Passenger network expands its service in Murray Bridge

The Murray Mallee Community Passenger Network has a new car, thanks to a council grant – now it needs volunteers to drive it.

Passenger network expands its service in Murray Bridge
Judy Bagg and Wayne Thorley check out a couple of the network’s vehicles in Murray Bridge. Photo: Tailem Bend Community Centre,

A transport scheme which helps isolated locals get to medical and other appointments is expanding its service in Murray Bridge.

The Murray Mallee Community Passenger Network recently bought a new vehicle which will be permanently based in the community.

The Murray Bridge council contributed $4000 towards the cost of the new car through its community grants program.

Mayor Brenton Lewis he was pleased the council had been able to help.

“Transport is always a massive issue in our region, and this service will benefit some of our most transport-disadvantaged residents,” he said.

However, the scheme still needs to recruit more volunteer drivers.

Tammy Shepherd, CEO of the community centre which oversees the scheme, encouraged anyone with an interest in helping others to consider signing up.

“It is a very rewarding role, and ... there are no rosters, so (volunteers) are not locked into a commitment,” she said.

Some other community grant recipients

  • Adelaide Buggy Club: $5000 for an event at Murray Bridge Speedway
  • Competitive Pistol and Shooting Club: $2194 for resurfacing and safety markings at their range at Monarto
  • Domestic Violence is Never Acceptable: $2779 for suitcases of items for people fleeing domestic violence in Murray Bridge and surrounding areas
  • Imperial Football Club: $4000 for new playground equipment
  • Lions Club of Murray Bridge: $4738 for solar panels at the White Park Community Clubrooms
  • Lower Murray Vintage Engine and Machinery Club: $4000 for the 2022 heritage rally and tractor pull
  • Murray Bridge and Districts Table Tennis Association: $2510 for bats, matting and scorecards
  • Murray Bridge Interchurch Council: $12,721 for the 2021 Murray Bridge Christmas carols
  • Murray Bridge Lawn Tennis Association: $2520 for repairing damage caused by corellas, and $1840 for a ride-on lawnmower
  • Murray Bridge Little Athletics Centre: $3500 for an equipment shed and canteen, pending planning approval
  • Murraylands Gymnastic Academy: $2500 for the Fitter for Life program and gym equipment
  • Murraylands IMF Runners and Walkers (the former Deadly Fun Run Foundation): $4000 for a new laptop and advertising
  • Murraylands Migrant Network: $11,726 for the Multicultural Yuntu-Walun Festival
  • Mypolonga Memorial Oval: $2880 for new sprinklers
  • Reclink Australia: $4000 for a program which will help marginalised young people, or people living with a disability, return to sport, recreation and the arts in Murray Bridge
  • River Murray Football League: $4000 for security at the 2021 finals series and a live-streaming software upgrade
  • Rotary Club of Murray Bridge: $1873 for blinds at Foodbank SA’s Murray Bridge food hub
  • Soroptimist International Murray Bridge: $2500 for the Children’s Science Magic Show
  • Tinyeri Children's Centre: $4000 for the Wild Child, Wild Play program
  • Unity College: $2500 for a recycling project

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