Hear from our staff how transport services drive social connection

When services had to pause during the recent cyclone, the biggest loss wasn’t food or appointments - it was those connections.

At first glance, transport services might seem like a simple, practical offering — getting seniors from A to B. But for many of our clients, it’s more than that. It’s their independency, social connection, a reason to leave the house, and a comforting routine.

“Our goal is to keep our clients independent,” says Denise Bewley, Community Transport Service’s (CTS) Volunteer Coordinator at Wesley Mission Queensland (WMQ).

Most clients can’t drive. Our drivers might be the only person they see or talk to for days, so they love it. It's not just about going to the appointment. It’s about that social aspect as well.

Tara Mason, Senior Coordinator at CTS, says the service gives clients their dignity back:

It gets to a stage in life where you need to ask for help — and that can be a really difficult thing. When don't have to rely on others all the time, they can keep their dignity.

From routines to cherished moments

Little routines like a shared grocery run with a familiar group of passengers, doctor visits, and café catch-ups, become meaningful traditions that foster a sense of community.

As Tara explains, “It’s a good socialising tool”.

We have clients ring up and say, ‘make sure that Mary and I are on the same bus!’. This might be their only social outing or their way to connect with someone else outside of the home.

Denise adds with a chuckle: “They rush to do their shopping, then sit and chinwag for half an hour!”.

Even in moments of grief or challenge, humour, kindness, and community spirit prevail. Clients certainly feel it too.

“I've been using the service for about eight years with my sister. They’re always on time to pick you up” says one long-time customer. “You don't even have to carry your parcels or anything. The staff are all lovely, no matter who you talk to.”

Another adds:

It’s basically the same little crowd every time. And it’s great, you know? We get to do a little bit of shopping. Usually go for a coffee if we've got time. We just muddle along.

Whether it’s the first ride for a nervous newcomer or the hundredth coffee run with old friends, the team proves that community transport is about far more than getting from A to B.

It’s about being seen. Being heard. And knowing someone’s here for you. 

A day with the team