Trammies raise $11,500 for tsunami appeal

By Lou Di Gregorio, Secretary, Tram & Bus Division, Victorian Branch

Lou Di Gregorio presenting a cheque to Rev Tim Costello, March 10, 2005.

This was collected in all Tram Depots, a great credit to the Trammies, who once again showed that they will dig deep to help other communities in need. This money will never replace the lost lives, but it certainly will help to rebuild and comfort those who were left behind.

Tram extensions

When the Victorian Labor Party was elected in 1999, Public Transport was in turmoil. The Bracks Labor Government promised to improve Public Transport and particularly the Tramway system. The Government promised many Tram extensions and they have delivered most of it. All Dockland extensions are now operating. The last major extension, the East Burwood line, will be completed in July this year. It will be the longest tram line in the world from the city centre.

The Government is now planning, in conjunction with Tram workers, the 2020 Transport Plan. This process is very positive for Trammies and encourages members to continue to work for the benefit of all Public Transport in Melbourne.

Tram Priority Program

Tram Priority is a Victorian State Government initiative to deliver an initial $30 million over a two year period, with the possibility of a further $30 million, if the first phase is successful.

The RTBU Tram & Bus Division is a member of the Victorian Roads Advisory Council, advising the Transport Minister. This Advisory Council includes the RTBU, VicRoads, Tram Operators, Bus Operators, Local Councils, Community Groups, Police, and RACV, is now considering changes to Victorian road laws. These changes are to deliver priority for Trams on our roads, and include full-time Tram Lanes, (Tramways), part-time Tram Lanes and Trams mixed with traffic. It covers the following main activities:

• Priority Routes - about 50 kilometres of Tram routes are being significantly improved.
• Driving with Trams - a review of traffic engineering methods and road rules associated with Trams.
• Integration of the VicRoads and Yarra Trams Control Centres, to share video and Tram location data, and new protocols for operation.

The Minister of Transport has placed high importance on this program, and it is being supported by all major stake holders including the RTBU.

Our members, in particular, our Drivers, will see considerable improvements in the way Trams are prioritised on our roads. A goal of the the 2020 Transport Plan is that 20% of all motorised trips in Melbourne will be on Public Transport by the year 2020.