After negotiations with local Bendigo operator Whitmore’s, the Bus and Coach Society of Victoria (BCSV) were able to secure an afternoon farewell tour for their MAN 10.180, Ansair Tasmaina, originally new to Metro Tasmania in 1992 as #512.

This bus was recently withdrawn from PTV duties and replaced with a Mercedes Benz O405 purchased from Ryans for the interim, which we will also ride.

The tour visited their small depot in Golden Square along with some other surprises, as well as a BBQ lunch.

To ensure parking for those who decide to drive up for the day, the tour commenced from Kangaroo Flat Station at 12:15pm. The bus awaited the 10:39am train from Melbourne, due into Kangaroo Flat at 12:11pm.

For interstaters flying in for the weekend, this train could be boarded at Sunbury at 11:09am, a 16km cab ride from the airport (we offered to arrange a car pick-up if required)

The afternoon concluded around 5pm, with drop-offs at both Bendigo Station and Kangaroo Flat Station. Those returning to Melbourne by train could catch the 5:35pm service (arriving at 7:27pm) or stay in Bendigo for dinner and catch the 6:40pm or 8:46pm trains home.

FARE:
Fare was a flat $10 for everyone, to cover the BBQ lunch and drink.

This tour required a minimum of 10 confirmed participants to go ahead – those attending had to RSVP to the Facebook page, send an email to tours@bcsv.org.au or call Craig Halsall (Assistant Tours Officer) on 0402 367 353

People were asked to advise if they have any dietary requirements or food allergies.