–10 

and themed ‘Moving 

Forward Together’, 

the sold-out event 

will highlight not only QBIC’s new 

branding, but also the organisation’s 

commitment as an association to 

‘move forward together’ with its 

members, the state government and 

TransLink, as it works to deliver a 

sustainable recovery path to rebuild 

our businesses and the economy, 

it explains. 

Postponed due to the 

pandemic-induced lockdown last 

year – one that many would prefer 

to forget – 2020 was, however, 

also QBIC’s 20th year as the peak 

industry body in Queensland 

representing bus and coach 

operators. 

“I am sure that we will have 

an opportunity to celebrate this 


49

SPECIAL EVENT QBIC ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2021 

achievement, and I thank and 

acknowledge every person who 

has contributed to making QBIC 

what it is today,” said David Tape 

FCILT, CPP executive director/ 

association secretary of QBIC. 

“Again, we have endeavoured 

to deliver a program that is 

relevant and will add value or 

contribute to your business 

operation,” he explained. 

will again provide a unique 

opportunity to engage fellow 

bus operators and key decision 

makers of this billion-dollar 

industry in a relaxed, friendly, 

and informative atmosphere 

supported by a fantastic social 

program. 

“I must also thank our supply 

partners and sponsors for 

their continued support of our 

association,” Tape stated. 

“Historically, the Gold Coast 

in April delivers an average 

temperature of 26 degrees with 

around 10.8mm of rain – what 

better place to meet, socialise 

and conference? 

“On behalf of my executive 

and team, we look forward to 

welcoming you to the Gold Coast 

in April, 2021,” he said. 

Above: 

With the theme 

of ‘Moving 

Forward Together’, 

the QBIC 

conference will 

also be a belated 

celebration 

of 20 years of 

representing 

the industry in 

Queensland. 

TOP TOPICS 

The 2021 QBIC annual 

conference program includes: 

• how flexible fatigue 

management can benefit 

your future business; 

• how we can deal with 

increasing daily pressures 

whilst maintaining a 

resilient and productive 

workplace; 

• what new technologies are 

available and how they are 

trending in Australia; 

• future changes to the 

award system; 

• the modernisation of the 

school payment model. 

PEER ENGAGEMENT 

Organisers are adamant the 

2021 QBIC ‘Moving Forward 

Together’ annual conference 

50 


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Seats 57 School Bous 

Seats 53 With Wheelchair Lift 

Yutong Bus Centre Melbourne - PH (03) 8376 7121 

24 Grasslands Avenue, Craigieburn VIC 3064 

D7 

27 Seats, Cummins ISBe5 160hp, 

DVD/TV, Curtains, Alloy, Tow Bar 

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NEW 

D12 

D9 

57 Seats, Cummins ISB8.9E, 360hp, 39 Seats, Cummins ISB6, 250hp, School 

School Bus with through bins, ABS, ASR, Bus with through bins, ABS, ASR, EBS, 

EBS, ECAS and many more features. ECAS and many more features. 



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2 X 2013 HIGER 

MUNRO 

Cummins ISF 165hp, automatic, 

28 lap sash seat belted seats in 

leather, roof A/C, DVD, towbar, 

travelled approx. 200,000klm 

very clean 

$45,000.00+GST each 

2016 BONLUCK 

“SENATOR 9” 

Cummins ISB 250hp 

Allison auto inc retarder,43 

lap sash seat belted seats, 

A/C, underfloor bins,4 x sliding 

windows, bull bar, travelled 

approx. 145,000klm ,very clean 

$135,000.00+GST 

2010 HINO RNJ8 

automatic,Chiron body, 57 lap 

sash seat belted seats, A/C,3 

door side bins, school lights, 

tachograph, travelled approx. 

230,000klm 

$115,000.00+GST 

2010 MAN 18-360 

ZF As Tronic trans, Coach Design 

12.5m body, 57 McConnell 

Educator 3/2 combination, 

Thermo King A/C, underfloor 

bins, DVD, travelled approx. 

217,000klm, very clean 

$155,000.00+GST 

2007 MITSUBISHI 

ROSA DELUXE 

6sp manual, 24 lap sash seat 

belted seats, school lights, bull 

bar, travelled approx. 220,000klm 

$29,000.00+GST 

2010 VOLVO B7R 

automatic, Custom Coach body, 

57 lap sash seat belted seats, 

A/C, Side bins, school lights, 

travelled approx. 240,000klms 

$140,000.00+GST 

2010 BCI “EXPLORER” 

CUMMINS ISM410HP 

Allison auto inc retarder, 58 

lap sash seat belted leather 

recliners, rear toilet, Tracs A/C, 

large underfloor bins, very clean, 

complete service history 

$115,000.00+GST or 

wheelchair lift equipped 

model $125,000.00+GST 

ABC-HH2-5129255-TS-402 

2015 MERCEDES 

BENZ 0500R 

automatic, Irizar Century 

12.5m body, 57 lap sash 

seat belted seats, A/C, 

DVD, travelled approx. 

198,000.00klm 

$175,000.00+GST 

2 X 2015 SCANIA 

K440EB 

Opticuise,13.5M Coach 

Concepts body, 50 Styleride 

lap sash leather recliners, 

tachograph, 2 door, mid toilet, 

many extras, one fitted with a 

Wheelchair lift, travelled approx. 

400 to 440,000klm 

from $345,000+GST each 

2014 BONLUCK 

“PRESIDENT 2” 

Cummins ISL360hp, Allison 

automatic inc retarder, 53 lap 

sash seat belted seats in leather, 

large underfloor bins, DVD, 

travelled approx. 307,000klm 

Reduced to $135,000+GST 

2015 IVECO 

EURORIDER 

automatic, 13.2m Irizar Century 

body, 52 lap sash seat belted 

recliners, toilet, A/C, travelled 

only 102,000klm 

$215,000+GST Neg 

2010 MERCEDES 

BENZ 1830 

6sp manual, Mills Tui 12.5m 

body, 50 lap sash seat belted 

recliners, toilet, underfloor bins, 

towbar, DVD, travelled approx. 

260,000klm 

$95,000.00+GST 

2012 MITSUBISHI 

ROSA DELUXE 

automatic, 21 passenger,bull 

bar, tow bar, travelled 

325,000klm 

$24,000.00+GST 

4 X 2011/12 HIGER 

“T SERIES” 

Cummins ISB300, automatic, 

57 lap sash seat belted seats, 

A/C, underfloor bins, travelled 

approx. 180-220,000klm 

$85,000+GST each 

PLUS MANY MORE, CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE AT 

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LICENSED MOTOR DEALER 3341258 

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HIGH SPEC, RIGHT PRICE, AVAILABLE NOW 

2010 Scania 

K420EB 

Coach Concepts 13.5m 

body, 50 Styleride lap 

sash seat belted recliners 

in leather, Guide seat, 

mid toilet, 2 door entry, 

tachograph, bull bar, 

carpet, pull down blinds, 

Hot water urn, many 

extras, travelled approx. 

773,00klm. 

$165,000.00+GST 

PLUS MANY MORE, CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE AT 

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Mobile: 0417 699 980 - Email: rodd.hood@bigpond.com.au 

LICENSED MOTOR DEALER 3341258 

Over 35 years experience in the bus and coach industry 

busnews.com.au MARCH 2021 ABC 

55

ABC SALES 

& MAINTENANCE 

Australian Owned and Operated 

Supplier of Yutong Buses 

and Coaches 

QUEENSLAND / NORTHERN TERRITORY / NORTHERN NSW 

$275,000 

1x 2018 MINING D12 EX 

DEMO MINING SPECS 

MINING SPECS EQUIPMENT, fire 

suppressor, tyre monitor, Seat belt Alarm 

system. 

$225,000 

1x 2017 YUTONG 

D9 ZK6930H 

35 seater + toilet, diesel euro 5- Cummins 

IBS 6.7litre. 250hp, heat and cooling 

system. 

$80,000 

1x 2010 HIGER BOSS 

45+1 Leather recline,cummins isl 250 

hp engine, allison 6 sp auto, thermoking 

heat/cool a/c, alloy bull bar, windscreen 

stone guard. 

$60,000 

1x 2013 HIGER MUNRO 

28+1 seater, cummins isf 3.8 litre turbo 

engine, allison 6 sp auto, leather seats, 

spider mirrors, windscreen stone guard, 

front nudge bar. 

Barry Henderson: qldsales@yutong.com.au 0427 750 885 

David Green: sales@abccoachsales.com.au 0418 253 422


CONTACT Phil 03 5623 5377 

admin@warragulbuslines.com.au 

2000 VOLVO B7R 

50 Seatbelts, Toilet, TV/DVD, 

Manual 

2000 MERCEDES 

0405 

Volgren body, Lowfloor, 

2-door, AC 

1999 VOLVO B7 

Auto Bus Body, Auto, 

53 Seatbelt seats, 

Air Conditioned. 

2015 MERCEDES 1830 

Irizar Century body, 57 

Seatbelts, A/C, Automatic, 

200,000km 

2006 MERCEDES 1830 

P&D, A/C, 57 Seatbelts, 

Manual 

$55,000 + GST 

$32,000 + GST 

$55,000 + GST 

$175,000 + GST $80,000 + GST 

2013 HIGER 

T-Series, A/C, 57 Seatbelts, 

115,000km 

$98,000 + GST 

2002 IVECO 

Custom CB50 body, 61 

seats, Manual, Thermoking. 

480,000km 

$45,000 + GST 

2006 HINO RK260 

P&D body, 57 seats, Manual. 

348,000 KMS 

$58,000 + GST 

2000 VOLVO B7 

P&D body, 57 seatbelts, 

Automatic 

$40,000 + GST 

2008 HINO RN8J 

A/C, 57 Seats, Manual 

$65,000 + GST 

ABC-HH-5171496-TS-403 

Need a good 

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BUS SALES DATA 

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MERCEDES BENZ 2002 

AUTOMATIC EXPRESS 

BODY MODEL 1725 

Rego BS01FN. Complete with 57 seats, Carrying 

capacity 64 passengers. Newly replaced Air 

conditioner compressor, Service records available, 

exceptionally tidy vehicle. Only travelled 265,698km. 

$44,000 GST INCLUSIVE, SALE 

DUE TO END OF LINE IN FLEET. 

Contact Wayne Walters 0419 130 656 

ABC-12-5210178-TS-403 

Coach Design 62 pax body, 

includes 5 TV’s, DVD/CB/PA, 

lap/sash seatbelts, cloth 

reclining seats, curtains, 

Thermo King A/C,through bins, 

toilet, steerable tag and a 

lot more. Only 240,000 Klms 

sell now or later. 

$440,000 inc GST 

Call Brian 0418 297 985 

ABC-SV-5191650-TS-398 


57

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W: www.coachworks.com.au 

BUSES for SALE 

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Mercedes Benz 0400 

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Custom Coach Bodies 

14 to choose from - $12,000 

Hino RG197 & RG230 

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Mercedes Benz 0405 

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310,000kms - $12,000 

BUS AND COACH BUSINESS FOR SALE 

INVERELL NSW 

Symes Bus and Coach Service is located in the thriving town of Inverell, 

northern NSW and has been owned and operated by the same family for 

over 60 years. 

The business has Transport for NSW contracts to deliver 15 school 

services, 2 Transport for NSW Trainlink contracts(held for 30 years) and 

is on the Transport for NSW Trainlink panel for pre-planned, emergency, 

and boarding school transfer work. In addition to this contracted work the 

business provides charters to local school and community groups with their 

4 coaches. A Business Manager has been in place for the past 12 years and 

handles all day to day issues of running the business. 

The Council approved bus depot is for sale or lease and has lock up 

undercover parking for all vehicles, 10kw solar system, 2 vehicle hoists, 

computerised maintenance system, bus washing machine, air-conditioned 

offices, and a staff meal room. 

The business is for sale on a walk-in walk-out basis, including all equipment. 

Interested parties must be prepared to sign a confidentiality agreement to 

obtain further information. 

For more info contact: Greg Symes 

(m) 0408 659 459 Email: greg@symescoaches.com.au 

ABC-QH-5211775-TS-403 

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news, reviews, events & entertainment 

visit facebook.com/ABCBusnews 


59

We 

everywhere 

Are Media publishes across six key platforms to maximise audience reach, engagement and response. 

For more information, visit industry.aremedia.com.au

Comfort, convenience 

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DELIVERIES FEBRUARY 2021 

Deliveries hold strong 

in February 

Consecutive months in the 90s are still above the average of 78 in 

the first half of the 2020–21 financial year. 

Bus and coach deliveries eased slightly on January’s 

99 to finish on 90 in February. 

Despite this, encouragingly, the figure 

remains in the 90s, trending above the 70–85 

range in the latter months of 2020. 

In the chassis sector, regular market leader Volvo had its 

strongest month since July 2020, recording 30 deliveries. 

It’s only the second time Volvo has cracked 30 since April. 

Scania drops back into the teens after three months above 

20. Mercedes-Benz and Yutong follow on 11 each. 

The body building sector sees Volgren retain its lead 

with 23 deliveries overall. This figure includes four from 

subsidiary Supportrans. A competitive market sees Bustech 

Group – Bustech (9), Elphinstone (3) and Precision Buses (1) – 

recording 13 deliveries. Yutong records 11, while a further 12 

body builders share the remainder of the market. 

The air-conditioning sector sees Thermo King lead by a 

huge margin with 40 recorded deliveries in February. Next 

best are Spheros and Cling-Yutong on 10 each. A trio of 

Hispacold, Kovekta and MCC follow with seven. 

NSW is back as the busiest state, recording 28 per cent of 

the national deliveries. Queensland follows on 23 per cent, 

with Victoria easing to third on 21 per cent. WA also takes 

one-fifth of the market. 

Turn overleaf for comprehensive bus and coach delivery 

information for February. Please note all data is as supplied 

from manufacturers, at their discretion. 

Encouragingly, bus deliveries 

remains in the 90s, trending 

above the 70–85 range in the 

latter months of 2020. 

62 


Volgren 19 

Bustech Group 13 

Yutong 11 

Gemilang 8 

BCI 7 

Irizar 7 

Scania Higer 7 

Supportrans 4 

Bonluck 3 

Express Coaches 3 

Coach Design 2 

P&D Coachworks 2 

Coach Concepts 1 

Marcopolo 1 

Mercedes-Benz 1 

Omnibus 1 

SALES BY BODY 

The body building sector sees Volgren retain 

its lead with 23 deliveries overall. This figure 

includes four from subsidiary Supportrans. 

A competitive market sees Bustech Group – 

Bustech (9), Elphinstone (3) and Precision Buses 

(1) – record 13 deliveries. Yutong records 11, while 

a further 12 body builders share the remainder of 

the market. 

6% 

TAS 

20% 

21% 

VIC 

1% 

NT 

1% 

SA 

Percentage by 

REGION 

28% 

NSW 

% 

SALES BY 

AIR-CONDITIONER 

The air-conditioning sector sees Thermo King lead by a 

huge margin with 40 recorded deliveries in February. Next 

best are Spheros and Cling-Yutong on 10 each. A trio of 

Hispacold, Kovekta and MCC follow with seven. 

Thermo King 40 

Cling-Yutong 10 

Spheros 10 

Hispacold 7 

Konvekta 7 

MCC 7 

Coachair 4 

Air International XT 2 

N/A 2 

Evocool 1 

VOLVO 30 

WA 

23% 

QLD 

SCANIA 19 

MERCEDES-BENZ 11 

YUTONG 11 

BCI 7 

Sales by chassis 

In the chassis sector, regular market leader Volvo had its strongest month since July 2020, recording 

30 deliveries. It’s only the second time Volvo has cracked 30 since April. Scania drops back into the 

teens after three months above 20. Mercedes-Benz and Yutong follow on 11 each. 

BONLUCK 3 

BUSTECH 3 

HINO 3 

MAN 3 


63

DELIVERIES FEBRUARY 2021 

MANUFACTURER, 

OPERATOR & LOCATION 

UNITS 

CHASSIS 

(Model) 

BODY 

BUILDER 

HP* 

ENGINES 

Rear / Front 

Emissions 

standard 

BCI Paul Anzallino WA 1 Proma BCI 207 R Euro 5 

Go West WA 6 Fleetmaster BCI 320 R Euro 5 

BONLUCK Macphersons Tamworth NSW 1 President 2 Bonluck 320 R Euro 5 

Hurstbridge Bus & Coach VIC 1 President 2 Bonluck 320 R Euro 5 

Polleys Coaches QLD 1 President 3 Bonluck 360 R Euro 5 

BUSTECH GROUP Metro Tas TAS 3 XDI Elphinstone 300 R Euro 6 

HINO N/A NSW 1 RN8J P&D Coachworks 286 R Euro 5 

N/A NSW 1 RN8J P&D Coachworks 286 R Euro 5 

N/A WA 1 RN8J Omnibus 286 R Euro 5 

MAN Surfside Coomera (Kinetic) QLD 1 RC2 19.320 LE E5 Bustech 320 R Euro 5 

Surfside Buslines (Kinetic) QLD 1 RR8 19.320 IC Volgren 320 R Euro 5 

Sunbus Cairns (Kinetic) QLD 1 RC2 19.320 LE E5 Volgren 320 R Euro 5 

MERCEDES-BENZ N/A NT 1 OC500LE Volgren 299 R Euro 5 

N/A WA 1 CITARO Mercedes-Benz 295 R Euro 6 

N/A VIC 1 OC500LE E6 Volgren 360 R Euro 6 

N/A NSW 1 OC500LE E6 Gemilang 360 R Euro 6 








SCANIA AB & NJ Howard Dalton Bus Account NSW 1 K 310 IB4X2 Express Coaches 310 R Euro 5 

AF & AG Hird VIC 1 K 310 IB4X2 Coach Design 310 R Euro 5 

Cooks Buses Orange NSW 1 K 310 IB4X2 Irizar 310 R Euro 5 

Dept. of Public Transport Infrastructure SA 1 K 320 UB4X2 Precision Buses 320 R Euro 6 

H & B Stewarts Bus Company VIC 1 K 310 IB4X2 Coach Design 310 R Euro 5 

Hilliers Bus Company QLD 1 K 310 IB4X2 Express Coaches 310 R Euro 5 

Irizar Asia Pacific QLD 1 K 310 IB4X2 Irizar 310 R Euro 5 

L C Dyson's Bus Services VIC 1 K 310 IB4X2 Irizar 310 R Euro 5 

Martyrs Buslines VIC 1 K 310 UB4X2 Volgren 310 R Euro 5 

McHarry's Bus Lines VIC 1 K 310 IB4X2 Express Coaches 310 R Euro 5 

McHarry's Bus Lines VIC 1 K 360 IB4X2 Scania Higer Touring 360 R Euro 6 

Mooroopna Passenger Service VIC 1 K 360 IB4X2 Scania Higer Touring 360 R Euro 5 

Mooroopna Passenger Service VIC 1 K 310 IB4X2 Scania Higer A30 310 R Euro 5 

Mooroopna Passenger Service VIC 1 K 310 UB4X2 Volgren 310 R Euro 5 

Sunbury Bus Lines VIC 1 K 360 UA6X2/2 Volgren 360 R Euro 6 

Ventura Bus Lines VIC 2 K 360 IB4X2 Scania Higer Touring 360 R Euro 6 

WBL VIC 2 K 360 IB4X2 Scania Higer Touring 360 R Euro 6 

VOLVO Buslines Group NSW 8 B8RLE Bustech 320 R Euro 6 

Transport for Brisbane QLD 6 B8RLE Volgren 320 R Euro 6 

Perth Transport Authorities WA 5 B8RLE Volgren 320 R Euro 6 

Perth Transport Authorities WA 1 B8RLEA Volgren 320 R Euro 6 

CDC NSW NSW 3 B8R Supportrans 320 R Euro 6 

Irizar Asia Pacific QLD 2 B8R Irizar 330 R Euro 5 

Irizar Asia Pacific QLD 1 B11R Irizar 450 R Euro 5 

Irizar Asia Pacific VIC 1 B8R Irizar 330 R Euro 5 

Bambino QLD 1 B8R Marcopolo 330 R Euro 5 

Sahdra NSW 1 B8R Supportrans 330 R Euro 5 

Bentleigh Coaches VIC 1 B11R Coach Concepts 410 R Euro 5 

YUTONG N/A VIC 1 D9 Yutong 250 R Euro 5 

N/A QLD 1 D7 Yutong 165 F Euro 5 

N/A QLD 1 D7 Yutong 165 F Euro 5 

N/A QLD 1 D9 Yutong 250 R Euro 5 

N/A TAS 1 D9 Yutong 250 R Euro 5 

N/A TAS 1 D9 Yutong 250 R Euro 5 



N/A WA 1 D12 Yutong 360 R Euro 5 

N/A WA 1 D12 Yutong 360 R Euro 5 

N/A WA 1 T12 Yutong 350 R Euro 5 

TOTAL DELIVERIES 90 

64 


TRANSMISSION 

A: Automatic 

M: Manual 

AS: Auto-Shift 

O: Opticruise 

TRANS 

MAKE 

AXLES 

BODY 

LENGTH 

(metres) 

AIR-CON 

(Brand) 

NUMBER OF SEATS 

Fixed 

Coach 

Recliners 

Metro 

Long 

Distance 

APPLICATION 

Charter 

City or 

Route 

School 

SEATING 

A ZF 2 8.9 MCC 39 - - - X - - Sege Y 

A ZF 2 12.3 MCC - 55 - - X - - Sege Y 

A Allison 2 13.2 Spheros 61 - - - X - X Sege Y 

A Allison 2 12.5 Spheros 57 - - - X - X Sege Y 

A Allison 3 13.7 Spheros 81 - - X X - - Styleride Y 

A ZF 2 10-12.9 Thermo King 52 - - - - X - Styleride N 

A ZF 2 12 Thermo King 57 - - - - - X Styleride Y 

A ZF 2 12 Thermo King 57 - - - - - X Styleride Y 

A ZF 2 12 Thermo King 57 - - - - - X McConnell Y 

A ZF 2 10-12.9 Thermo King 45 - - - - X - McConnell N 

A ZF 2 10-12.9 Thermo King 57 - - - - - X Styleride Y 

A ZF 2 10-12.9 Thermo King 35 - - - - X - Vogel N 

A ZF 2 12.5– 

Air International XT 45 - - - - X - McConnell N 

A Voith 2 12.1 Evocool 36 - - - - X - Merc-Benz City Star Eco N 

A ZF 2 13.5 Air International XT 44 - 44 - - X - McConnell N 

A ZF 2 13.5 Thermo King - - 44 - - X - McConnell N 







A ZF 2 13.5 Thermo King - - - - - X - McConnell N 

A ZF 2 12.3 Thermo King 57 - - - - - X McConnell Y 


A ZF 2 12.3 Hispacold 57 - - - - - X McConnell Y 

A ZF 2 11.7 Hispacold 43 - - - - X - Precision Bus N 


A ZF 2 12.3 Thermo King 57 - - - - - X Styleride Y 

A ZF 2 12.3 Hispacold 57 - - - - - X Sege Y 

A ZF 2 12.3 Hispacold 57 - 57 - - - X McConnell Y 

A ZF 2 12.5 Thermo King - - - - - X - Styleride N 

A ZF 2 12.3 Coachair 57 - - - - - X McConnell Y 

O ZF 2 12 Konvekta 57 - - - - - - McConnell N 

O – 

Scania 2 12 Konvekta 57 - - - - - - Styleride N 

O Scania 2 12.3 Konvekta 58 - 47 - - - - McConnell N 


A ZF 3 18 Thermo King - - - - - X - McConnell N 

A ZF 2 12.3 Konvekta 57 - - - - - - McConnell N 

A ZF 2 12.3 Konvekta 57 - 52 - - - - Styleride N 

A ZF 2 10-12.9 Thermo King - - X - - X - Styleride N 

A ZF 2 10-12.9 Spheros - - 41 - - X - McConnell N 

A ZF 2 10-12.9 Thermo King - - X - - X - McConnell N 

A ZF 3 10-12.9 Thermo King - - - - - X - McConnell N 

A ZF 2 10-12.9 Coachair X - - - - - X McConnell Y 

A ZF 2 10-12.9 Hispacold X - - - - - X N/A Y 

A Volvo 3 10-12.9 Hispacold - X - - X - - N/A Y 

A ZF 2 10-12.9 Thermo King 57 - - - - - X McConnell Y 

A ZF 2 10-12.9 N/A 57 - - - - - X Marcopolo Y 

A ZF 2 10-12.9 N/A - - - - - - - N/A Y 

A Volvo 2 10-12.9 Thermo King 57 - - - - - X McConnell Y 

A Allison 2 9 Cling-Yutong 39 - - - - - X Yutong Y 








A Allison 2 12 Cling-Yutong - 57 - - X - - Yutong Y 

A Allison 2 12 Cling-Yutong - 57 - - X - - Yutong Y 

A ZF 2 12 Spheros - 53 - - X - - Yutong Y 

SEAT 

BELTS 

*Bustech Group comprises Bustech, Elphinstone and Precision Buses. Volgren’s count includes any units from its partnership with Supportrans. 


65

MAXIMISE 

your audience 

reach with 

3,315 

AUDITED CIRCULATION * 

+28,366 

WEBSITE VISITORS 

EVERY 

MONTH † 

Australasian Bus & Coach (ABC) distributes 

3,315 copies every month based on the auditing 

period April to September 2020. 

These figures are independently audited by the 

Circulations Audit Board (CAB). 

Are Media proudly publishes CAB audit figures for 

Australasian Transport News (ATN), Australasian 

Bus & Coach (ABC) and Owner Driver magazines. 

Visit industry.aremedia.com.au for more information. 

*Average number of copies distributed per issue for the 6 months from April to September 2020. 

†Average Sessions per month, January to December 2020

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ABC #403

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