Vouch for that

SHELLHARBOUR City Council has announced the pilot of a new public transport program over the next three months making it easier to catch a cab from licensed premises throughout the City, through a special Taxi Voucher Scheme.

Councils Road Safety Officer, Jenny Davies, said the Taxi Voucher Scheme looks to reduce undesirable behaviour of patrons waiting for cabs, making the venues more attractive to patrons and taxi drivers alike.

Patrons who want easy access to a taxi simply approach staff at the venue, they record their details and issue a voucher. The taxi company dispatches the booking, including a voucher number, to the driver who then collects the passenger, said Ms Davies.

This scheme is a win/win situation for all involved; the improved transport service makes it easier for patrons to get home, patrons are less likely to be involved in anti-social or criminal behaviour while waiting for a cab, taxi drivers are more comfortable picking up passengers who have a voucher and licensed premises are safer and more attractive venues.

Venues participating in the Taxi Voucher Scheme are Albion Park Hotel, Albion Park RSL Club, Lakeview Hotel Motel, Links Hotel, Shell Cove, Oak Flats Bowling and Recreation Club, Ocean Beach Hotel Shellharbour, Shellharbour Workers Club, The Oaks Hotel Motel, Warilla Bowls and Recreation Club, Warilla Hotel and Warilla Sports Club The Sporties

Almost 120 venues in Sydney use the scheme and theyve recorded outstanding results including a major decrease in antisocial behaviour and fare evasion, while attacks on drivers and loitering have all but been eliminated, said Ms Davies.