Red Bus CDC NSW has today begun operating bus services on the Central Coast and surrounding areas marking the start of a new chapter in the region’s public transportation.
Combining the legacy of the well-known Red Bus Services with the expertise of CDC NSW, passengers can expect the same familiar buses and drivers, ensuring a seamless transition.
Awarded by the New South Wales Government in July last year as part of a joint venture, the Outer Metropolitan Bus Services Contract for Region 7 (OMBSC7) will start from today, July 6, 2024, spanning eight years.\
At the same time as the new services commence, The Shore Family, long-standing operators of the renowned Red Bus Services, have announced the sale of their Central Coast bus company to CDC NSW, effective from today. Red Bus CDC NSW will now be wholly owned by CDC NSW.\
For more than eight decades, Red Bus Services has provided reliable transportation services to The Entrance, Gosford, Wyong, and surrounding areas, earning a respected reputation within the community. However, following the passing of John Shore Snr, the family has made the decision to prioritise the best interests of all members by entrusting the business to a reputable transport provider.
“After many discussions as a family, we have decided that this transition represented an opportunity to sell the business to a trusted partner. We approached CDC NSW last year with an acquisition proposal and they have been incredibly respectful throughout the process,” said John Shore Jnr, Managing Director of Red Bus Services. “Our collaboration with CDC NSW through the period readying the business to start new services today has demonstrated their commitment to staff and investment in local communities, aligning with the values that Red Bus was built upon.”
John Shore Jnr expressed confidence in CDC NSW’s ability to uphold the Shore Family’s legacy, stating, “They understand the importance of maintaining the high standards of service excellence that our community has come to expect. While this transition marks a new chapter, we are assured that the Red Bus brand and reputation will be preserved.”
The Shore Family will continue to own the Central Coast Bus Depot, currently utilised by the new entity, ensuring a sense of continuity and familiarity for the community they have served for generations and the Red Bus brand will still be seen on all buses as part of the Red Bus CDC NSW brand established for the contract.
There will be minimal jobs affected by the sale and all of the drivers have been transferred to the new entity. Several of the Shore Family members, including John Jnr will move across to Red Bus CDC NSW and will continue to help manage operations on the Central Coast and surrounding areas.
David Mead, CEO of CDC NSW, emphasised the organisation’s commitment to a seamless integration. “With the Shore Family’s blessing, we aim to preserve the well-regarded Red Bus brand and reputation. The transition has been managed well over the past 6-12 months by our combined teams to ensure that we are prioritising the best interests of Red Bus Services’ employees, customers, and the broader community we serve.”
The acquisition solidifies CDC NSW’s position as a leading provider of community transportation services in New South Wales, further strengthening its ability to meet the evolving needs of the region’s commuters. CDC NSW currently operates four Outer Metropolitan Bus Service Contract regions and two Metropolitan regions, with extensive experience working alongside various operators across Australia over the past 18 years. This contract will further expand CDC NSW’s operations, employing over 2,500 people in New South Wales.