Commuter havoc: 115 bus drivers call in sick at Hillsbus

COMMUTERS trying to get home during peak hour this afternoon could be faced with major delays after more than 100 bus drivers called in sick at a bus depot in Sydney’s northwest.

Huge line of people stuck waiting for buses this morning in Kellyville. Picture: Gav Lamb

MORE THAN 100 bus drivers called in sick today at a bus depot in Sydney’s northwest causing havoc for commuters across The Hills trying to get to work.

Hillsbus has confirmed more delays and cancellations are also expected during peak times this afternoon mainly from the city to suburbs in the northwest.

Hillsbus is contracted to run bus services in areas such as Rouse Hill, Castle Hill, Dural, Blacktown and Parramatta.

Transport for NSW said school buses would not be affected.

Havoc this morning waiting for buses at Kellyville. Picture: Gav Lamb

“Today’s disruption has been caused by 115 drivers calling in sick, which is almost six times higher than the average absentee rate for this time of year,” a Hillsbus spokesman said.

“Hillsbus sincerely regrets the disruption and inconvenience caused to our customers.

“We are working to operate as many services as possible, however, there will be some cancellations and delays this afternoon on some routes.”

Hillsbus confirmed it was in the middle of discussions with drivers about a new enterprise agreement.

Huge line of people stuck waiting for buses this morning in Kellyville. Picture: Gav Lamb

However, the Transport Workers’ Union told the Hills Shire Times it was not behind the high number of drivers calling in sick.

A picture was sent to the Times this morning of a huge line of people waiting for buses near the T-way in Kellyville, at the intersection of Samantha Riley Dr and Old Windsor Rd.

“Hillsbus has urged its customers to consider alternative travel options (this afternoon) with further disruption to peak services expected due to a higher than expected number of drivers calling in sick at their depot in northwest Sydney,” a spokesman said.

“Customers travelling from the CBD in particular should consider travelling earlier or using alternative transport options where possible.”

Transport for NSW posted on its Twitter page Buses Info: “We have worked with the operators to deploy drivers from other areas they service to assist during this afternoon’s peak. School buses and station link services are unaffected.”

A Transport for NSW spokesman said Hillsbus was contracted to run services through to 2022.

“CDC, trading as Hillsbus, has held a contract to operate bus services in Sydney’s northwest since August 2005.

“Their current contract commenced in August 2014 for a term of eight years.”