Every weekday morning in the City Onkaparinga, a fleet of council buses is quietly changing lives – providing a connection to the community, a step toward independence, and, for many, joy.
For Ena, a local resident who’s been using the community bus for more than 3 years, the service has made all the difference.
“Before using the bus, I wouldn’t go anywhere or I’d use cabs which at times weren’t reliable,” she says.
“The service has made a huge difference to me.”
Ena is one of 219 people who use the service regularly.
The fleet of 5 vehicles is operated by a team of 20 dedicated volunteers and completed over 11,200 trips in 2024–25. From shopping runs and community centre visits to social outings, the door-to-door service helps residents stay connected and independent.
The buses form part of the council’s community transport service which also includes working with external providers such as the Noarlunga Volunteer Transport Service and Willunga District Community Bus.
It’s available to transport-disadvantaged residents, with council staff working with individuals to determine their eligibility and find the best option.
Ena first found out about the bus when she reached out to the council looking for transport support. A member of the Active Ageing team visited her at home and introduced her to the service.
“I was paired with a volunteer and to improve my independence we started going for short walks,” she remembers.
“Then we progressed to do the shopping at Colonnades. Now the bus takes me independently.”
But the benefits go far beyond mobility.
“Without social connections, I struggled. I was very lonely and isolated,” Ena said.
Ena now uses the bus to get to coffee groups and social activities, something she never imagined herself doing.
“My independence and confidence have really improved,” she says. “Everyone is friendly on the bus. I wouldn’t talk to anyone at all before – now I’m so happy when I see the bus and love to chat.”
Seeing the familiar faces on the bus – including the friendly volunteers – has become something she looks forward to.
“It makes me feel really good. It’s nice to have their friendship – it makes me happy and gives me something to look forward to.”
The community bus operates in most areas on weekdays. Passengers are collected between 8.30am and 11am with varying return times. A gold coin donation per journey is encouraged and bookings are required.
To learn more about the council’s community transport service, including eligibility, call the council’s Active Ageing team on 1300365729 or visit the council's website.