On-demand bus run just the ticket for blind pizza maker

An innovative ‘Uber-like’ bus service on the Coffs Coast has been given the green light to keep running. Here’s how it works.

The Woopi connect ‘on-demand’ mini bus service is here to stay - and among those cheering the announcement is a vision-impaired pizza maker.

The on demand transport service is akin to an ‘Uber bus’ - where people use an app, or call the company by phone, to dispatch a coach when it’s needed.

The program aims to offer an alternative to taxi services in the towns just north of Coffs Harbour, and a trip can cost as little as $4.30 for adults.

Andrew Fogg, general manager for ComfortDelGro (CDC buses), said the program aims to help vulnerable people.

“It allows people in our community who can’t drive for whatever reason to have a service,” Mr Fogg said.

On trial for the past three years, the service is open to residents in Safety Beach, Woolgoolga, Mullaway, Arrawarra, Corindi Beach and Red Rock.

Adam Morris, 54, from Coffs Harbour has been blind his entire life and relies on Woopi Connect to get to his job working as a pizza maker and judo lessons.

Mr Fogg said it gives people easy access to the Coffs Harbour CBD from the northern suburbs.

“It will enhance economy, boosting people’s employment prospects and help the elderly get to essential services like medical appointments,” he said.

Mr Fogg said it can open opportunities for people with disabilities.

“Disabled people can live more independent and fulfilling lives with access to personalised and cost-effective public transport,” he said.

Adam Morris, 54, from Coffs Harbour, has been blind his entire life and relies on the system to travel to his job as a pizza maker.

Mr Morris said the service gives him independence.

“It allowed my wife - who studies full time - not to have to take time out of her day to drive me,” Mr Morris said.

The service provides those who may be unable to drive - for whatever reason - a travel option into Coffs Harbour’s CBD.

The service uses a seven-seater mini-van, which picks up residents from designated drop-off locations.

Mr Morris said a regular taxi would cost him a lot more and wait times may be longer.

“Even when you consider the disability vouchers we get with a taxi it’s still about $10 each way. Not really worth it when that’s about an hour’s pay,” Mr Morris said.

Mr Morris said he formed good relationships with the on-demand drivers.

“I get to know them all on a first-name basis and they know me too,” he said.

Coffs Harbour MP Gurmesh Singh said he was pleased to hear the innovative service was becoming permanent.

“It’s great the NSW government is continually exploring new ways to provide public transport options that meet the community’s needs in our region,” he said.

The on-demand service which uses the Woopi Connect app runs from 7am to 7pm weekdays.