General News
30 June, 2026
Public passenger service trial to begin
A NEW Public Passenger Service that will connect Ravenshoe, Dimbulah and Babinda to critical services and regional centres will be up and running early this month as part of a three-year trial running until June 2029.
Member for Cook David Kempton announced the new services which will be operated by the Mareeba Community Centre.
The services will operate at minimum two days per week, with two return trips per day, and includes the flexibility for operators to deliver additional services in response to community demand.
Mr Kempton said the trial was in response to ongoing requests from community members, elected representatives and local governments for improved transport options across Far North Queensland, including the Atherton Tablelands and surrounding areas.
The service will include three wheelchair accessible vehicles, with capacity for up to 10 passengers and fitted with tow bars, roof racks and UHF radios.
Mr Kempton said the trial would be delivered with $2.2 million in approved funding under the Bus Service Growth Program.
“This trial is a practical, locally focused solution that will better connect people in Ravenshoe, Babinda and Dimbulah to the services and opportunities they rely on,” he said.
“We’re delivering on our election commitment by improving connectivity for regional and remote communities, ensuring people can stay connected to jobs, healthcare and essential services.”
More information including passenger booking information will be available prior to services commencing this month. The trial will operate across three key corridors – Babinda-Innisfail and Cairns; Mareeba-Dimbulah; and Ravenshoe-Atherton.
