Dear Bugle Reader,

As you may be aware, I have been pushing for an upgrade of the South Coast Line. Whilst I’ve been able to secure more seats and more services over the years, one of the upgrades I’m pushing for at present is the installation of a passing loop south of Kiama to double the capacity of the line between Kiama and Bomaderry.

Whilst some have argued for the duplication of the entire line, this four kilometre passing loop is an elegant solution that makes practical and economic sense. Add to this new hybrid trains that run on both diesel and electric lines and you deliver the benefits of an electrified line for a fraction of the price of laying and electrifying an additional set of tracks.

Under questioning from me in the NSW Parliament, the Regional Roads Minister has admitted that the NSW Labor Government are putting this rail upgrade on-hold whilst they undertake yet another ‘review’.

You can view my questions and the Minister’s answer by clicking here.

I know how hard it is to get things done. But I also won’t let this government get away with cutting projects from our region so they can take the money to Sydney. Sydney gets enough investment, and our growing region needs investments that make a real difference.

FREE RAT TESTS

I have free Rapid Antigen Tests available from my office at 102 Terralong Street for those that would like them. We have secured these tests from the NSW Department of Health.

No appointment is required, and you can drop-in and pick up yours today.

REGIONAL SENIORS TRAVEL CARD

Whilst you are in my office, you may want to sign my petition opposing NSW Labor’s cuts to the Regional Seniors Travel Card.

We are seeking to secure 10,000 signatures on our petition so we can have this matter debated in Parliament.

If you would like to, you can also take sheets away and have your friends and family sign them.

Given that the Government said it wouldn’t cut this card when it was in opposition, I will be doing all that I can to hold them to account.

 Have a great week!

Gareth