COUNTRY RAIL USERS DESERVE BETTER DEAL: SYKES

The Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes, has labelled V/Line’s current ticketing options as discriminatory to country passengers.

Dr Sykes, who has written to V/Line expressing his concern, believes restrictions on the Economy Class Business Card are unfair.

“Currently the Economy Class Business Card is restricted for journeys up to 170 kilometres, while the first class option is available state-wide.

“For many regular country passengers, the restriction means that they cannot access cheaper bulk purchase fares like city commuters.”

Dr Sykes said while V/Line maintains the discrepancy is a decision for its marketing department; he firmly believes it is an issue of fairness for country travellers.

“What is stopping V/Line from extending the current Economy Business Card past 170 kilometres to reward frequent country rail users?

“V/Line has stated that there is little demand for the product, however, how many travellers actually know it is available to them?

“Extending the card would improve the service and provide more equitable ticketing options for country commuters.”

Dr Sykes said the issue was first raised by a Benalla commuter who frequently travels by train to Melbourne to work.

“This person has been a regular train traveller during the past two years and never knew of the existence of any bulk ticket options, first class or otherwise.”

Dr Sykes urged V/Line to consider seriously the proposed extension of the card as part a review of its ticketing and fare system.

“I call on V/Line to extend the card beyond 170 kilometres so that all country commuters can access cheaper fares and at the same time better publicise its services and ticketing options,” he said.

Media contact: Bill Sykes (03) 5762 2100 or 0427 624 989