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The 2025 BIC Conference is all about unity – something the bus and coach industry is excelling at to ensure growth is never far away
It was all the way back in 1969 when The Beatles first released ‘Come Together’, calling for unity. In the years since this classic from the English band first hit the airwaves, in the same year as Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldren were walking on the moon, plenty has changed in the bus and coach industry. However, the need to call for cohesion and togetherness has never been stronger, particularly in Australia.
Since Varenya Mohan-Ram first took the helm of the Bus Industry Confederation on April 7 this year, his messaging has evoked the likes of Lennon, McCartney and co from yesteryear in calling for the local industry to band together and present a united front.
“It’s essential that we speak with just the one voice. We’re not a collection of disparate parts. Operators are the heart of the industry and we thank you for your tireless work, while our suppliers continue to overcome challenges,” he said upon first speaking as BIC’s new leader at the QBIC conference back in late April.
“Combined, the future of our industry will thrive if we collaborate.”
be reading this within the confines of Crown Perth, listening to the latest updates. Regardless, the topics covered in this magazine outline the most recent news, issues and new releases that are important to the sector. For a comprehensive guide to the multi-day event, head to page 21.
BYD is a key example of unity, having recently supplied new electric buses to the emerging Victorian force that is Dysons. In a whirlwind year, the family stalwart has won critical Metropolitan Zero-Emissions Bus Franchise contracts, broken ground on electrifying its Bundoora home base and put the call out for a capital partner to support its growth plans. Its growing partnership with BYD is allowing it to continue shooting for the stars, as can be seen from page 22.
The need to call for cohesion and togetherness has never been stronger
In his first BIC conference at the top of the industry body, the program and theme of unity suits his consistent message throughout his first year in the role. It comes at a pertinent time – whether it be local content debates, government regulations changing or intensifying discussions around how to decarbonise the sector, there are numerous challenges that could easily divide and conquer a weaker industry.
However, the combined feel and shared purpose driving the bus and coach industry is allowing it to remain resolute in Australia, with the results on display. Vehicles continue to be delivered at near-record pace, while innovation from suppliers is constant and exciting. Operators are finding ways to maintain their driver and skilled worker ranks while running efficient, safe and timely services each and every day.
It’s worth celebrating, and this year’s BIC Conference in Perth is the perfect chance to reflect and then reset to plan for another year of challenges, success and change.
By the time this October edition of ABC hits your hands, the conference will be well and truly upon the industry. You may even
Also while still in Melbourne, Volgren and international delegates from Marcopolo in Brazil headed to Port Melbourne last month to witness the unveiling of the exciting Marcopolo G8. Head to page 26 to see the massive new model. From page 32, Scania’s commitment to consistent quality is proving critical to the reshape underway at Victorian operator Panorama Coaches.
I was lucky to head to the home of McConnell Seats Australia last month to chat to the warm and charming character that is new national sales manager Mick Hall while recapping the career of stalwart Matt Arthur, as can be seen on page 36.
To finish off the month, alongside our usual array of content, head to page 48 for a recap of some of the biggest releases coming out of Busworld 2025 and what they mean for the local market.
Wherever you’re reading this, I hope you enjoy the edition and continue to unite and push for growth.
Sean Mortell EDITOR, ABC
06. editorial | ignition COMBINEANDTHRIVE
The 2025 BIC Conference is all about unity –something the bus and coach industry is excelling at to ensure growth is never far away
10. news | all aboard
Check out the latest news from around Australia and the world
features
21. column | bic ALLABOUTUNITY
Over two jam-packed days, the bus and coach industry will descend on Crown Perth to cover the latest innovations and topics impacting the sector
22. cover story | byd ALEGACYRECHARGED
In the wake of its 70th anniversary, Dyson Group made a raft of bold decisions. From searching for a capital partner to welcoming a new range of BYD electric buses, the family business is intent on leading the future of the bus and coach industry
26. feature | volgren LOCALLAUNCH
In mid-September, Volgren and Marcopolo unveiled the Marcopolo G8 coach at a launch event in Melbourne to more than 200 attendees
29. feature | challenger POWERINGTHEFUTURE
Challenger has been in the local bus and coach manufacturing scene for less than 10 years and is now preparing to take things to the next level in 2026 with the expansion of its electric vehicle range
32. feature | scania SCENICSUCCESS
Panorama Coaches is relying on its fleet of Scania A30 and Touring coach models to redirect towards more success in Melbourne’s north-east
36. feature | mcconnell CHANGINGGUARD
A beloved figure of McConnell Seats Australia is set to depart, with the seating supplier welcoming a well-known industry member to a new national role
38. feature | altro TRANSFORMINGINTERIORS
Altro has addressed a critical issue plaguing many flooring options in the Australasian bus industry through its new laminated logos and precision flooring kits
40. feature | bcc SPECIALSERVICES
BCC is leading the way in Australia’s north and west, with its unique range of HVAC solutions proving critical to running comfortable bus services in a range of climates
42. feature | wales NATIONALFORCE
A range of acquisitions, growth and industryleading partnerships is placing Wales ahead of the curve in Australia’s heavy vehicle repair market
44. feature | styleride REWARDINGRETURN
Plenty of hard work on its production processes and industry standing has seen StyleRide reinvent itself. Now, an exciting new range is allowing the supplier to launch into a new era
46. feature | royans REINFORCINGREPAIRREACH
Royans is sharpening its customer focus through new leadership, infrastructure investment and an expansion across the Tasman
48. recap | busworld
INTERNATIONALINNOVATION
The return of Busworld saw a range of leading global bus manufacturers showcase their latest innovations and tease exciting technology
51. competition | best bus BEAMMEDOWN
Robert Shelton’s unique Potter Travel shot by a special dish made for a Best Bus October winner that’s out of this world
54. factory facts | bus deliveries SEPTEMBERDELIVERIES
Check out the latest bus and coach supplier sales data collected and recorded for you to review and see how the market fared in September
58. back seat | lung bus LUNGLEGEND
After the original mobile service provided free lung screenings to more than 53,000 people, the unique second instalment of the lung bus is now hitting the road around regional NSW
Regina Fellner
EDITORIAL & DESIGN
Managing Editor: Geoff Crockett
e-mail: geoff.crockett@primecreative.com.au
Editor: Sean Mortell
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Designer: Apostolos Topatsis
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Transport for New South Wales has revealed which suppliers are involved in producing the landmark electric bus order for Sydney
Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW) has confirmed with ABC which suppliers will be providing the new order of 151 battery electric buses to bolster its Sydney fleet.
The NSW government first
The suppliers of the electric buses have been named. Image: Transport for NSW
announced the landmark electric bus order in late August, bringing the total number of new buses bought since March 2023 to 921.
At the time, TfNSW only named Custom Denning as one of the manufacturers involved in the order that will contribute to the conversion of key depots at Leichhardt and Kingsgrove.
TfNSW has since replied to ABC ’s queries of who else will supply the buses, saying that the chassis and body of each bus will be manufactured in NSW.
“We are continuing to build on our electric bus fleet, with the purchase of 151 more battery electric buses,” a TfNSW spokesperson told ABC.
“A key commitment of the ZEB program is the progressive introduction of local content, which is what we are doing.
“The 151 new battery electric buses Below:
will surpass the government’s 50 per cent target for local manufacturing content. The buses will be delivered by both Custom Denning and Volgren Australia.”
TfNSW says manufacturing and fit-out of the bus bodies produced by Volgren will be completed in Victoria, with BYD to supply the chassis.
NSW transport minister John Graham says this staged investment is crucial for both sustainability and commuter experience.
“This latest investment in new buses has us on an express route to 1,000 new buses since Labor came to government,” Graham says.
“The build-up of zero-emission buses is happening in a staged and sustainable way, with the obvious benefits for the environment and air quality complemented by enhanced passenger comfort levels on these quieter, smoother buses.”
TfNSW
has also confirmed which suppliers will produce the additional 50 bendy buses in the state, as well as 10 double decker diesel models
Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW) has confirmed who will supply the latest order of ‘bendy’ buses for the state.
In early September, TfNSW revealed 17 Northern Beaches articulated diesel buses are back on the road, with an order for more than 50 additional models being placed.
“Transport for NSW is addressing shortages of buses in Greater Sydney by procuring 50 additional high-capacity articulated diesel buses and 10 high-capacity double deck diesel buses, while also prioritising repairs to existing buses, while continuing the rollout of Battery Electric Buses (BEBs),” a Transport for NSW spokesperson told ABC
capacity and deliver reliable public transport for Greater Sydney.”
ABC asked TfNSW who will supply the buses, with it confirming that the 50 diesel articulated ‘bendy’ buses have been ordered from Scania Australia.
bodies manufactured by Volgren Australia.
TfNSW also confirmed the 10 double decker buses ordered are from Volvo Bus Australia.
The
Bus Industry Confederation has unveiled a new initiative to design and install safety screens on Queensland buses
that is set to lower bus driver safety incidents
The Bus Industry Confederation (BIC) has launched a new initiative in Queensland to simplify the design and installation of safety screens on buses and coaches in a bid to improve bus driver safety.
The new initiative is designed to ultimately provide a safer workplace for bus drivers, following collaborative efforts between regulators and industry.
The move is timely, with several recent violent incidents directed at bus drivers in south-east Queensland including one on the Sunshine Coast where a bus driver sustained a knife injury and was hospitalised. The attack is indicative of an increase in passenger antisocial behaviour across major capital cities like Brisbane, Melbourne, Darwin and Hobart, with calls from industry for improved safety.
Fitment of driver safety screens follows a complex set of laws and regulations, with some cases requiring government-issued exemptions.
This latest initiative, comprising the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator Driver Safety Screen Exemption notice, will enable modifications by an approved vehicle examiner where exemptions are required, streamlining compliance and ensuring safety standards are maintained.
“This proactive measure ensures
that bus manufacturers, modifiers, owners and operators can undertake essential vehicle modifications without compromising the stringent safety standards that govern heavy vehicles,” National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) director of policy implementation Peter Austin says.
“The driver safety screen collaboration, led by industry, demonstrates how industry and the regulator can work together to continuously improve driver and transport safety.”
Supporting technical guidance materials developed by BIC along with testing and trials by Brisbane City Council’s Public Transport Services Group underpin this.
Current data across Australia shows a surge in verbal abuse, physical threats and violent assaults, with serious implications on driver wellbeing, passenger safety and the sustainability of public transport services. Physical attacks on bus drivers rose 80 per cent between 2017 and 2025, while verbal abuse rising 184 per cent in some states.
“These aren’t just statistics – these are real people being put at real risk while providing an essential service to our communities,” BIC executive director Varenya Mohan-Ram says.
“The bus and coach industry’s
commitment to improving the workplace of our drivers has played a leading role in the development of this initiative.”
Inspired by positive results seen in London, this Queensland-led collaboration has looked at the issues wholistically, with considerations including site lines, reflection, technology and other safety standards to ensure a world leading safety solution that significantly reduces risk to bus drivers. This innovative solution and exemption notice is the first step to ensure standards are set globally.
The development of driver safety screen guidance is a landmark achievement in the ongoing effort to protect bus drivers and improve safety across public transport.
“This is about keeping our bus drivers safe while they’re doing their job serving the community,” Brisbane Transport civic cabinet chair Councillor Wines says.
“It’s taken a huge team effort from council staff to industry and regulators to deliver a practical solution that will make a real difference. Every new bus we put on the road will now come fitted with a driver safety screen.
“Other states are already following our lead, and that shows just how important this initiative is.”
After discovering the state is underinvesting in bus services, further documents reveal Victorian Cabinet rejected widescale bus reform recommended by the Department of Transport in 2023
Following the recent handing down of documents that revealed the Victorian government was underinvesting in the state’s bus services compared to all other Australian jurisdictions, further documents released last month show that the state Cabinet rejected bus reform plans in 2023.
Around 2,000 pages of material related to the review of Victoria’s Bus Plan were handed down by the government, showing that significant bus reform was recommended by the Department of Transport and rejected by Cabinet two years ago.
The released documents were first requested last year by Upper House member for Western Metro Truung Luu, showing that the department had recommended a new bus network with buses running every 10 minutes on a 1.6km grid throughout the city, supported by some local routes.
This suggestion aligned with Melbourne University research that said bus routes like this are affordable and can create a fast, frequent and reliable service to connect suburban Melburnians to train lines.
The papers make it clear that Labor’s Cabinet rejected transformational bus reform that would bring life-changing new services to Melbourne’s fastest growing suburbs, in favour of ‘big build’ projects.
Advocacy group Sustainable
reveal Cabinet ignored calls for bus reform. Image: Victoria’s Big Build
say communities in the west have been angry for years over the lack of action on Labor’s bus plan, which was first touted in 2021 by then public transport minister Ben Carroll with the promise of restructuring and simplifying bus services.
Communities in Melbourne’s west have been advocating for a fast, frequent and connected grid of buses to replace the current broken network. Existing slow, winding bus services leave people waiting up to an hour for a bus that rarely gets them where they need to go.
Local bus activist Senthill Sundaram says these same communities have expressed growing frustration at the lack of action and accountability, with the department, government and bus companies all pointing the finger at one another for why network reform wasn’t happening, according to the plan’s timeline.
“We finally know why we don’t have 10-minute frequencies on fast direct routes – it’s the Labor Cabinet,” Sundaram says.
“It’s not that it’s expensive or impractical, in fact they were flooded with evidence that better buses are the answer. If their own department is putting forward the solution, why is Victorian Labor rejecting the Bus Plan?”
The many documents released also
placed into research benefits, including the impact of reform on community safety and amenity, women’s safety and benefits to disabled Victorians.
Department research also indicated most Melbournians would be willing to walk a little further for a more frequent and direct service, and that Victoria has the lowest per capita investment in bus service in the country.
“The government owes the community an explanation for rejecting common-sense improvements. Blaming contracts, operators, or timing is not good enough,” Sundaram says.
“People in the west, in particular, deserve to know why they’re still waiting for the network they were promised while other big build projects pass them by.”
University of Melbourne honorary senior fellow and author of the ‘Better Buses for Melbourne’s West’ report Dr John Stone says it’s “deeply frustrating” that reform was ignored.
“It is long past time that the government followed the advice of its own planners and a host of independent experts,” Stone says.
“The government must act now and give the people of the west what they desperately need: a fast, frequent grid network.”
People stepping out in front of a vehicle is a recurring type of accident in city traffic.
That’s why Volvo Buses has developed Collision Warning with City Brake. It’s a new chapter in active safety for city buses, designed in cooperation with research institutes and Transport for London, as a means to reduce bus traffic accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists.
How it works? The system detects a pedestrian in front of the bus and calculates the risk for an accident. Unless the driver brakes, the system reacts instantly warns and applies a balanced brake force, protecting the pedestrian while minimising risk for standing passengers inside. Just another example of how we keep moving towards our vision of Zero Accidents.
Contact your Volvo Buses represenative to find out more. Volvo Buses
The Victorian operator has secured a two-year extension with Metro Trains Melbourne to deliver rail replacement services across the north-west
Dysons has secured a two-year extension to operate Metro Trains Melbourne’s (MTM) Rail Replacement services across the city’s north-west. The agreement continues a partnership that has supported the network for more than two decades.
The contract covers both planned project works and business-as-usual operations, ensuring replacement bus services remain in place during rail disruptions and major upgrades. Dysons has played a key role
in keeping passengers moving during some of Victoria’s largest infrastructure projects, including Level Crossing Removal works, the Metro Tunnel program and major maintenance shutdowns across the rail network.
Dysons CEO Andrew Jakab says the extension reflects confidence in the company’s ability to deliver.
“Feedback from the Metro team on our tender response was very strong, and we look forward to fulfilling their confidence in us over the next two
years,” Jakab says.
He adds that the focus will remain on passenger experience.
“Our team is committed to delivering seamless passenger experiences and continuing our long-standing contribution to Melbourne’s public transport network,” he says.
With more than 20 years of rail replacement operations, Dysons will continue to support network reliability while upgrade works proceed across the state.
Victorian bus users faced widespread disruption as more than 600 CDC drivers went on strike for a fifth time, with no resolution in sight
Victorian bus passengers had to again brace for disruption last month as more than 600 CDC Victoria drivers walked off the job for 24 hours, marking the fifth stoppage since May.
Services across Ballarat, Mildura, Oakleigh, Wyndham Vale, Sunshine, Tullamarine and Geelong were significantly affected, leaving many commuters searching for alternatives. The strikes have become a familiar frustration for thousands who rely on buses as their primary mode of transport.
TWU director of organising Sam Lynch says workers have been left with no choice.
“Striking is always a worker’s last resort,” Lynch says. “These operators take millions in taxpayer subsidies while keeping drivers on low wages and rosters that are not up to scratch.
TWU members have spoken loud and clear: we will not accept crumbs while overseas shareholders cash in.”
The union says the most recent proposal from CDC Victoria failed to meet expectations on wages and rostering, with 84 per cent of workers voting it down. Lynch says the solution
is within reach.
“CDC can end this dispute tomorrow by increasing drivers’ pay, and making improvements to rostering and meal break conditions that meet drivers’ expectations,” Lynch says.
For passengers, the ongoing dispute meant more cancelled services and uncertainty about how long the stand-off will last. The TWU has warned that further strike action cannot be ruled out if CDC does not
return to the bargaining table with a stronger offer.
CDC Victoria has responded, saying it is working hard to minimise the impact, while some of the bus service disruptions are “unfortunately unavoidable”.
“It is worth noting the context in which this action is being contemplated,” a CDC Victoria spokesperson told ABC
“On September 5, 2025, with the support of the TWU Bargaining Committee, CDC Victoria opened the voting period for all drivers for the proposed CDC Victoria Enterprise Agreement.
“Unfortunately, CDC Victoria’s offer of a guaranteed 13 per cent wage increase over three years, with the fourth year at the same indexation of the company’s contracts, was voted down. This was a fair and compelling offer to provide wage certainty to our employees. The offer also compared favourably with key economic indicators, including a CPI increase of 11 per cent and a 10 per cent rise in the National Minimum Wage over the past three years.”
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BYD is leading the way in reaching the global electric bus milestone as it marked the occasion with a maiden delivery of its latest model in Europe
Major global new energy vehicle and battery manufacturer BYD has delivered its 5,000th electric bus in Europe.
The landmark achievement makes BYD the first OEM to reach this milestone in the region. The vehicle was delivered to Umove, a major public transport operator in Denmark. This milestone vehicle is also the first BYD eBus B12.b to be delivered in Europe, marking a significant step forward in sustainable public transportation.
The official handover ceremony took place in Roskilde and was attended by representatives from both BYD and Umove, including Annelise Arboe Sommer, CEO of Umove A/S; BYD Europe managing director of commercial vehicle business centre Henry Zhang and Javier Contijoch, E-Bus Sales VP at BYD Europe.
The manufacturer says the BYD eBus B12.b is a groundbreaking
integrated with CTC (Cell to Chassis) technology, specifically tailored for the European market.
With a battery capacity of 491kWh, it offers a remarkable range of up to 600km on a single charge and can accommodate up to 105 passengers. Each battery cell pack functions as a structural beam, enhancing torsional stiffness while lowering both vehicle weight and the centre of gravity.
The innovative design also reduces battery space usage by 50 per cent and cuts overall vehicle weight by 10 per cent, resulting in improved range and greater energy efficiency.
The BYD eBus B12.b will soon join Umove’s fleet and operate in Copenhagen. In addition to the B12.b, other BYD pure-electric bus models, such as the BYD eBus K9UD, will also be integrated into Umove’s operations, offering passengers across Denmark a quiet, smooth and eco-friendly travel experience. These efforts further accelerate the
commitment to a sustainable future.
“We are delighted to celebrate the delivery of BYD’s 5,000th electric bus in Europe – an important milestone that underscores our continued dedication to accelerating the transition to electric public transport across the continent,” BYD executive vice president Stella Li says.
“It is a pleasure to share this moment with Umove, a valued partner whose dedication to sustainable mobility aligns perfectly with BYD’s vision. We are proud to support their efforts in delivering innovative and sustainable mobility solutions. Together, we are driving the transformation toward a sustainable future in Denmark and throughout Europe.”
Umove A/S CEO Annelise Arboe Sommer says the eBus B12.b is more than a milestone.
“With our growing partnership with BYD, Umove is proud to expand sustainable public
The operator will nearly double its operations with the new Tampines contract, rolling out one of Asia’s largest zero-emissions bus fleets
Singapore’s public transport network is set for a major shake-up, with Go-Ahead Group securing the Tampines Bus Package in a landmark contract with the Land Transport Authority (LTA).
From mid-2026, Go-Ahead Singapore will take on 27 routes operating out of the new East Coast Bus Depot in Tampines. The five-year deal, extendable for another five, almost doubles the company’s footprint in Singapore.
The contract also delivers one of Asia’s largest electric bus fleets, with more than 250 zero-emission vehicles forming part of a 400-bus operation. This will expand Go-Ahead’s local workforce to over 2,000 colleagues and grow its total fleet to more than 800 buses.
Go-Ahead Bus CEO Matt Carney says the milestone reflects both growth and responsibility.
“Next year marks 10 years since Go-Ahead began operating in Singapore, and we’re delighted to celebrate this milestone by growing our business,” Carney says.
“As a leader in sustainable transport, we’re proud to support the Land Transport Authority’s transition to zero-emission transport and to provide reliable, punctual and sustainable bus services to more customers.”
Since entering Singapore in 2016, Carney says Go-Ahead has built a reputation for innovation, including introducing the country’s first zero-emission bus and testing ultra-thin solar panels on vehicles.
He says its new fleet will strengthen Singapore’s clean transport agenda while improving service efficiency.
Go-Ahead Singapore managing director Leonard Lee says the contract represents a turning point.
“This is an exciting step forward for Go-Ahead Singapore,” Lee says.
“We are grateful to the Land Transport Authority for placing their
the NTWU to ensure a seamless transition for affected employees.”
Beyond its fleet expansion, Go-Ahead Singapore will introduce a Satellite Centre of Excellence to develop skills in electric bus operations and maintenance. The centre will use artificial intelligence to support energy efficiency and safety, building long-term industry expertise.
Passengers can also expect more inclusive journeys, with initiatives ranging from community spaces at bus interchanges to “baby on board” badges for expectant mothers.
Over two jam-packed days, the bus and coach industry will descend on Crown Perth to cover the latest innovations and topics impacting the sector
By the time you’re reading this, the Australian bus and coach industry’s largest event for 2025 will be upon us in the form of the BIC National Conference.
Hosted by Crown Perth, the two-day event will be held under a banner of togetherness, with the conference theme being ‘unity, collaboration and harmonisation’. Fundamental to our strength is unity, as it’s only through a united front that the sector can advance from follower to leader in the national conversation.
This event is set to be more important than ever: policymakers will debate the future of public transport, infrastructure, environment policies, industry harmonisation and economic recovery. The future lies in collaboration – together we form a comprehensive ecosystem that thrives when we join forces.
The two-day program will cover industry reform, safety, the latest on zero-emissions buses and associated infrastructure, industrial relations, workforce, finance and other upto-the-minute issues impacting the sector.
Following the Volvo welcome reception on Wednesday October 29, the conference is opened on October 30 with a welcome from BIC executive director Varenya Mohan-Ram. Noongar Elder Walter Macguire will perform Welcome to Country, while BIC chair Anthony Hopkins will kickstart the conference.
From there, federal transport and infrastructure minister Catherine King will provide a government address, as will Western Australian minister assisting the minister for transport Jessica Stojkovski from a state perspective, while National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) CEO Nicole Rosie will offer an update from the regulator. Finally, four time world
champion boxer Danny Green will deliver a keynote speech to wrap up the morning’s proceedings.
In the unity session, Mohan-Ram is back to provide an update from BIC on current and future affairs, before a panel involving QBIC executive director Jason O’Dwyer, TasBus general manager Luke Doyle, Bus SA executive director Craig Spurr, BusNSW executive director Matt Threlkeld and West Coast Bus Charters operations manager Natalie Gough will discuss state and federal unification for the industry.
In the afternoon, the health and safety session will start with consultant John Lee chairing conversations that include Volvo Buses head of safety Thomas Forsberg, Santegis director Anthony Ndaira, Steering Healthy Minds national coordinator Emma Flynn, EML workplace safety and risk principal Keith Govias and TeamSuper executive manager of employer experience Tony Cuda. The session ranges from workplace health and safety to mental health, work health and financial health.
The final session on the opening day is all about harmonisation, with BIC/APTIA national industrial relations manager Kirsten Jongsma opening with a chat about multi-bargaining enterprise agreements alongside QBIC’s Jason O’Dwyer, TWU WA
Below: The year’s biggest industr y event will soon get underway in Perth.
Image: Prime Creative Media
branch secretary Tim Dawson and Fair Work Commission deputy president Melanie Binet. Following this, Kinetic Group executive general manager of people and safety Madonna Hegerty will join Navigate Work managing director Nikki Britt, KINNECT chief operating officer Amanda Johnston and KINNECT chief medical officer Dr Matthew Brandt to discuss fit for work topics.
In the aftermath of the Irizar/Scania evening gala event that includes the presentation of the 2025 national industry awards, the agenda on Friday October 31 starts with a discussion on power. AI researcher Gihan Perera is a guest speaker on being fit for the future, while INIT SE’s business development director Paul Gwynn talks about AI in public transport. The likes of EnergyAustralia’s Jack Kotlyar, KPMG’s Michael Gunner and Curtin University’s Professor Peta Ashworth will all join in discussions about future power and policy.
Finally, the collaboration session will include the likes of Counsel House’s Kieren Ash, Piper Alderman’s Maria Capati, Pitcher Partner’s David Fennell and Trapeze Group’s David Eason talking about government contracts and tenders before delegates split into either a training and technology session or an innovation session in what is set to be a busy two days for the industry.
In the wake of its 70th anniversary, Dyson Group made a raft of bold decisions. From searching for a capital partner to welcoming a new range of BYD electric buses, Sean Mortell reports the family business is intent on leading the future of the industry
Iarrive at Dysons’ main depot in the heart of Bundoora on a crisp Melbourne spring morning, with the sun shining but the air yet to warm. I’m on my way to see the unveiling of the very first BYD electric bus delivered to the Dyson Group as part of the new Melbourne Metropolitan Zero Emissions Franchise (MZF) established by the state government.
The first thing I notice is that the soundscape at Dysons’ Bundoora depot is changing. In years past, the home base of the operator used to roar with the noise of diesel engines
parking and taking off on their routes. On this morning, the site hums with the activity of builders, electricians and planners laying the foundations for a new era in zero-emissions buses. For more than seven decades, Dysons has been a household name in Victoria and southern New South Wales. Family owned and proud of its heritage, the company has built a reputation on reliability, service and a strong community presence. Its fleet of hundreds of buses connects students to schools, commuters to workplaces and families to communities across regional and
Above: From L to R: Mark Brown, Steve Glenny, Brad Dyson, Andrew Jakab, Jon Tozer, Nigel Rowell, Chris Wood and Hayden Matthews
metropolitan areas.
After reaching its 70th anniversary in late 2022, the family operator has been through a period of change. It was in the same year that it appointed Andrew Jakab as its first external CEO and managing director. Now, in the wake of its fresh beginnings courtesy of the MZF contract, Dysons is reimagining what the next 70 years will look like.
Founded in the 1950s, Dysons has grown from a small suburban operator to one of Australia’s largest private bus companies. With more than 1,200 staff and a fleet of 611
vehicles spread across 12 full-service depots, the company is a critical part of the Victorian transport system.
Contracts with the Victorian and NSW governments and a wide range of school and charter clients have given Dysons the stability and reach to realise its ambitious growth strategy.
What’s key to its growth? According to its leader, what sets Dysons apart is not just its scale, but its values.
“We have always been a values-driven family business first,” Jakab told ABC
“Our success is tied to the communities we serve and we know our responsibility is to adapt so those communities can thrive into the future.”
That adaptation is well underway, particularly at its home base.
The Bundoora depot, Dysons’ headquarters and flagship depot, is undergoing one of the most ambitious electrification projects in the Southern Hemisphere.
High-capacity chargers, grid upgrades and future-proofed infrastructure are being installed to support an incoming wave of battery electric buses.
To help fund this transformation and future growth, Dysons has appointed advisers to seek a strategic
greater battery capacity (382kWh), longer life, increased warranty and a reduced tare weight than the previous model. These are the first of more than 168 electric buses that will enter the operator’s Melbourne network over the next nine years.
For drivers, mechanics and passengers alike, the change is significant. BYD training programs are already underway to familiarise all staff with the new technology, while maintenance teams are preparing workshops for the unique requirements of electric vehicles. The environmental impact is equally striking, with the removal of diesel engines cutting emissions and contributing to Victoria’s net-zero 2045 targets.
It’s all part of Dysons’ ambitious plans to excel as a leader in Victoria, NSW and beyond. In an operating industry increasingly dominated by multinational players like Kinetic and CDC, Dysons’ move into large scale electrification signals more than just compliance – it’s a statement.
“Electrification is often seen as the territory of big global operators,” Jakab says.
“But we are proving that a
family-owned business can innovate and lead just as strongly. What we may lack in scale is made up by our connection to our communities and a track record of safely and reliably delivering for government and passengers.”
Jakab says industry observers agree that Dysons’ strategic investment in depot electrification and its move to introduce electric buses puts it firmly in the conversation with its larger competitors, reiterating its move to position itself at the forefront of zero-emissions bus technology.
While the headlines focus on infrastructure and technology, Jakab says Dysons is keen to point out the human impact of its transition.
For passengers, the benefits are immediate: cleaner air, quieter rides and modern vehicles. For staff, the transition brings opportunities in training, upskilling and new career pathways, particularly for apprentices and younger workers entering the transport industry.
“Electrification is not just about buses,” he says.
“It is about creating jobs, building skills and making sure metropolitan and regional communities have
access to the best transport technology available.”
He’s adamant that the Bundoora project is just the start of the operator’s future plans. Dysons will welcome electric buses to its stateof-the-art site in Shepparton in this financial year and will also continue to trial electric vehicles on behalf of Transport for NSW at its Deniliquin depot in southern NSW.
Partnerships with energy providers, depot developers and vehicle manufacturers will underpin this shift, while the search for a capital partner will provide the support needed to accelerate investment and innovation.
For Dysons, the future is not about leaving behind its legacy but building upon it. The grit and determination that carried the company from a handful of buses in the suburbs a bit over 70 years ago to now being one of the nation’s largest private operators are the same qualities driving its leap into the electric age.
“A company built on diesel grease is now gearing up for the quiet hum of electric,” Jakab says.
“That is the future we are building – one that honours our past while embracing the opportunities ahead.”
Designing and Manufacturing seats in Australia for over 60 years
McConnell is the largest designer and manufacturer of transport seating in Australia.
Achieving this level of success while remaining a locally operated company is a testament to the quality of our product and the integrity and service of our dedicated team.
In mid-September, Volgren and Marcopolo unveiled the Marcopolo G8 coach at a launch event in Melbourne to more than 200 attendees
The much-anticipated Marcopolo G8 has officially been introduced to the Australian market during a prestigious launch event at The Timber Yard, Port Melbourne. The event, attended by more than 200 industry leaders, showcased the latest in coach design and innovation, including both the two-axle and three-axle versions of the G8.
As part of the event, Volgren celebrated its first customer to purchase the G8, Australia Wide Coaches, presenting them with a special congratulatory award in recognition of their trust and commitment to the newest generation of world-class coach transport.
The launch featured presentations from Marcopolo headquarters senior executives, including Marcopolo global CEO Andre Vidal Armaganijan, Marcopolo engineering director Luciano Resner and Marcopolo international business director Jose Goes, who shared their deep expertise on the product concept and technological advancements of the Marcopolo G8. Their
insights highlighted the meticulous engineering and quality that have gone into creating a vehicle designed to offer superior comfort, safety and operational efficiency.
“The launch of the Marcopolo G8 in Australia is a proud moment for both Volgren and the Marcopolo Group,” Volgren CEO Thiago Deiro says.
“This coach represents not only the very best in global design and engineering, but also our commitment to bringing world-class
Below:
The Australia Wide Coaches team were recognised for buying the first G8 in Australia
products to the Australian market. The G8 sets a new benchmark for safety, comfort and efficiency.”
Following the technical presentations, Volgren’s CCO and head of strategy Yuri Tessari, alongside national sales manager Guilherme Batista Ferreira, provided an overview of the strategic background and opportunities the G8 brings to the Australian market. They discussed how this groundbreaking product aligns with
the country’s evolving transport needs and the potential it holds for revolutionising the coach industry, both for passenger comfort and sustainable operations.
“The Marcopolo G8 that we are launching in Australia is the result of significant investment and collaboration to develop a coach specifically adapted to local standards and regulations,” Tessari says.
“This is not simply a direct import of an overseas model – it’s a tailor-made solution for Australian operators, designed to meet their unique requirements while maintaining the global quality and innovation that defines Marcopolo. By doing so, we are ensuring the G8 delivers real value and long-term benefits to the Australian coach industry.
“We are also investing heavily in enhancing our aftersales support through Volgren service centres, ensuring rapid response and parts availability across Australia – we’re confident that the G8 will exceed operator expectations.”
In the coming months, Volgren and Marcopolo will take the G8 on a national tour, making stops at various Volgren facilities across Australia for soft-launch events. These will provide an opportunity for customers, staff
and other stakeholders who couldn’t attend the official launch to engage with the product, experience its features first-hand and learn about its capabilities directly from the experts. These events will help to further promote the G8 and solidify its position in the Australian market.
Tessari says Volgren is also pleased to announce that the Marcopolo G8 is now open for orders. With physical stock available from January 2026, deliveries will commence shortly thereafter. Operators and customers looking to secure their G8 coaches can now place orders to ensure they
are among the first to receive this state-of-the-art vehicle.
“The launch event has been a fantastic opportunity to showcase that we are ready to strengthen our presence in the coach and charter market, working closely with chassis manufacturers to offer our customers a short delivery timeframe,” Volgren national sales manager Guilherme
“We are proud to have Volvo as a trusted partner since day one of this project and delighted to see Australia Wide Coaches as the first customer to embrace this new era of premium
The event was a celebration of the collaboration between Volgren and Marcopolo, reflecting both companies’ commitment to delivering innovative, high-quality transport solutions. Attendees were able to explore the G8 up close, engaging with industry experts and gaining a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle’s capabilities.
As the Marcopolo G8 begins its journey in Australia, it is poised to become a key player in the coach industry, offering both state-of-the-art features and unmatched operational reliability.
For more details or commercial enquiries, please contact one of our sales executives or refer to the contact information below: Phone: (03) 9791 4255
Email: info@volgren.com.au
Website: www.volgren.com.au
Challenger has been in the local bus and coach manufacturing scene for less than 10 years and is now preparing to take things to the next level in 2026 with the expansion of its electric vehicle range
It may already feel like a mainstay in the Australian bus and coach market, but Challenger Bus and Coach has only been operating since 2017. From day one, the company has built its reputation on quality manufacturing and customerfocused service – an approach that has been key to its rapid rise.
Now, less than a decade since designing and building its first buses, Challenger has taken the bold step into the electric sphere.
Challenger’s first electric bus was unveiled at the 2024 National Bus and Coach Show in Brisbane, where the new low-floor EV model drew industry-wide attention. It marked a turning point for the brand, reflecting
its awareness of shifting market needs and its ability to adapt quickly to customer demand.
As with all Challenger products, customer input shaped the development of its electric models.
Operators wanted a bus that could transition seamlessly into a zero-emissions fleet while still delivering the quality, reliability and performance that Challenger has become known for.
“Launching the 12-metre electric bus at the National Bus and Coach Show last year was a pivotal moment,” Challenger sales manager Dan Campbell told ABC
“It gave us a platform to showcase our latest technology and connect with customers who are ready to move into
the zero-emissions future.”
These vehicles are now ready-made electric solutions, ideal for governments, schools and operators seeking to tender for zero-emissions services. With the Australasian market turning towards electrification, Challenger’s EV models give operators a trusted pathway towards a greener future.
Since that launch, Challenger has already confirmed deliveries of its first electric buses to Victorian customers. But this is just the beginning. In 2026, the company will offer an expanded electric line-up, including new battery electric versions of its flagship V12 coach and the popular dynamic Callibar model.
compact yet robust build, filling a clear market need for a smaller-sized bus that didn’t compromise on Challenger’s hallmark quality.
“There was a definite gap in the market,” Campbell says.
“The Callibar has been received exceptionally well, and the move to an electric version will only strengthen its appeal.”
By the end of 2026, operators will be able to choose between three fully electric Challenger models –the low-floor city bus, the Callibar and the V12 coach – each designed and engineered to suit Australian conditions. Challenger has exclusively partnered with an Australian electric engine manufacturer, and these locally owned, designed and patented engines will be shaping the future of Challenger’s electric vehicle range.
“Electrification in buses has advanced rapidly, with new technologies such as solid-state batteries and stronger charging infrastructure on the horizon,”
greater choice while helping them transition confidently towards a more sustainable future.”
This evolution will reach its peak at the 2026 Bus and Coach Show in Sydney, where Challenger plans to unveil two more additions: a
Below: Innovations to the Callibar aren’t far away
three-axle coach and a 4WD version of the Callibar. Designed with mining operators and regional tour providers in mind, the 4WD Callibar will open entirely new opportunities for customers in Western Australia, Queensland and beyond.
“The industry has been waiting for these, and we can’t wait to show how they complement our expanding range of quality-built vehicles,” Fagg says.
By the time of the Expo, Challenger will have grown its fleet to eight distinct models — a remarkable achievement for a manufacturer in under a decade. Yet through all this innovation, Challenger remains focused on the principles that set it apart: quality, customer service and a willingness to listen to operators’ needs.
“Our role is not just to keep pace with change but to lead it. From electrification to new models designed for the toughest environment,” Fagg says.
“At Challenger, we know operators value reliability, service and choice. That’s why every step of our growth – from expanding into electric to introducing specialised models like the 4WD Callibar – has been about meeting real-world needs.
“We’re focused on delivering vehicles that work as hard as our customers do, backed by service and support they can count on.”
At Wales Heavy Vehicle, we’re known for precision, reliability, and performance. Our bus repair experts understand the demands of passenger transport — from major overhauls to fast, dependable repairs. With state-of-the-art facilities, and skilled technicians, we minimise downtime so your fleet stays on the move.
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Panorama Coaches is relying on its fleet of Scania A30 and Touring coach models to redirect towards more success in Melbourne’s north-east
For many parents around the world, it’s the question that keeps them up at night. It ensures frowns stay on and a crease of doubt appears most mornings. ‘Is my child getting to school safely?’
For parents and students based in Melbourne’s north-eastern suburbs, Panorama Coaches has been a comforting assurance, completing both private and governmentcontracted school runs each and every day. A key reason behind Panorama Coaches’ success in the area is the safety technology it uses on every school run.
Panorama Coaches, part of the
Dineen Group, currently provides 85 private and government-contracted school runs twice daily and also deploys 420 bus movements per day on charter, utilising its fleet of more than 130 buses.
Of this fleet, 45 are Scania vehicles, comprising 23 Scania Tourings and 10 Scania-Higer A30s, five Irizar i6s, as well as a smattering of Scania chassis with local bodies, most inherited over time from amalgamation or take overs of smaller businesses. A batch of 15 new Tourings are expected to join the Dineen Group fleet before the end of the year, with several earmarked for Panorama Coaches. It all comes as Panorama Coaches redirects
Above:
As Panorama Coaches pivots its operations, Scania remains key
its government-contracted route business towards its bread and butter on the school side.
“We said goodbye to our route work and very quickly turned the page to a new chapter of growth. We put 19 route buses on the market a year ago, and most have been sold, the ones we’ll keep will be used for rail replacement work and so on,” Panorama Coaches long-time general manager John Griffiths told ABC
“Then we looked at growing the school runs, and we were fortunate enough to pick up three more government schools and purchase two depots in Northern Victoria. We took over one of those on the
first of July this year and another in the first half of August, adding 17 government-contracted school runs to the business.”
Griffiths says his loyalty to Scania is all about the bus brand’s ability to provide products that make running complex school services simpler and more efficient.
“Another side of our business is buying and selling fleet. We turn over about eight per cent of vehicles a year to maintain our average age, so about 10-12 a year, aside from new contracts. Our choice, and that of Dineen Group, is to go with Scania,” Griffiths says.
“Traditionally in the group we have had a selection of European chassis. But most definitely for the last few years we’ve been very much going to the Scania product, the Scania-Higer A30 and Scania Touring. They’re very, very suitable for the work.
“Most definitely the A30 has proven to be an excellent local school bus, with 57 seats, good air
conditioning, seat belts and good fuel economy – it’s easy to drive and very popular with the drivers. They love driving them.”
Scania has also received a thumbs up from former Panorama Coaches driver and now workshop manager Peter Cuthbert.
“The A30s have plenty of power. They started with 310hp but now are 320hp and, with the recent upgrade of the drivers area, the dash console in particular has made them much more appealing to drive,” he says.
“The A30s are great for the jobs we do. You know, we can do a hockey job or a tennis job with sports bags and the like. But when you do a job where there’s more luggage, you need a bigger underfloor storage area, like that of the Touring.”
The Dineen Group was first offered the Scania Touring product back in 2019, with the operator quickly realising the larger bins suited its needs to a tee.
“It was a more modern design, too.
The Scania and the Higer marriage sounded pretty good to us,” Griffiths says.
“We bought five Tourings in 2019, having bought one A30 from another Dineen Group member, Berwick Bus Lines, in 2016 as a toe-in-the-water, and then we’ve bought nothing else but that since 2019. We also have got five Scania chassis under the Irizar i6 body, and had a few older Scanias on North Coast chassis, dating back to 2004 that have since been sold.”
The Scania concept of offering the market a Scania from bumper-tobumper was met with quick approval at Panorama Coaches.
“From a maintenance point of view, that’s hugely appealing, and having a dealership just 35 minutes away that handles both chassis and body, with parts, maintenance and warranty all in the one place is a huge selling point for us,” Cuthbert says.
“Some other brands have chassis parts on one side of town and body parts on the other side of town, so we
A beloved figure of McConnell Seats Australia is set to depart, with the seating supplier welcoming a well-known industry member to a new national role
In the local bus and coach scene, it’s difficult to get very far into a conversation without the mention of McConnell. Since 1952, the Victorian based supplier has been at the forefront of bus and coach seats in Australia.
With this reputation comes longstanding members of the industry who represent the McConnell name. Since 2007, Matt Arthur has been a popular feature of the local bus scene and a stalwart at McConnell Seats.
Now, as he prepares to enter retirement, the seating supplier has appointed another well-known member of the industry to fill his shoes.
“Matt’s been a stalwart of the industry and has gone over and above for McConnell for many years,” McConnell general manager James Lowe told ABC
“We’re very sad to see him depart, but grateful he’ll remain connected to the business as he transitions out.”
In the space of 18 years, Arthur has witnessed plenty of change both in the wider industry and also within the four walls of McConnell. When he started back in 2007, the seating supplier was still family owned and orientated as the second generation of the McConnell family led the business.
In 2014, APM Automotive Group bought the business, heralding a new era of leadership for the Broadmeadows-based company.
“At that time, the operators were all family run businesses, much like us suppliers,” Arthur told ABC
“I’ve been able to see that transition and develop lifelong friendships along the way. It’s been an honour.”
In the lead-up to Arthur’s departure from McConnell, the business has been proactive to find his replacement. Stepping in as the supplier’s new national sales manager is Mick Hall.
Hall is well-known to many in the local industry, having been elected to the council of the Bus Industry Confederation (BIC) in 2023 while also serving most recently as the national transport business development manager for United Safety.
“The motivation for me was to go from a smaller tier supplier in the bus industry to a major third party supplier in the sector in McConnell,” Hall told ABC
“The opportunity to work for an Australian made and manufactured company was enticing, and I know from suppliers in the industry that McConnell is the ‘bee’s knees’ of the seating market due to its quality build and aftersales support.
“I thought it was the right time to get an opportunity to experience the bus industry in a different capacity.”
Hall has been in the local bus sector for eight years – while that may seem like a lengthy stint in many other industries, within the family-feel of the bus market, it makes Hall still a
relative newcomer. Despite this, he’s been able to work with plenty around the industry and develop friendships across suppliers and operators that will hold him in good stead at McConnell.
“Being at McConnell now, you’re in everyone’s space, and it makes for a great opportunity to expand my relationships,” he says.
“I’m not just a passionate bus enthusiast but also someone who has lived and been around a lot, so I know how to treat people and bring my knowledge to enhance brands. I can’t wait to do this with McConnell and I’m grateful for the faith they have put in me.”
Hall’s appointment has seen a new role created, with the seating business introducing its very first national sales manager. Previously, Arthur led the Victorian sales team that also encompassed sales in Tasmania, South Australia and Western Australia, while Darcy Grant covered Queensland and New South Wales.
With Hall on board, he’ll take a
more national approach, bringing his experience from similar roles to the table for the seating supplier.
“I already know a lot of people around Australia’s bus industry, plus I look forward to getting to know more people in New Zealand,” Hall says.
“McConnell is on everyone’s lips, and being able to see the production schedules has made me very excited about what the future holds.”
For McConnell, replacing a popular industry stalwart in Arthur is never easy, but the process has been made more comforting with the arrival of Hall.
“We thought Mick was a very good fit personality wise – McConnell runs like a family business and Mick exhibits all of the traits we like our employees to have,” Lowe says.
“He’s family orientated, cares about his work colleagues and customers and is the right person for this position.”
Lowe is the first to admit that Hall has big shoes to fill at McConnell. The seating business is in the midst of shifting its structure in the wake of recent procurement decisions made in Victoria. This temporary pause in ordering new buses saw McConnell adapt its sales team structure, as Hall’s arrival allowed McConnell to expand the Victorian sales manager role to a national one.
“It made sense to have someone who’d be in the thick of it in the northern states where all the action is going to be,” Lowe says.
“Mick is that person, and it’s not a big leap for him to take.”
While it’s a sign of changing times at McConnell, the initial focus is on Hall and Arthur working together to ensure the business is best positioned to continue its position as the seating leader in the local market.
“It’s been a fantastic company to work for and I’ve had a terrific journey here,” Arthur says.
“While the loss of the family operator is noticeable, I know I won’t be far away from the industry and I’m enjoying showing Mick the ropes. My exit date isn’t defined, so I’ll stick around for as long as I’m useful.”
Arthur’s departure will be a long goodbye as Lowe is adamant he’ll be around until next year. In the meantime, McConnell is preparing to
our local manufacturing processes and new range to continue building our strong order book,” Lowe says.
position we’ve been in, so it’s a credit for him and what he’s been able to do for us.”
Altro has addressed a critical issue plaguing many flooring options in the Australasian bus industry through its new laminated logos and precision flooring kits
For decades, bus and coach operators across Australia and New Zealand have faced a common frustration – water ingress beneath vehicle flooring.
Traditional logo inserts, while visually appealing, often created weak points where water could seep under the surface. Over time, this led to adhesive failures, warped subfloors and expensive, time-consuming repairs.
Now, a breakthrough in flooring technology is rewriting that story. Altro, a global leader in transport flooring solutions, has invested in new equipment and capabilities at its Dandenong South facility to deliver fully laminated, waterproof logos and precision-cut flooring kits that are designed and manufactured locally for the Australasian market.
Until recently, logos were cut from standard flooring sheets and manually fitted into buses and coaches. This left seams vulnerable to water ingress, particularly in high-traffic areas near entryways. Operators frequently reported pieces popping out, adhesives failing and unsightly
Altro Asia-Pacific transport manager Oliver Whyte told ABC this issue has now been addressed.
“We listened to operators who were tired of seeing logos literally pop out of the floor after just a few months of service,” he says.
“The issue wasn’t cosmetic – it was costing fleets time and money to constantly repair water damage underneath. That’s what drove us to completely rethink the process.”
Altro’s new laminated logos eliminate these problems, making life easier for operators around Australasia. Produced with advanced lamination technology, each logo is sealed to prevent water penetration and is rigorously tested against international waterproofing standards. Where EN 13553 requires flooring to withstand a 20mm water column, Altro pushed the boundary to 75mm – well beyond the standard – proving the durability and watertight reliability of its solution.
“For fleet owners, that’s one less maintenance headache,” Whyte says.
“They can be confident their branding isn’t just looking sharp, but it’s built to last, with more time to spend on the road and less time on maintenance.”
The decision to invest locally is as important as the technology itself. By producing laminated logos and precision-cut flooring kits at its
Dandenong South facility, Altro is ensuring rapid turnaround times, greater flexibility and compliance with local content requirements.
“This isn’t just about ticking a compliance box,” Whyte says.
“Local manufacturing means faster supply, more control over quality and genuine support for the Australian industry. Our customers don’t want to wait 12 weeks for product – they want it next week. Now we can deliver.”
Local production also reduces reliance on overseas supply chains – a vulnerability highlighted during the pandemic. With equipment now in-house, Altro can offer shorter lead times and tailored branding options for Australian and New Zealand fleets.
Alongside laminated logos, Altro has introduced pre-cut flooring kits designed to match exact vehicle layouts. Traditionally, installers worked from rolls of material, cutting on-site – a labour-intensive process that produced significant waste. Precision-cut kits, prepared at Altro’s facility, arrive ready to fit, reducing installation time and minimising offcuts.
“Instead of rolling out 20 metres of
vinyl on a workshop floor and cutting around wheel arches by hand, the kits arrive cut precisely to each model,” Whyte says.
“That means installers are faster, there’s less waste and the operator gets a perfect fit every time. It also dramatically reduces the installation time, meaning other aspects of the build can be done sooner.”
Altro’s commitment goes beyond convenience, as the flooring itself remains true to the company’s reputation for safety, with slip-resistant surfaces designed for heavy foot traffic.
“Safety is non-negotiable – every passenger, from school kids to commuters, deserves confidence that they won’t slip in wet weather,” Whyte says.
“That’s the foundation of our products – and it’s something we’ll never compromise on.”
By reducing waste through precision cutting and manufacturing locally, Altro helps operators lower their environmental footprint, proving that sustainability is also a key pillar of the updates.
Below: Important signage and branding is also available through Altro’s floors
Whyte says laminated logos go beyond just being functional and also enhance the identity of operators. Whether they’re for a national brand or a regional operator, logos create recognition and a sense of pride.
“Branding is front-of-mind for operators – your logo on the floor isn’t just a decoration, but also a statement,” he says.
“It tells passengers who you are, what you stand for and it reinforces that every detail has been thought about.”
Altro’s investment in Dandenong South signals a new chapter for bus interiors in Australia and New Zealand. By addressing long-standing challenges of water ingress, speeding up installation and offering new branding opportunities, the company is giving operators and builders a competitive edge.
“The message is simple: no more popped logos, no more water damage, no more wasted time,” he says.
“Operators can now have interiors that look great, last longer and are made right here in Australia. That’s something we’re proud of – and it’s only the beginning.”
BCC is leading the way in Australia’s north and west, with its unique range of HVAC solutions proving critical to running comfortable bus services in a range of climates
It’s well-known how incredibly vast and unique the Australian landscape is. From the dusty summer plains of the outback deserts and the stifling humidity of northern Australian cities to the heavy rain showers that sweep across Perth, the Australian climate demands that its vehicles can cope with a range of environments.
In the northern and western regions of Australia, requirements vary from the eastern and southern sides, where cooler and drier weather is often a hallmark in certain parts of the year.
In the former’s surrounds is where Bus Climate Control (BCC) has made a name for itself in the local bus and coach markets as a leading HVAC provider for the humid north of the island nation.
“The north and west of Australia test HVAC systems harder than anywhere else. Operators here face relentless heat, humidity and dust,” BCC ANZ customer support manager Gavin Blight told ABC
“That’s why BCC has become the preferred HVAC partner – we’ve
proven our ability to keep fleets reliable and passengers comfortable in the toughest environments.”
To understand how BCC has become a leading air-conditioning force in Australia’s north and west, one must first understand its history.
BCC is one of several global brands part of the VBG Group, which is a publicly traded international industrial collection of companies founded in 1951 by Herman Krefting.
With various divisions, the Swedish-based brand has approximately 1,800 employees in 15 countries, with sales being made in an additional 50 countries particularly relating to the global truck market.
Within Australia, the brand was first known under the Mobile Climate Control (MCC), which specialises in construction, defence, forestry, agricultural and mining equipment. For the past 10 years, since Blight began its ANZ bus and coach operations while also supporting existing operations in the region, MCC was the go-to name for bus HVAC systems in remote regions of Australia, with the acquisition
of bus air-conditioning operations within North America and Asia seeing the brand expand its global presence.
In 2022, MCC and BCC became separate divisions as part of a rebranding of the former company, with BCC now being the specialist provider of transit, school bus, coach and shuttle HVAC systems.
The end result is two separate brands targeting different segments of the commercial vehicle markets and a brand in BCC that is more specifically focused on buses and coaches in Australia.
“BCC offers reliable and sustainable HVAC-R solutions at a competitive and predictable lifecycle cost to the bus market,” Blight says.
From a local perspective, this specialist focus has seen BCC’s systems become suitable options to maximise comfort in any environment and vehicle application. This recent growth in Australia comes from global aspirations, as BCC created its name based on its pivot to becoming more industry specific for the world’s bus and coach market.
Factories in York, USA and Ningbo in China have resulted in more than 90 engineers supporting BCC worldwide, with more than 1,000 staff producing more than USD $125 million revenue in 2024.
Within these manufacturing hubs, BCC produce a range of components, from evaporator, condenser and heater coils to convectors, metal casings, hose assemblies, electric circuits and valves. Via in-house testing, which also features three vehicle climate chambers around the world, this wide range of parts is expanding BCC’s portfolio for the Australian bus market.
“Our roof-mount systems are engineered for extreme conditions,” BCC vice president of engineering global bus Keith Sutton says.
BCC has been able to stand up to this test over time, providing a top-of-class air flow system that results in superior cooling in the summer months. Its Husky 45 high-capacity rooftop unit, alongside the Husky 40 rooftop, have become the hallmark of reliable cooling for large buses operating in the demanding north and west.
These units are engineered specifically for extreme climates, delivering powerful airflow and dependable performance while keeping weight and energy draw under control. This combination makes them the go-to choice for operators who cannot afford downtime in regions defined by
“They deliver powerful cooling without adding unnecessary weight, which makes them ideal for operators running large fleets in hot climates. Flexibility and dependability are built into every unit.”
While the Husky 45 and 40 units are BCC’s bread and butter in the Australasian market for large buses, the Husky 35 is also popular for medium sized vehicles, while the Siberian S-18 and S-16 are suited to midi buses and coaches.
On the zero-emissions side, the Siberian S18E range provides full advanced integrated climate temperature management systems and multiple high voltage operating ranges for zero-emissions vehicles up to 10.5m long.
All of this sits alongside BCC’s training and field support capabilities, with
training and on-site field support available. BCC offers this service at an operator’s own facility, on their own vehicles and with their own team, making air-conditioning service easier.
While the north and west is where BCC has made its name in Australia, it’s not just in the sticky heat that BCC’s systems are thriving. When the occasional winter chill does descend on a crystal-clear morning, BCC’s products have been able to provide a full reheat mode in the colder months.
Backed by a comprehensive local, national and global support network, BCC’s latest changes have it prepared to continue offering innovation within the Australasian market.
“Even in the warmer regions, early mornings can be surprisingly cold,” Blight says.
“Our full reheat mode means drivers have clear windscreens from the start of service and passengers step onto a bus that feels safe and comfortable straight away.”
A range of acquisitions, growth and industry-leading partnerships is placing Wales ahead of the curve in Australia’s heavy vehicle repair market
There’s no denying that the Australasian bus and coach industry is facing one of its most challenging and transformative periods in decades. Rising cost pressures, tightening safety regulations, infrastructure and contract limitations. Throw in the urgent shift towards lower-emission fleets and there’s plenty currently weighing heavily on operators around the region.
More than ever, the industry is in need of partners across a range of markets who can deliver certainty, compliance and innovative solutions that support the future of passenger transport.
On the repairs and servicing side, Wales Heavy Vehicle Repairs is answering that call in a time of need for the industry.
In decades gone by, the role of a heavy vehicle repair company was to provide a simple repair shop. Nowadays, operators want and need more than just a shop – they need partners who understand the current operating environment. From there, modern day servicing branches can help customers meet demanding KPIs on safety, uptime and customer satisfaction.
Wales has continued evolving to meet these growing needs, focusing on safety-first repair standards. By building its list of certified technicians, enhancing its Australian Design Rule (ADR) compliance and offering robust QA systems, Wales has adapted its processes to meet the current times. The repair brand has also focused on minimising downtime and supporting service continuity to ensure operators can enjoy predictable turnaround times when they get their fleets serviced by Wales. By offering this service at a national capacity, customers have
been able to reduce their reliance on long global supply chains and instead focus on a local company that is capable of consistently keeping fleets moving.
This national capability has been in the spotlight recently, with Wales acquiring a new Darwin site earlier this year. The expansion saw Wales acquire Bodyline Smash Repairs in the Northern Territory before rebranding the site as Wales Darwin, strengthening the group’s ability to support national fleets, insurers and owner-drivers.
“Darwin is an essential link in Australia’s freight and logistics chain,” Wales Heavy Vehicle Repair general manager Martin Dickinson told ABC
“Bringing Bodyline into the Wales network means our customers –whether they’re managing national fleets, overseeing insurance claims or running as independent operators –can access the same level of quality, turnaround and service they’ve come to expect from us in other major transport hubs.”
The new Darwin site extends Wales’ specialist heavy vehicle repair capabilities in the NT, allowing operators across northern Australia to have access to the same scale, quality and safety assurance that Wales delivers nationally.
A key motivator behind Wales’ growth is it dedication to trust. By working to earn this from industry partners, Wales has received industry recognition, including being appointed as a preferred repairer for ATL.
“This relationship is one of many we’ve established within the industry alongside our proud partnership with NTI and QBE,” Dickinson says.
“Our network continues to grow, with numerous insurers and customers placing their trust in the Wales brand to keep their fleets moving and getting back on the road efficiently.”
On top of this, Wales’ appointment to support the New South Wales government’s fleet repair tender is highlighting its ability to deliver at scale on critical contracts, ensuring public transport reliability and safety.
These partnerships aren’t just limited to service contracts – Wales has also entered into a partnership
with Gemilang to shape future bus manufacturing processes in Australia. With the industry watching the transition to greener fleets closely, Wales is helping lead the transition by introducing aluminium body technology for lighter, stronger and more durable fleets.
shaping the future bus manufacturing process
Below:
assembly of electric buses while offering aftersales service and parts support nationally.
“This is more than innovation, it’s a local, scalable, future-ready solution for the industry,” Dickinson says.
Across Australia, Wales’ network of dedicated heavy vehicle facilities
its blossoming customer network. “StyleRide has officially released its Aquarius Advance range,” StyleRide
cost improvements on the Aquarius Advance series without compromising quality. With design
seat welcomes updates that take it to the next level to suit a range of different luxury types.
“All the standard features of the Aquarius seat are featured in this model, including the patented foldaway armrest as standard and an ergonomically designed squab,” Wells says.
“The Aquarius also includes enhanced comfort, passenger protection and style, inboard seatbelts and a cost effective and high capacity configuration.”
The changes aren’t just in the features, as StyleRide has also reimagined its fabric choices for the Aquarius Advance range. Now, the updated models have the choice to come with synthetic leather in Shann Vegas.
“Shann Vegas is an excellent fabric that has all the look and feel of leather but without the upfront cost and the level of care that natural leather seats need,” Wells says.
“Vegas can simply be wiped over with a warm soapy cloth as opposed to the very frequent leather care waxes and conditioners needed on leather seats.
“StyleRide is also happy to offer these to suit the customer needs with a selection of colours to choose from, plus coloured stitching. These features add a personal feel to the seats, and we’re happy to discuss options.”
A key part of StyleRide’s renaissance over the past year has been its commitment to listening to customers. With Wells leading the business development side of the company, the supplier has expanded its face-to-face interactions within the sector, improving trust.
The focus comes from StyleRide’s philosophy of using its customer network to gain a deeper understanding of customer needs and how it can collaborate with the market on projects.
“We have listened to our customers’ praise and criticism and have started implementing changes that we feel will better suit their needs moving forward,” Wells says.
A large part of this falls into the bespoke seating options and customisation that StyleRide now offers customers.
“Customers can now come to us with any request and we will try to
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make it happen,” Wells says.
“If they want to highlight their company colours, use a logo or do a certain fabric, we can personalise it any way they want.”
“We have listened to our clients and customers, seeing what they need and what would best suit them.”
On the Aquarius Advance range, this idea is in full swing. StyleRide is encouraging the market to provide feedback on two new design additions for the latest models. The supplier is calling on customers to comment on either the blue hex stitching or red cross stitching designs. Wells says these will be a no-cost option and will add a unique style to the Aquarius Advance.
It all comes at a pivotal time for StyleRide and is a next step forward for the business after spending the past year redefining its customer connections and production processes. Wells says the supplier has worked “bloody hard” to ensure its production line is running smoothly, meaning StyleRide has shortened its lead times and is ready to lead the way in production timelines for local seats.
With an exciting, customisable new model now also on offer, StyleRide is ready to enjoy further growth in 2026 and beyond.
“StyleRide will always be focused on our customers, and feedback is how we get better,” Wells says.
“We believe we have a great product, and we will continue to provide our customers, old and new, with a product and service that exceeds expectations.”
Royans is sharpening its customer focus through new leadership, infrastructure investment and an expansion across the Tasman
Above: Royans group sales manager Graeme Sharp is at the forefront of the brand’s growth
The past few years have been non-stop for many in the local bus and coach industry. New technology, changes of strategy and tweaks in regulations means the sector has barely stood still.
Royans has undergone significant transformation in recent years, a journey highlighted by the celebration of its 80-year milestone at last year’s National Bus and Coach Show. The anniversary marked a moment of reflection on the company’s expansion, which has grown to 21 sites in Australia and six in New Zealand. There has also been leadership growth, signalling the brand’s evolving standing in the local bus and coach sector.
When Royans announced that Scott Isaacs had moved into the role of business development manager,
it signalled a renewed commitment to the bus and coach repairs market. Isaacs, who grew up in the family-owned Coachworks business, brings decades of sector knowledge and a lifetime of practical experience to the role. His appointment
Below: Expansion is under way in both Australia and New Zealand
highlights the company’s intent to expand its service offering and strengthen customer relationships across Australia and New Zealand.
Isaacs says the BDM position gives him the time to focus on customer relationships and planning.
“It’s important that I understand what our customers are doing now, but also what they’re planning for the future,” he told ABC
“That means I can help prepare Royans to support them wherever they are, whether that’s in Brisbane, regional Australia or across the Tasman.”
From the perspective of Graeme Sharp, Royans’ group sales manager, he believes Isaacs’ knowledge is unmatched in the industry.
“He knows coaches and buses back to front,” Sharp told ABC
“Scott grew up in the business, served his apprenticeship as a bus and coach builder, and understands the full scope of work from smash repairs to wheelchair lifts and seatbelt refits. That experience is a real advantage for our customers.”
Alongside leadership appointments, Royans has been investing in infrastructure to improve repair capacity. A major step is the new spray booth at the Kewdale branch in Western Australia, which both Sharp and
Isaacs view as a vital addition. Isaacs explained that paint facilities are often the bottleneck in the repair process.
“Pretty much every job requires panel work and painting,” he says.
“With the new booth, capacity increases, drying times are faster and we can handle multiple colours in a single day. The technology allows for a higher quality finish with much quicker turnaround times.”
For operators, that means less downtime and vehicles back on the road sooner – a critical factor when margins are tight. Sharp added that this type of investment reflects Royans’ wider approach of keeping up with modern technology, from upgraded repair equipment to training future tradespeople.
Expansion has extended across the Tasman, with Royans establishing a purpose-built facility in Christchurch. Sharp says New Zealand was a natural step for the business.
“We already had Australia covered and saw New Zealand as the next opportunity,” he says.
“We’ve built the first purpose-built truck and bus repair facility in Christchurch, so everything is under one roof. That improves turnaround times and gives operators confidence they’ll get the same service as they do in Australia.”
Isaacs says the move also reflects the shared nature of the industry.
“Many bus and coach suppliers operate in both countries, and a lot of vehicles are built in one market for the other,” he says.
“Having facilities in both places just makes sense for customers who work across the Tasman.”
With Isaacs driving customer engagement, new technology improving repair capabilities and a broader footprint that now spans two countries, Royans is positioning itself as a major partner in the bus and coach repairs industry.
“We invest back into the industry,” Sharp says.
“Customers know they can pick up the phone, speak to a real person, and get quality repairs with faster turnaround times.”
For more information, visit royans.com.au
The return of Busworld saw a range of leading global bus manufacturers showcase their latest innovations and tease exciting technology
Held in Brussels, Belgium from October 4 to 9, the global trade show for the bus and coach industry proved the perfect host for unveilings and releases.
Whether it be electric buses or entirely new systems, the international sector didn’t hold back in uncovering their latest developments. Here’s some of the highlights from brands who also have a heavy presence in Australasia.
Yutong made its mark at Busworld Europe 2025 in Brussels, unveiling a suite of new vehicles, core technologies and service solutions that highlight its push toward greener and smarter public transport.
The company debuted two new electric models: the Intercity Bus IC12E and the Tourist Bus T14E. These launches were part of a wider display covering multiple segments, including buses and coaches, supported by a showcase of Yutong’s own self-developed components.
Yutong also highlighted the progress of its YEA (Yutong Electric Architecture), which first launched at Busworld 2023. This year, the platform is extended to include new energy technologies and lifecycle
service solutions designed to keep fleets efficient throughout their service life.
The company says its exhibits reflected the strategic direction to “go electric, go intelligent-networked, go high-end and go international”. Visitors saw demonstrations of industry-leading IOV-powered services aimed at ensuring stable, long-term operations for customers.
Yutong’s stand was presented under the theme Think Eco, Move Green, aligned with its vision to make sustainable public transport more widely accessible. On October 3, at the media day at Busworld, the manufacturer hosted a dedicated brand launch event to formally introduce the highlights of its new products and technologies.
The showcase follows a strong record at previous Busworld events. In 2019, Yutong set a new benchmark for Chinese manufacturers by winning three major awards. At Busworld 2023, its T15E became the only battery-electric coach to win a label, cementing Yutong as the only Chinese brand honoured that year. The T15E is now operating in Finland, underscoring how Busworld recognition translates into commercial deployment. Since entering the European
market in 2004, Yutong has steadily expanded its presence, with new energy buses now in service across Nordic countries, the UK, France, the Netherlands and beyond. Its Busworld 2025 showcase underlined that track record while pointing firmly to the future.
Volvo Bus officially unveiled a new electric coach chassis that boasts a range of 700km on a single charge.
The new Volvo BZR Electric coach chassis marks a bold step forward in electrification for the Swedish OEM, offering up to 720kWh battery capacity and an operating range of up to 700km according to the SORT 3 test cycle.
This electric coach chassis is set to be capable of longer journeys with fewer charging stops and greater operational versatility, enabling long inter-regional routes.
The Volvo BZR Electric is available with two or three axles and four to eight modular energy storage units. This modular design allows the chassis to be tailored for a wide range of operational needs and optimised for shorter distances or maximum range.
A battery capacity of up to 720kWh means improved efficiency, increased
range and reduced travel times for operators.
“The Volvo BZR represents a new benchmark in electric buses in Australia. It combines modular flexibility with the proven reliability and safety that Volvo is known for worldwide,” Volvo Bus Australia general manager Mitch Peden says.
“Whether operating in the heat of the outback on a mining site, or on a demanding school bus route, the BZR is designed to perform in any climate and condition. By offering operators a platform that is both adaptable and future-ready, we’re ensuring our customers gain long-term value, with no compromise on quality or safety.
With the BZR, Volvo Bus is proud to give our customers the ability to truly Reach For More.”
Scaniateaseselectricevolution
Amid the wave of releases and displays at Busworld this year, Scania presented its sustainable and cost-effective people transport range.
The Scania stand at the global bus industry event featured recently launched electric solutions as well as the new Scania powertrain platform and plug-in hybrid variant.
Additionally, the company also provided an on-site launch of another new electric product.
Scania lined up at Busworld Europe with a truly exciting array of products, including new additions to its already comprehensive portfolio that will attract great industry attention and put the company in a strong position for the future of people transport.
Not only did Scania showcase its extended e-mobility offering, including the Scania 3-axle low-entry electric bus platform launched in April in the form of a Scania Irizar i3, it also launched a brand-new electric product during the Busworld event itself.
Besides this, the company exhibited its brand-new powertrain platform for coach applications, which comes in both a combustion engine version – the Scania Super – and a plug-in-hybrid (PHEV) version.
With the new solutions, operators in the travel segment can benefit from increased efficiency with improved
fuel and emission savings, plus compliance with zero-emission zones.
Visitors also had the chance to take a test ride in the Scania/Irizar i6S Efficient PHEV outside the hall at Brussels Expo; the PHEV took part in the Busworld Vehicle Awards too.
“We went to Busworld to present our most advanced portfolio yet, with solutions fit for future transport requirements that are extremely competitive in terms of both sustainability and operating economy, and which cover a full spectrum of operational needs,” Scania people transport solutions marketing communications manager Tobias Siöström says.
The race toward zero-emission technology in the bus industry has intensified, with Isuzu and Toyota set to co-develop a next-generation fuel cell electric bus.
Announced at Busworld, production is scheduled to begin in 2026 at the Utsunomiya Plant in Tochigi Prefecture, operated by J-Bus, a joint venture between Isuzu and Hino Motors.
The new vehicle will be based on a flat-floor battery electric platform launched by Isuzu and Hino in 2024. Toyota’s hydrogen fuel cell system will be integrated into the design, broadening carbon-neutral options
battery electric technology, the manufacturers aim to reduce costs through shared components while offering a practical solution for different operating conditions.
For the bus industry, the Isuzu–Toyota project represents a significant step toward providing technology suited to a broader variety of services.
Toyota positions hydrogen as a key energy source in its decarbonisation strategy. The company has been investing across the hydrogen supply chain, from production and storage to transport and use, and now plans to apply this expertise directly to the bus sector.
Isuzu, meanwhile, is seeking to commercialise fuel cell technology alongside its existing battery electric development.
The two companies intend to work with local governments and regional operators to accelerate deployment. Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has already designated priority areas for fuel cell commercial vehicles, and the partners plan to align with these initiatives to build early momentum.
The partnership also reflects Toyota’s “Beyond Zero” philosophy, which focuses not only on eliminating emissions but also on creating new value for passengers and the communities they serve. For bus operators, that could mean reliable long-distance services, consistent
Send in your best bus or coach photos to feature in next month’s magazine.
Robert Shelton’s unique Potter Travel shot by a special dish made for a Best Bus October winner that’s out of this world
ver the past 18 months, ABC ’s Best Bus has taken beloved buses and coaches to a range of places.
From the tip of Mt Cook in New Zealand to the beautiful glistening reflection of Uluru in the Northern Territory, the array of photos to date have had no limits.
However, the October winner of Best Bus has taken us to a completely new place, with the sun-filled shot courtesy of Robert Shelton giving us a glimpse into the world of outer space and satellites.
It was a tightly contested competition for October, with Bryce Pender’s high standard of quality
shots coming to the fore with a special maroon old timer.
Richard McDonald’s two flicks, one of a Kinetic bus shining brightly in the dark and another of the side of a colourful SkyBus, were both worthy contenders.
Ventura apprentice parts interpreter Shayla Thorpe’s great effort to get up early and capture the sun rising at Ventura’s Dandenong depot was also worthy of recognition.
However, none of these entrants could go past Shelton, who wowed the team at ABC with his shot of a Deane Coaches/Potter Travel coach in front of the ACT dish.
Taken out the front of the Canberra Deep Space Communication
Above: Robert Shelton’s shot of a Potter Travel coach in front of the Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex took us to infinity and beyond
Complex dish in Tidbinbilla in the ACT, the Potter Travel coach is a 2008 Volvo B12R with a Coach Design body.
“It’s done 985kms and is still going strong,” Shelton told ABC
“It was taken on August 17 and the dish made for an interesting shot.”
As the winner of Best Bus October, Shelton has received a free 12-month subscription to ABC magazine, while the winning photo is also being shown off as ABC ’s Facebook cover photo for the whole of the month.
Don’t forget to send through your Best Bus photos for November and throughout 2025 via email and keep an eye on our Facebook page for more details!
A bus deliveries resurgence in August has been taken to a new
When the bus deliveries dipped in July, it seemed that the industry’s peak was finally coming to a close. However, the past two months have told a different tale as 128 deliveries in August and now 159 in September have led a resurgence in the market. While September’s lofty deliveries numbers were still down on the 174 units recorded at the same time last year, it’s an impressive rise in recent months.
Key to the impressive deliveries numbers in September was a shock in the chassis sector, as Scania jumped to top spot for the month with 45 units delivered. It surpassed the consistent leader in fellow European OEM Volvo, who had to settle for second place with 38 deliveries. Yutong slid down to third through its blend of 18 heavy bus deliveries and 10 light bus units. From there, Custom Denning and King Long couldn’t be split with 12 units apiece, and neither could MAN (seven) and I-Bus (seven light bus deliveries). Following these tight tussles was BCI with five deliveries,
BLK with four and Challenger with the sole light bus delivery.
Despite the surprise in the chassis market, Volgren ensured there was no repeat in the bodybuilder sector as it recorded 45 deliveries for September. It was comfortably ahead of the next best in Yutong (18 heavy and 10 light bus deliveries) and Irizar (19). Custom Denning got clean air in the bodybuilder section through its 12 deliveries, finishing ahead of BCI 10), while Global Bus Ventures (nine) and BLK (eight) kept narrowly ahead of I-Bus (seven light bus deliveries) and King Long (six). The final 15 deliveries were split across five brands in an even finish.
An emphatic finish was seen in the seating market as McConnell had an incredible month courtesy of 78 units delivered out of 159. It tripled the second placed Sege, who maintained its spot with 26 deliveries, while Yutong finished third with 20. Following the podium was StyleRide (14), who kept just ahead of King Long (12), while APM (seven) and Fainsa (two) wrapped up a smaller market for September.
Above: Change was everywhere in major segments as September’s bus and coach deliveries continued to skyrocket. Image: Scania Australia
The only consistent feature of the air-conditioning market has been that a different result is guaranteed each month, and such was the case in September as Hispacold took top honours with 31 deliveries. It narrowly surpassed Cling-Yutong in second spot with 28 units, while Thermo King shot up to third with 25 units for the month. After tying last month with Hispacold, Coachair dropped to fourth in September with 20 units delivered, keeping its nose in front of Spheros with 18. King Long (12) was the only other brand to register double digits, with the likes of Songz (eight), Valeo (seven), Konvekta (five) and Denso (five) bringing the even market home for the month.
The state-based battle was NSW’s once again, but this time not without a fight. The blues recorded 45 deliveries in September, this time having to fend off a resurging Victoria who finished second with 40 deliveries. Queensland dropped to third with 33 units, while South Australia shot into fourth with 18 deliveries, ahead of WA’s 12. The ACT continued its consistency with six deliveries, with the Northern Territory returning to the board with four and Tasmania recording the sole unit.
The split between zero-emissions and diesel buses continued to move slowly towards the former in September, as 32 electric buses out of 159 saw it gain more of the share. In that space, Custom Denning (12) led the likes of Yutong (seven), King Long (six), Volvo (five) and BCI (two). When it came to the 127 diesel deliveries made, including two Scania diesel hybrids, Scania (43) sat ahead of Volvo (33) and Yutong (21).
Turn overleaf for comprehensive bus and coach delivery information for September. Please note all data is as supplied from manufacturers, at their discretion.
Volgren recorded 45 deliveries for September. It was comfortably ahead of Yutong (18 heavy and 10 light bus deliveries) and Irizar (19 deliveries).
An emphatic finish was seen in the seating market as McConnell had an incredible month with 78 deliveries. It tripled the second placed Sege, who maintained its spot with 26 deliveries, while Yutong finished third with 20 deliveries.
In the diesel space, when it came to the 127 deliveries made, including two Scania diesel hybrids, Scania (43) sat ahead of Volvo (33) and Yutong (21).
There was a shock in September as Scania jumped to top spot for the month with 45 units delivered. It surpassed the consistent leader in Volvo, who had to settle for second place with 38 deliveries. Yutong slid down to third through its blend of 18 heavy and 10 light bus deliveries.
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After the original mobile service provided free lung screenings to more than 53,000 people, the unique second instalment of the lung bus is now hitting the road around regional NSW
For many communities around Australia, buses are about more than just providing a much-needed method of public transport. While thousands of bus runs offer vital connections to every corner of Australia each and every day, the flexibility of heavy vehicles means they offer a variety of opportunities to help people in numerous ways.
This has been made clear this year, with New South Wales recently unveiling a new $2.5 million state-ofthe-art lung bus to improve the health of thousands of locals. The Lung Health Mobile Clinic offers lung health checks to people around the state after recently arriving in Shellharbour.
The goal of the unique bus is to ensure the early detection and treatment of dust disease like asbestosis, silicosis and mesothelioma.
“The new Mobile Clinic underscores the Minns Labor government’s commitment to removing barriers like cost and location, ensuring workers across NSW have access to the
critical support and care they need to safeguard their health,” NSW work health and safety minister Sophie Cotsis says.
“Along with enforcement of the recent ban on engineered stone, the new Lung Bus demonstrates our commitment to improve outcomes for workers exposed to hazardous dust across NSW.”
The lung bus program, via its free lung screening checks, provides services to more than 5,000 workers annually in regional NSW, with the icare lung bus travelling the length and breadth of the state. This has included visits to Newcastle, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, Taree, Tuncurry, Spears Point, Tweed Heads, Gosford, Nowra, Port Kembla, Bathurst, Dubbo, Broken Hill, Wagga Wagga, Griffith and Tamworth.
The new mobile clinic features several innovations including digital chest X-ray technology, enhanced spirometry (lung function) testing equipment, digital monitoring systems, a backup power supply and greater accessibility and comfort. It’s
