Media Release - TOOT - 7th September 2011

Cautiously Optimistic

The NSW Budget has allocated $2mil for a study on rail services on the north coast.

Page 9-4 of the Budget Estimates reads: “$2million to conduct a study of the north coast rail services”

“We’re cautiously optimistic about this allocation,” said Ms Karin Kolbe, President of TOOT.

“We hope the terms of reference will seriously look at the real costs and benefits of rail, both short- and long-term,” said Ms Karin Kolbe, President of TOOT.

The benefits for locals include getting young people to training, older people to medical appointments and reducing congestion on our roads.

It would be a real drawcard for tourists to explore the region. From media statements (Don Page on ABC Radio 7 Sept) we understand this money will also include an integrated regional transport plan.

“For years we and many others have said the region needs such a plan”

“Rail should be forming the backbone of an integrated transport plan for the region. The world has realised that rail solves many problems such as environmental issues and road congestion.”

“The rail line is an existing asset worth millions and we need to be using it,” said Ms Kolbe _________________________________________________________________________________

Media: Karin Kolbe 0411 594 599 This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it www.toot.org.au