Shire of Augusta-Margaret River beach bus survey seeks extra information from users, residents

Organisers of last month’s ratepayer-backed beach bus are urging users and residents to fill out a survey sharing their feedback before it shuts next Friday.

The Shire of Augusta-Margaret River’s beach bus survey aims to collect crucial data to determine the feasibility of a free summer bus run in the future.

It was the first year the local government became the main contributor to the service originally started by Margaret River businesswoman Melissa d’Ath before her election to the council.

Last year, the service relied on a mix of funding and suffered by a lack of wider awareness, stakeholders said.

However, a motion at the last council meeting of 2024 ensure $20,000 was provided so the bus could run between the town and Gnarabup daily during January.

The bus was seen to fill a crucial gap as increased visitation and population numbers put pressure on beach carparks, already at their maximum, without encroaching further into the natural environment.

The survey closes on February 14 and can be found at yoursay.amrshire.wa.gov.au/beach-bus.