Media Releases

Member for Swan Hill, Peter Walsh, said that the 2010 Victorian Seniors Festival in October was a great opportunity for seniors throughout the electorate to enjoy a range of activities and performances in their local area and in Melbourne.
Mr Walsh said that a drawcard for many senior Victorians to attend festival events was the offer of free public transport on regional town bus services, metropolitan transport and V/Line travel during the 2010 Seniors Festival from 3 to 10 October.
As part of the festival there are eight days of free regional town bus services in communities where these services are available. Seniors do not need a ticket for these free services and only need to show their Victorian Seniors Card.
Travel on long-distance V/line rail services and some coach services must be booked before travel.
Free travel on V/Line rail and coach services is available on 5, 6, 7, 9 and 10 October.
Mr Walsh said that reservations for the Seniors Festival free economy class travel open on Tuesday 7 September at 10am.
“I would recommend any one wanting to benefit from the free travel on V/Line services to start phoning early as it is my understanding that there are limited seats available.
“It is regrettable that this system of reserving a V/Line seat to enjoy some of the Melbourne events as part of Seniors Festival has caused upset amongst some seniors in my electorate.
“I would encourage the State Government to look at this issue and consider a fairer system for future festivals.”
Tickets for free travel as part of the Victorian Seniors Festival can be booked at the nearest staffed V/Line station, V/Line ticket agent or by calling 136 196. Bookings can be made for one return journey for up to four Victorian Seniors Card holders and tickets must be collected no later than 48 hours after booking.
Large parties of 12 or more must call V/Line to ensure seats will be available. Call 9619 2338 after 10am on Tuesday 7 September to book.
Information is now available on the Seniors Festival and free public transport for seniors who have access to the internet at http://www.seniorscard.vic.gov.au/web19/osv/dvcosv.nsf