Tuesday 26 June 2012

Juma, the eight year old Sumatran tiger, was just one of many Sunshine Coast locals who was clearly "chuffed" with the new savings offered by TransLink's new "9 + free" go card incentive launched today (Monday 25 June).

TransLink CEO Neil Scales and Australia Zoo Owner Terri Irwin took advantage of the savings and joined the 130 kilogram big-cat for a ride on Sunbus's local route 615 (Australia Zoo to Maroochydore via Landsborough) bus.

"Like all eight year olds, Juma was eager to jump onboard the big bus and start exploring our local Sunshine Coast public transport network," Mr Scales said.

"The introduction of the new go card incentive means that after completing nine journeys during a Monday to Sunday week customers can use their card to travel free for the remainder of the week.

"This is a great initiative for families looking to get out and explore the Sunshine Coast, as it now means regular commuters will be able to travel free on weekends to local attractions such as Australia Zoo."

Australia Zoo owner Terri Irwin said the new "9 + free" incentive is great for tourism on the Sunshine Coast and will encourage more people to get out and explore their own back yard.

"The Sunshine Coast has so much to offer with great restaurants, beaches, shops and of course Australia Zoo where you can have a hands on encounter with our gorgeous wildlife," Terri said.

"Australia Zoo is only a short bus trip from the Sunshine Coast on route 615 and there are regular buses on railbus 649 that connect with trains at Landsborough train station for people travelling from Brisbane.

"We also have a separate Australia Zoo shuttle bus service operating from Landsborough train station should customers miss the route 649."

Neil Scales said that the new go card incentive would help to ease the cost of living for regular commuters and families in South East Queensland.

"By regularly using their go card to get around, customers will be able to make a real savings on public transport."

For travel and go card information or to plan your trip, visit translink.com.au or call 13 12 30, anytime.

Tiger fact: Did you know the noise a tiger makes is called a chuff?

Neil Scales (TransLink CEO) and Juma (tiger) on a TransLink bus at Australia Zoo - photo by Ben Beaden

Neil Scales (TransLink CEO) and Juma (tiger) on a TransLink bus at Australia Zoo - photo by Ben Beaden