‘The Hurley Bus’ Rolls Out Transforming Lives With Transport And Care

The quality of life for aged, frail and palliative patients living locally in Ingham is looking much improved thanks to a local couple’s incredible bequest and a kind-hearted committee that has implemented a new free transfer bus.  

The Ingham Palliative Carers Committee has been operating since 2009 doing great work in the community. When inaugural president Leslie Lowth OAM was informed that Brian and Theresa Hurley intended to leave money in their will to support the committee, she was overjoyed.

The Hurley’s left the committee an incredible $203,000 with the intention that this considerable amount of money would be used to help those in need.  

After careful consideration, the Palliative Carers Committee decided they would purchase a vehicle, which they would call the ‘The Hurley Bus’.

‘The Hurley Bus’ will be free and will offer transport to frail, aged and palliative people, giving them mobility and some lifestyle improvement at an otherwise challenging time in their lives.

President of Ingham Palliative Carers Committee Judy Cardillo said they will offer a broad range of services, while hoping to make peoples’ days better.

“We will be driving them to appointments, outings, family visits, shopping and anything else they want. It's entirely up to them,” said Judy.

“The service is for their comfort and to make their lives a little bit better if we can.”

For the bus to work functionally, the committee need volunteers: drivers and assistants.

Judy said they have many people interested in volunteering, but she wants more – 30 to 40 would be ideal.

To drive the bus, you must have a car license and a First Aid Certificate. The committee will organise for you to acquire your First Aid Certificate, and there will be an induction session for knowledge of the bus modifications.

“The crux of it all is the volunteers are there for the day and give their time and care with joy,” she said.

Judy and the rest of the committee acknowledge that ‘The Hurley Bus’ project was helped considerably by some key people.

They would like to say a huge thank you to Neil Brown from Significant Signs, who is wrapping the bus free of charge, Ann Vardanega - for helping with media and giving good advice, Pat Lynch – bus expert, Tracey and Chris Castles – financial advice, and Tony Iafano who will provide bus maintenance.

‘The Hurley Bus’ is currently in Townsville being outfitted for its special use. Ingham Palliative Carers Committee expect it to be ready in early December.

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Ingham Palliative Carers Committee have purchased this bus to be used as ‘The Hurley Bus’. Image supplied

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