Swan Valley bus launched

A DAILY bus service targeting domestic and international visitors has been launched in the Swan Valley.

The circle route, departing from Guildford train station, will take guests along West Swan Road and Great Northern and Reid highways, allowing them to hop on and off at wineries, gourmet food providores and tourism attractions.

Launched by Tourism Minister Paul Papalia and Transport Minister Rita Saffioti, the Adams Perth-run service will target international and interstate tourists as well as local visitors who want to enjoy a drive-free day in the Swan Valley.

The buses will run on a reduced frequency on Monday and Tuesday and will operate every 30 minutes from Wednesday to Sunday, timed to meet with connecting train services at Guildford.

The buses will be fitted with free Wi-Fi and a new technology called the Eyevert Passenger Engagement System.

The Swan Valley Explorer is among the first in the world to install this technology which will provide information about the region and its attractions in multiple languages direct to each passenger’s smartphone by using QR codes.

“The Swan Valley is one of Western Australia’s premier visitor destinations. It is world renowned for its gourmet food and beverages, as well as its nature-based attractions and experiences,” Mr Papalia said.

“Visitor attraction remains the State Government’s number one tourism priority – everything we are doing is about growing numbers to create jobs, develop business opportunities and diversify the economy.

“I congratulate the City of Swan, Adams Perth and the local business providers for getting behind this new initiative which will help unlock the Swan Valley’s tourism potential.”

Ms Saffioti said it was essentially a CAT bus style service for the Swan Valley tourism region that would connect with the rest of Perth’s public transport network.

“Additionally, the State Government is working on a revised planning frameworks that will help protect the Swan Valley as a crucial viticulture and tourism region into the future,” she said.

All-day hop-on, hop off ticket:

Adult – $20.

Concession or children (under 15) – $15.

Family (two adults and up to three children) – $50.

Tickets online at www.goadams.com.au/swanvalleyexplorer, on-board and at Swan Valley Visitors centre.

City of Swan residents annual pass at subsidised rate – $60.