Thursday 19 July 2012

The State Government has overhauled public transport fares for Ekka ticket holders.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said public transport options to this year's Ekka (9-18 August) would be easy and affordable, after years of commuter dissatisfaction.

"This year, people have a real incentive to use public transport to get to and from the Ekka with a special travel ticket," Mr Emerson said.

"Whether you are coming from Robina or Rosalie the special Ekka travel ticket means show-goers only have to pay $6 for adults and $3 for concession.

"A family of four purchasing the travel tickets rather than normal paper tickets from the Gold Coast, could save $85 and avoid the queues at Ekka station after the fireworks for the return trip home.

"The tickets will be available from all attended Queensland Rail stations and on bus and ferry services upon presentation of a valid Ekka entry ticket.

"Those who prefer to use their go card will no longer face the $1.30 surcharge which previously applied to train passengers travelling between Ekka station and the CBD."

The Labor Government removed daily Ekka ticket options last year, leading to a chaotic situation at Ekka station where there were long queues to purchase return tickets home.

"I spoke to a number of upset families at last year's Ekka that were weighed down with show bags and tired children and waited more than 30 minutes to purchase a ticket home," he said.

"TransLink and the RNA have been able to work together to deliver an affordable option to benefit the 200,000 people who used public transport last year."

The Ekka travel ticket can be used on any regular TransLink services or any of the hundreds of additional bus and train services added for the event.

Ekka goers should pre-purchase their entry tickets at ekka.com.au prior to purchasing the travel ticket.

For further details about using public transport to the Ekka this year will be available from translink.com.au or on 13 12 30 closer to the event.