Bagala Bus

Driving Connection: How the Bagala Bus is Transforming Lives in the Katherine Region

In remote regions of the Northern Territory, the simple act of visiting family, attending medical appointments, or accessing essential services can be an expensive and logistical challenge. That’s why the Bagala Bus, our community-driven initiative, has become pivotal for our Barunga and Wugularr (Beswick) communities.

A Lifeline for the Community

Before the Bagala Bus, residents had to pay up to $350 one way for a taxi ride between Wugularr (Beswick) and Katherine—a financial burden that made regular travel unattainable for many. Now, with tickets priced at just $30 one way or $60 return, the Bagala Bus is saving the community over $109,000 annually while making safe, reliable, and affordable transport accessible to all.

The impact goes beyond just cost savings. For Jawoyn families spread across the Katherine region, the bus has become an important link, making it easier for loved ones who live far apart to connect. Families no longer have to rely on expensive or difficult travel options, allowing them to come together more regularly and strengthen their sense of community throughout the region.

Breaking Barriers to Essential Services

The Bagala Bus doesn’t just bring people to Katherine for leisure; it also provides critical access to health services that improve overall well-being. With Katherine being the closest hub for outpatient and specialist health care, the bus ensures that residents of Barunga and Wugularr (Beswick) can access vital medical appointments, follow-up care, and support services without the prohibitive costs of alternative transport.

Rebecca Bond, CEO of Sunrise Health Service, highlighted the service’s value:

“Accessing outpatient and specialist health services greatly complements the in-community services we provide and vastly improves whole-of-life outcomes for our patients.”

Supporting Economic Empowerment

The bus service is a symbol of community-led progress. Managed by Bagala Aboriginal Corporation, the project creates employment opportunities for locals as bus drivers. These roles offer steady, meaningful work and contribute directly to the local economy.

By reinvesting profits, the service ensures long-term sustainability, while also strengthening the region’s economy and fostering growth. This approach benefits individuals, helps build a more resilient community, and ensures that economic progress stays within the local area.

What’s Next

Since 2021, the Bagala Bus has been operating five days a week across Barunga, Wugularr (Beswick), and Katherine, showcasing the power of community-driven solutions to create lasting impact.

The success of this project highlights what can be achieved when communities come together and take ownership of their future. As the service continues to grow, it offers a model for other mobs to follow, demonstrating how connecting communities through local initiatives can lead to meaningful change, stronger connections, and new opportunities.

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