BCSV July Meeting: Guest Speaker - Dr Chris Lowe (BusVic)
2019-07-21 15:00 - 17:30 (Australia/Melbourne) | Melbourne Tram Museum (Hawthorn Tram Depot), 8 Wallen Rd, Hawthorn, Victoria, 3122, Australia
The BCSV are excited to announce another guest speaker for our programme of Sunday social meetings in 2019.
Dr Chris Lowe, Executive Director of BusVic, has kindly accepted our invitation to present at July meeting on Sunday 21 July at 3pm.
BusVic is an industry body that provides various forms of support to operators across the state and advocates to government on the behalf of private operators, both small and large.
Having lead BusVic for over a decade, Dr Lowe has a thorough understanding of the bus industry in Victoria.
Chris will present BusVic’s 10-point vision for enhancements across Victoria’s bus network, as developed ahead of the 2018 state election. He will discuss the various opportunities and challenges that lie ahead along with the likely consequences of ignoring the industry’s recommendations.
He will also provide valuable industry insight into the new metropolitan bus contracts signed with the state government last year.
The afternoon will close with a chance for the audience to ask Dr Lowe questions, followed by a hot drink over afternoon tea.
Our bi-monthly Sunday social meetings are held at Hawthorn Tram Depot / Melbourne Tram Museum, 8 Wallen Rd, near the corner of Power St.
Alight Tram Routes 70 & 75 at Riversdale Junction. Alternatively, Hawthorn Station on the Belgrave/Lilydale line is a short 10 min walk away.
All welcome, free entry!

BCSV AGM 2019 + Buses of Eastern Europe
2019-09-15 15:00 | Melbourne Tram Museum (Hawthorn Tram Depot), 8 Wallen Rd, Hawthorn, Victoria, 3122, Australia
AGM NOTICE
The BCSV: Bus and Coach Society of Victoria Annual General Meeting is to be held on Sunday 15th September at the Hawthorn Tram depot / Melbourne Tram Museum at 3pm.
Hawthorn Tram Depot is located at 8 Wallen Road Hawthorn, near the corner of Power Street and Riversdale Road. Tram Routes 70 & 75 stop outside, with Hawthorn Station a 10 minute walk away.
Elections for the Committee will be conducted at the AGM along with the presentation of the annual and financial reports.
Vacant positions include:
Executive Positions:
* President
* Deputy President
* Secretary
* Treasurer
Officers:
* Assistant Secretary
* Tours Organiser
* Historical Research (Heritage/Archive)
* Membership
* Restoration
* Safety
* Publications Editor
* Social Media Officer
* Website & Virtual Museum Content Officer
We’d also welcome those who wish to join us as general committee members.
As always members are encouraged to put themselves forward if they believe they can make a contribution to the Society, particularly helping us organise tours.
NOMINATION FORMS
Nomination forms have been emailed to members and can also be downloaded from our website:
PDF – https://bcsv.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Notice-of-2019-BCSV-AGM.pdf
DOC – https://bcsv.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Notice-of-2019-BCSV-AGM.doc
Nominations are welcome via post or email (secretary@bcsv.org.au) by Wednesday 11th September or otherwise can be made in person at the AGM.
PROXY FORMS
Members who are unable to attend the AGM may nominate a proxy by way of a form which clearly identifies the name of the member’s proxy and is signed by the member.
To assist members, an example proxy form has been created but the use of the form is not a requirement.
PDF – https://bcsv.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Proxy-Form-BCSV-AGM-2019.pdf
WORD – https://bcsv.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Proxy-Form-2019-BCSV-AGM.doc
Proxy forms should be declared by your nominated proxy at the commencement of the AGM.
They can also be forwarded to The Secretary, Bus & Coach Society of Victoria, PO Box 33, Caulfield East, 3145 to arrive by Wednesday 11th September. Digital copies accepted at secretary@bcsv.org.au up to 24 hours before the scheduled start of the meeting.
MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS
For those yet to renew their membership, see https://bcsv.org.au/membership/
AGM LOCATION
Our bi-monthly Sunday social meetings are held at Hawthorn Tram Depot / Melbourne Tram Museum, 8 Wallen Rd, near the corner of Power St.
Alight Tram Routes 70 & 75 at Riversdale Junction. Alternatively, Hawthorn Station on the Belgrave/Lilydale line is a short 10 min walk away.
Each meeting concludes with a short afternoon tea and chatter on the latest industry gossip.
Both members and guests are welcome, free admission.
MODEL RULES
A copy of the BCSV model rules can be found on our website – https://bcsv.org.au/about/model-rules/
We encourage all members planning to nominate to familiarise themselves with the model rules ahead of the AGM.
COS SITA UPDATE
We had planned to have Cos Sita as our special guest speaker at our May Meeting, along with Pino Gattellaro (Sunshine Tours)
However, in the lead up Cos’ mother sadly passed away so we postponed the guest speaker appearance until September, on Cos’ wishes.
Recently, the committee made contact with Cos to reconfirm his attendance. Unfortunately, after a change to his travel plans, Cos will be in transit back from Italy on this day, so we will unfortunately have to postpone it till another time.
In his place, Geoff Foster will present “Buses of Eastern Europe” featuring dozens of highlights from his recent overseas trip.

Ethanol Scania Farewell
2019-10-13 11:00 - 16:00 | Victoria
Enjoy a final sugar-hit to send off Ventura’s Ethanol-powered Scania L94UBs on Sunday 13 October.
After nearly 19 successful years of service, these trial vehicles are soon to be withdrawn ahead of the arrival of another 15 Scania K310UB low floors in the final months of 2019, thus bringing the experiment to an end.
These are believed to be the only three 100% Ethanol powered buses in Australia, each powered by sugar cane waste by-product.
Common in Sweden and Brazil, the cost of ethanol fuel in Australia has been a large barrier, prohibitive for a widespread roll-out. A similar trial of Canola bio-diesel by Invicta in 2001/2002 also came to a halt due to cost and the availability of the fuel.
We will use two of the three Ethanol buses for our farewell tour on Sunday 13 October. The date has been chosen to avoid a clash with the two-day Adelaide tour in late October.
Our tour will commence at Huntingdale Station bus interchange at 11am (awaiting the 10:55am train arrival from Melbourne) and travel along sections of Oakleigh Depot routes the trio were commonly used on.
We expect to return to Huntingdale around 4pm.
Those seeking a shorter day are welcome to depart the tour at Box Hill around 2:30pm. Attendees also have the option to board the latter part of the tour here and join us for the last hour & a half.
A lunch stop will be provided at Forest Hill Chase Shopping Centre (own expense).
Owing to the short notice, the BCSV committee has decided that the tour will be free to BCSV members, including those who join or renew on the day. The non-members fare is $10, with under 18s half price.
Membership info – https://bcsv.org.au/membership/
We thank Ventura management for their assistance in making the farewell possible.

Spring Heritage Hurrah to Seymour
2019-10-19 09:00 - 18:00 | Victoria
Join the Bus & Coach Society of Victoria for a heritage bus and coach running day on Saturday 19th October, featuring various heritage buses and coaches from both Moonee Valley Bus Lines & Driver Bus Lines.
Our ultimate destination for the day will be Seymour, including a visit to the Seymour Railway Heritage Centre (SRHC), who will be hosting a public open day.

PICKUPs

We can confirm the following pick-up info. Oakleigh and Caulfield are both out due to station works and the Caulfield Cup respectively. There will be parking available around Malvern station for those who wish to join there.

Bus 1 – Vehicle(s) from Driver Classics fleet (TBC)

* Huntingdale Station (601 stop in bus interchange): 8:45am

* Malvern Station (City-bound rail replacement stop on Dandenong Rd, outside Contour Panel Works): 9:05am

* Southern Cross Station (216/219 stop on Spencer St at Lonsdale St, outside Coles): 9:30am

Bus 2 – 1989 ‘Eagle Model 20’ from Driver Classics fleet

* Mt Waverley Shops (733 ‘Box Hill’ stop on Stephensons Rd): 8:30am

* Box Hill Station (612 stop in bus interchange): 8:45am

* Essendon Station (903 ‘Mordialloc’ stop on Mt Alexander Rd) – 9:35am (on request to tours@bcsv.org.au)

Anyone planning to meet us at Moonee Valley Coaches should arrive by 9:50am for a 10am start.

DROP-OFFs

The same vehicles will return participants home, as follows (all times approximate):

Bus 1

* Southern Cross Station: 4:45pm

* Malvern Station: 5:10pm

* Huntingdale Station: 5:30pm

Bus 2

* Essendon Station: 4:30pm (on request)

* Box Hill Station: 5:20pm

* Mt Waverley Shops: 5:40pm

MORNING TEA & LUNCH

After our heritage rides at Moonee Valley Coaches we will enjoy a late morning tea before departing for Seymour.

Seymour Railway Heritage Centre (SRHC) has advised that the local SES will be hosting a community BBQ on site as part of their open day. Accordingly, we have agreed to forgo our private BBQ, and instead participants can either support the SES and purchase a snag from them or alternatively, may wish to BYO sandwiches (etc) from home.

FARES

The members’ fare remains at $5, which includes morning tea. SES BBQ lunch at your expense.

Non-members fare has been dropped to $15 with the SES BBQ lunch at your expense.

Under 18s half price ($2.50 members & $7.50 non-members).

VESTs & TOUR ETIQUETTE

Hi-vis vests will be required at Moonee Valley Coaches. Limited spares available.

Attendees are encouraged to refresh themselves with our tour etiquette guidelines – https://bcsv.org.au/events-overview/tour-etiquette

RSVPs

Anyone who has booked a one-way trip home on either the R707 or DERMPAV heritage train services departing Seymour early afternoon MUST email tours@bcsv.org.au to ensure that we aren’t looking for you when we leave Seymour.

Likewise, those wishing to board Bus 2 in Essendon must request this pick-up.

For everyone else, we’d greatly appreciate if you could select “Going” on the Facebook event page to indicate your planned attendance.

Link – https://www.facebook.com/events/369115680706899/

OPTIONAL TRAIN RIDES HOME!
We have ensured our programme for the day will allow participants the chance to partake in an OPTIONAL alternative way home.
Both 707 Operations Inc and Dermpav Victoria will be operating heritage train services to Seymour on the same day as part of Tastes of the Goulburn 2019 and are offering one-way fares.
Our programme will include a 90 min morning visit to Moonee Valley Coaches including rides on restored vehicles before we depart for Seymour. We expect to arrive Seymour around 1pm.
Our lunch stop & second highlight will be Seymour Railway Heritage Centre (SRHC) who are hosting a public open day.
Our coach convoy is expected to depart Seymour between 2:30pm & 3pm.
Participants who wish to travel back by heritage train have two exciting options:
* R707 steam train, departing Seymour at 2:05pm, arriving Southern Cross at 3:50pm ($45 one-way)
* DERM railmotor 58, departing Seymour at 3:12pm, arriving Southern Cross at 4:54pm ($30 one-way)
Participants can also consider an early afternoon shuttle ride on the DERM in the Seymour area ($15) but will need to make their own way back to Melbourne via either the DERM option or the regular V/Line services ($12.46 Zones 1+6 full fare).
Details regarding bookings & intermediate stops enroute can be found online at:
R707 – http://www.707operations.com.au/
DERMPAV – https://www.dermpav.net.au/
Those wishing to travel back to Melbourne by train MUST book their seats themselves via the respective heritage group websites in advance and additionally advise us via email at tours@bcsv.org.au to assist with our headcounts departing Seymour.
BOOKINGS ON THE TRAINS ARE STRICTLY LIMITED.
All enquires regarding the train options should be made directly to the respective heritage train group.
The BCSV takes no liability for any missed train connections due to unforeseen delays or issues with the return train services.

Yarra Glen display sneak-peek afternoon
2019-11-09 12:30 - 17:00 | Driver Bus Lines, 45-53 Ricketts Road, Mount Waverley, Victoria, 3149, Australia
Keen to ride some of the Driver Classics heritage fleet?
Interested in getting some shots at Yarra Glen before the buses are parked and without the crowds?
Got other plans for Sunday 10 November?
Or maybe you just live and breath buses?
Gary Driver is once again inviting BCSV members to ride the convoy of restored Driver Classics’ buses and coaches to Yarra Glen on the afternoon of Saturday 9 November.
Interstate guests coming down for the main display are also welcome to join us.
The convoy will depart the Driver Bus Lines depot at 45-53 Ricketts Rd Mt Waverley at 12:30pm.
The convoy of Driver Heritage vehicles will leave the Driver depot at 45-53 Ricketts Rd, Mt Waverley at 12.30pm on Saturday 10th November.
A second stop in Lilydale will also be available. Email tours@bcsv.org.au if interested.
Attendees will need to find their own way to the depot – nearby options by bus include:
* 693 & 742 along Ferntree Gully Rd
* 703 & 737 along Blackburn Rd
* 733 along Stephensons Rd
There will be an opportunity to change vehicles in Lilydale on the way.
A current day coach will return attendees to the depot around 5pm, setting down at Lilydale Station enroute upon request.
The afternoon is free for both BCSV members and interstate guests and we thank Gary for the kind invite.
Details about the main HCVCA Historic Commercial Vehicle Display on Sunday 10 November can be found on the separate event page – https://www.facebook.com/events/383576758960693/

Historic Commercial Vehicle Display 2019 - Yarra Glen
2019-11-10 09:00 - 15:00 | Yarra Glen Racecourse, Armstrong Grove, Yarra Glen, Victoria, 3775, Australia
Join the HCVCA (Historic Commercial Vehicle Club of Australia) and BCSV: Bus and Coach Society of Victoria for a relaxing Sunday at Yarra Glen Racecourse on Sunday November 10 enjoying the 38th Historic Commercial Vehicle Display.
Entry is $10 per person with under 14s free! Free parking on site.
Inspect some of the hundreds of vehicles on display, from vintage trucks, buses and tractors, to steam engines and older cars.
Bus operators who regularly take part include Driver Bus Lines, Moonee Valley Coaches, Dysons, Ventura, Diamond Coaches, John Usher’s Invicta collection, among others.
There will be kids amusements, including face-painting and a jumping castle, and also a Touch A Truck section where kids are able to hop into trucks and have a squizz how they all work.
Enjoy live music all day, rocker cover races, which always draws a huge crowd, trade stalls, and of course delicious food and drink stalls.
HCVCA will also draw the much anticipated Tool Box Raffle at approx 2:30pm.
==========
SET-UP CONVOY &
DISPLAY DAY SHUTTLE BUS
On Saturday 9 November Gary Driver has kindly invited BCSV members & interstate bus enthusiasts to sample the Driver Classics heritage fleet and get some photos at the set-up afternoon. Full details – https://www.facebook.com/events/2174646439503244/
On Sunday 10 November a transfer bus will depart the Driver Bus Lines depot at 45-53 Ricketts Rd, Mt Waverley at 8:30am and Lilydale Station at 9:15am (awaiting train from the City).
The return journey from the display, using the heritage vehicles, will leave Yarra Glen just after 3pm with drop off at Lilydale Station around 3:30pm before travelling back to the depot in Mt Waverley, arriving back at 4:30pm.
==========
BRINGING A VEHICLE?
BUSES & COACHES
Bus and coach operators with heritage vehicles will be formally invited by secretary Jason Blackman to present their vehicles with relevant details.
Owners of preserved buses can contact Jason Blackman via secretary@bcsv.org.au for further details, or call him on 0406 407 004.
Parking is available from 3pm Saturday afternoon for those wishing to secure a prime position or group their fleet together. Also note the dinner & overnight camping options below.
Vehicles must remain in position until 3pm on Sunday.
TRUCKS & TRACTORS
Those wishing to present preserved trucks, tractors or other machinery should contact the HCVCA directly for bookings.
Contact one of the following people:
Allan – 0425 718 191
Jeff – 0408 181 816
Shane – 0409 541 494
Otherwise contact Jeff Johnston, Display Day Coordinator via vicepresident@hcvc.com.au
Parking is available from 3pm Saturday afternoon for those wishing to secure a prime position or group their fleet together. Also note the dinner & overnight camping options below.
Vehicles must remain in position until 3pm on Sunday.
CAR CLUBS
Car clubs are very welcome to attend. Please contact of the HCVCA organisers to advise an approximate number of vehicles likely to attend.
==========
SATURDAY NIGHT DINNER & CAMPING
On the Saturday night, the HCVCA holds an annual dinner in the dining room of the Racecourse. This is always a fantastic night, filled with good friends, good food, raffles, and a guest speaker.
Tickets for this are $35 per person and MUST be pre-booked in advance by the 5th November. Payment before, or on the night is OK, by Cash or EFT.
Please call Cindy on 0427 684 989 for dinner bookings
For those staying at Yarra Glen overnight, a $20 camping fee applies.

BCSV November Meeting: NSW Government Buses over the years
2019-11-17 15:00 - 17:00 | Melbourne Tram Museum (Hawthorn Tram Depot), 8 Wallen Rd, Hawthorn, Victoria, 3122, Australia
Join the BCSV on Sunday 17 November for our final Sunday social meeting for 2019. We’ll take a comprehensive look back at the government bus operations across both Sydney and Newcastle. Paul Kennelly will present the early years, while Geoff Foster will cover developments over more recent decades.
The timing of the meeting is rather apt, given the recent announcement by the NSW Liberal State Goverment to privatise the remaining sections of State Transit in inner Sydney.
Our bi-monthly Sunday meetings are held at Hawthorn Tram Depot / Melbourne Tram Museum, 8 Wallen Rd, near the corner of Power St.
Alight Tram Routes 70 & 75 at Riversdale Junction. Alternatively, Hawthorn Station on the Belgrave/Lilydale line is a short 10 min walk away.

Each meeting concludes with a short afternoon tea and chatter on the latest industry gossip.
Both members and guests are welcome to attend, free admission.

BCSV Tour and Depot Visit to McHarrys, Geelong
2021-01-31 08:00 - 18:00 | Various Pickup Points, Refer to event description
The Bus and Coach Society is pleased to announce that its first post-covid lockdown tour to McHarry’s, Geelong will take place on Sunday 31 January 2021, visiting both the main depot and a satellite depot with a BBQ lunch included. This event was to have run in March 2020 but had to be deferred.
COST
Tour cost will be $10 for members, and $20 for non members with a 50% discount for persons under 18.

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS
For those yet to renew their membership for 2020-2021, see https://bcsv.org.au/membership/
Cash payments will be accepted on the day.
TRANSFER COACH / PICK-UPs
The transfer coach for the day has kindly been provided by Bayside/ Nuline with volunteer driver and BCSV member Jason Lipszyc at the wheel. We thank both the company and Jason for their involvement. People may be aware that the company has provided a lot of support for the Fight MND charity, including having a coach in wrap livery. As a mark of our respect for Bayside/ Nuline, the BCSV Committee has agreed that all revenue from the tour, less expenses, will be donated to Fight MND. We also thank McHarry’s for their willingness to host our visit.

**UPDATE** We are pleased to announce that a second tour coach has been generously provided by Gary Driver & Driver Bus Lines. This will ensure enough seats for everyone and allow greater social distancing.

Members can choose to travel on either coach.

COACH 1 – BAYSIDE
* Bayside Depot at 36 Whiteside Road, Clayton at 8am (please park in the drivers’ car park NOT the main bus yard. This is NOT a depot visit on this occasion and attendees should move straight from car to the transfer coach.).
* Caulfield Station, north side, 8.25am
* Malvern Station, south side, outside Tyreplus, 8.30am
The coach will then run express to Geelong.
Drop offs on the way home will be at around 5.25pm at Malvern and 5.30pm at Caulfield with arrival at the Bayside depot at about 6pm.

COACH 2 – DRIVER
* Driver Depot at 45-53 Ricketts Road, Mt Waverley at 8.25am (please be at the depot by 8.20am).
* Southern Cross outside Coles near the intersection with Lonsdale Street at 9am
The coach will then run express to Geelong.
Drop off at SC on the way home will be at around 5pm for those with connections. Arrival at Mt Waverley should be around 5.30pm.
GEELONG LOCALS
A pick-up at Marshall Station at 10:15am will still be available for those who have requested it. For anyone wishing to drive directly to McHarrys, parking is available in Reeves Court, Breakwater.

For anyone wishing to drive directly to McHarrys, parking is available in Reeves Court, Breakwater.
The depot visit will last from approx. 10.30am to approx. 3.30pm.
2020 BCSV AGM
The 2020 Annual General Meeting of the Bus and Coach Society of Victoria will be held on Sunday 31st January 2021 at the McHarry’s Buslines depot, 6 Reeves Court, Breakwater at 1pm, prior to lunch.

The AGM is now being held at Geelong in order to allow tour attendees joining at Geelong to participate.
Elections for the Committee will be conducted at the AGM along with the presentation of the annual and financial reports.
Further details including committee nomination forms & proxy forms can be found at https://bcsv.org.au/event/bcsv-agm-2020/

COVID-SAFE RULES

Hi Viz vests will be required to be worn inside the McHarry depot premises and a few additional covid safe rules will apply.
Be aware that these may be subject to change if there are any changes to Government Health directions.

In addition to recording names in the attendance book, your phone number will also need to be recorded. This applies to both members and non-members.
Masks are to be worn on board the transfer coach, on board any McHarry buses taken out for a run and inside the McHarry office/ workshop buildings. Masks will probably not be required whilst out in the depot yards.
Supplies of hand sanitiser will be available. Please use it regularly during the day and especially before eating lunch.
Please observe social distancing requirements as far as is possible.
The procedure for photo lines for posed vehicles may be adjusted to have 6-8 people at a time taking pics instead of everyone crowding together. Participants will need to abide by instructions from the tour organisers to make this go smoothly.
RSVP
Please advise of your attendance to the Facebook event page. Alternatively, contact BCSV Secretary Paul Kennelly – Phone: (03) 9509 1593 or Email: secretary@bcsv.org.au

BCSV AGM 2020 (new date)
2021-01-31 13:00 - 13:30 | McHarrys Buslines, Breakwater, 6 Reeves Court, Breakwater, VIC, 3219, Australia
AGM NOTICE & LOCATION
The 2020 Annual General Meeting of the Bus and Coach Society of Victoria will be held on Sunday 31st January 2021 at the McHarry’s Buslines depot, 6 Reeves Court, Breakwater at 1.00pm.
The AGM is being held in conjunction with our previously announced January 2021 tour and is now being held at Geelong in order to allow tour attendees joining at Geelong to participate.
The 2020 AGM was delayed due to the Covid-19 restrictions in accordance with authorisation from Consumer Affairs Victoria.
Elections for the Committee will be conducted at the AGM along with the presentation of the annual and financial reports.
ANNUAL REPORT
A copy of the annual report for 2020, along with reports for previous years, can be viewed on our website at https://bcsv.org.au/about/annual-reports/
COMMITTEEE ELECTIONS:
Vacant positions include:
Executive Positions:
* President
* Deputy President
* Secretary
* Treasurer
Officers:
* Assistant Secretary
* Tours Organiser
* Historical Research (Heritage/Archive)
* Membership
* Restoration
* Safety
* Publications Editor
* Social Media Officer
* Website & Virtual Museum Content Officer
We’d also welcome those who wish to join us as general committee members.
As always members are encouraged to put themselves forward if they believe they can make a contribution to the Society, particularly helping us organise tours.
NOMINATION FORMS
Nomination forms have been emailed to members and can also be downloaded from our website:
PDF – https://bcsv.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Notice-of-2020-AGM.pdf
DOC – https://bcsv.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Notice-of-2020-AGM.doc
Nominations are welcome via post or email (secretary@bcsv.org.au) by Wednesday 27th January or otherwise can be made in person at the AGM.
PROXY FORMS
Members who are unable to attend the AGM may nominate a proxy by way of a form which clearly identifies the name of the member’s proxy and is signed by the member.
To assist members, an example proxy form has been created but the use of the form is not a requirement.
PDF – https://bcsv.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Proxy-Form-2020-AGM.pdf
WORD – https://bcsv.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Proxy-Form-2020-AGM.doc
Proxy forms should be declared by your nominated proxy at the commencement of the AGM.
They can also be forwarded to The Secretary, Bus & Coach Society of Victoria, PO Box 33, Caulfield East, 3145 to arrive by Wednesday 27th January.
MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS
For those yet to renew their membership for 2020-2021, see https://bcsv.org.au/membership/
Cash payments will be accepted at the McHarry’s tour.
MODEL RULES
A copy of the BCSV model rules can be found on our website – https://bcsv.org.au/about/model-rules/
We encourage all members planning to nominate to familiarise themselves with the model rules ahead of the AGM.
As usual, only eligible BCSV members will be entitled to nominate and vote on the day.

Driver Coaches 90th Anniversary
2021-04-10 12:30 - 2021-04-11 17:30 | Various Pickup Points, Refer to event description
Join the BCSV as we celebrate 90 years of operation for Driver Bus Lines in Melbourne’s eastern & south-eastern suburbs. The tour weekend over two days will include visits to the depots in both Mt Waverley and Hastings and opportunities to photograph and ride the extensive Driver Classics heritage fleet, especially on Saturday afternoon.
Saturday 10th April
MT WAVERLEY DEPOT including DRIVER CLASSICS FLEET SHOWCASE
* Suburban pick up at Oakleigh Station (south side Route 733 stop) 12.30pm.
* Commence at 45-53 Ricketts Road by 1.00pm (street parking is available for those travelling by car).
Opening ceremony, inspection of depot area and small group photography of a variety of pre posed buses around the depot.
During the afternoon there will be further posing buses for photos and bus rides in both heritage and modern vehicles.
Event will conclude around 5.00pm with a transfer available back to Oakleigh Station.
Please note there will be no catering for this afternoon other than the availability of soft drinks so please ensure you have lunched beforehand. No food is to be consumed on site.
Sunday 11th April.
HASTINGS DEPOT
* CBD (Flinders Street near Elizabeth Street westbound V/Line bus stop) pick up 8.30am – UPDATED due to tram works
* Caulfield Station (north side route 900 bus stop) pick up 8.55 am.
* Glen Waverley Bus Interchange (623 bay) pick up 9.00am (Bus 2) – ADDITIONAL STOP ADDED
* Depart Ricketts Rd Mt Waverley (street pick up, no entry to depot this morning) by 9.20am.
* Travel to Hastings depot 6B Bray Street, arriving approx. 10.30am. Street parking in Bray Street is available for those travelling direct to Hastings by car.
10.30am-12 noon depot inspection, posing of buses for photos, bus rides
12 noon – 1.30pm Travel to Hastings foreshore for BBQ lunch.
1.30pm-4.00pm further bus rides and posing of buses for photos.
4.00pm depart Hastings for return to Caulfield, City (approx. 5.30pm) and Ricketts Rd, Mt Waverley.
Costs:
Saturday: Members $5, Non-Members $10. U/18s half price.
Sunday: Members $10, Non-members $20, including BBQ lunch. U/18s half price.
Safety and Covid Requirements (Please read carefully)
Please note that as Driver Coaches are required to have a comprehensive Covid Safe Plan in place for their business, the BCSV event covid plan is required to be consistent with that as far as is possible. A copy of the plan is available for download.
Our sincere thanks to Mark Driver for his guidance and co-operation and to Gary Driver, Ben Knight and Jason Lipszyc for much of the organisation.
Hi Viz vests will be required to be worn inside depot premises and additional Covid safe rules will apply. Be aware that these may be subject to change if there are any changes to Government Health directions.
In addition to recording names in the attendance book, your email address or phone number will also need to be recorded. This applies to both members and non-members.
Masks are to be worn on board the transfer coach, on board any Driver buses taken out for a run but are now not required in buildings. The only exceptions will be those who have demonstrated a medical exemption from mask wearing. Masks will not be required whilst out in the depot yards.
Supplies of hand sanitiser will be available at the depots and on board transfer buses. Please use it regularly during the day and especially before eating lunch. Coughing etiquette (into your elbow) should also be observed.
Please observe social distancing requirements as far as is possible. Please distribute yourselves more or less equally between transfer buses and those used for rides. Opportunities to change bus will be provided.
RSVP
Please advise your attendance on the Facebook event page (BCSV: Bus and Coach Society of Victoria) or email the Secretary at secretary@bcsv.org.au
Fare payment (cash) on the day.

Ventura Artic Riding Day - old & new
2021-05-16 10:30 - 16:30 | Various Pickup Points, Refer to event description
After two successful depot visits, its time for something different.
In 1985-6 Grenda and Invicta were two of the operators to acquire ex Tsukaba Expo Volvo/ Fuji artics.
By 2000 these were wearing out and new Scania L94UA/ Volgren artics replaced them mainly between 2000 and 2003. Now these too have had their day and are currently being replaced by current model Scanias.
On this “riding” tour we plan to use two of the original ex Grenda / ex Invicta (now Ventura) Scania low floor artics that are soon to be retired, both a Dandenong and Lilydale Scania L94UA. During the day, we will swap one for a brand new Scania K360UA.
We thank Andrew Cornwall at Ventura for providing the vehicles, and members Andrew Fairhall, Craig Halsall and Nathan Lawlor for the organisation.
Itinerary:
Pick-up Ringwood Station – 963/969 Night Bus stop on Maroondah Hwy – 10:00 (1 bus)
Pick-up Dandenong Station – V/Line bay – 10:30 (2 buses)
Lunch at Dandenong Plaza 13:30 – 14:30 at you own expense
Drop-off Dandenong Station 16:30 (1 Bus)
Drop-off Ringwood Station 16:45 (1 bus)
Advance notices suggest buses will be replacing trains Camberwell to Belgrave and Lilydale on that weekend, so Dandenong is strongly recommended for those coming from the City.
Tour cost:
Free for members, non-members $10 or free if they join for 2021-22 on the day.
COVID-SAFE requirements
The Covid requirements for the tour will involve mask wearing whilst on vehicles along with the use of hand sanitiser.

BCSV daytrip to MOVE museum (Shepparton)
2022-01-29 08:20 - 18:00 | Museum of Vehicle Evolution (MOVE), 7723 Goulburn Valley Hwy,, Kialla, VIC, 3630, Australia
Following the official opening of the expanded Museum of Vehicle Evolution in Shepparton in November, and the placement of five buses into the display, the Bus & Coach Society of Victoria is planning to make a visit for the bus enthusiast community on Saturday 29th January 2022.

This will be a full day trip, with lunch provided in Shepparton.

AGM:
We will also take the opportunity to hold our Annual General Meeting (deferred due to COVID-19 restrictions) at the MOVE facility where they have a conference room.

Formal notification of the AGM can be found on our website – https://bcsv.org.au/event/bcsv-agm-2021-2022/

TRANSFER BUSES:
Due to RSVP numbers, we are now taking only one bus from the Driver depot and that bus will pick up at Oakleigh, now also at Caulfield and in the City. It means an earlier start.
For regional attendees and those living Melbourne’s west, we have also added an additional Deer Park pick-up which will wait for trains from Geelong and Ballarat.
Buses will leave from a number of points in Melbourne:
BUS 1 (DRIVER GROUP)
note earlier times & extra Caulfield pickup
* Mount Waverley Depot – Ricketts Rd 7:50am
* Oakleigh Station (south side bus stop route 733 – Johnson St) 8am
* Caulfield Station (north side bus stop route 624 Kew – Sir John Monash Dr) 8.20am
* Southern Cross Station (216 bus stop on Spencer St opposite Lonsdale Street, near Coles) 8:50am
BUS 2 (SUNSHINE SCENIC TOURS)
note extra Deer Park pickup
* Deer Park Station carpark (rail replacement stop) 8:30am
* Broadmeadows Station (general bus stops – Pascoe Vale Rd) 9am
There will be a 15-minute toilet stop at Wallan where attendees will be able to change vehicles. On the return we will do the same at Tallarook.
For anyone making their own way to the Museum, we aim to arrive by 11:30am. Please wait for the buses to arrive.
Our return arrangements will be a departure by 3:30pm with a drop off at the various Melbourne pick up sites by 6:00pm.
COVID-19 REQUIREMENTS
Attendees of the daytrip and AGM are required to be double vaccinated and to use the QR code check-in on the buses and at the museum.
Masks are to be worn on the buses and as directed by MOVE staff at the Museum. Hand sanitiser will be available throughout the tour and AGM. Attendees should socially distance as much as the circumstances allow.

COST:
The tour will be free for BCSV members with non-members to be charged $20. This includes entrance to the museum and lunch.

New members can join on the day and not have to pay to attend – https://bcsv.org.au/membership/
RSVP:
Select “Going” on the Facebook event page – https://www.facebook.com/events/223291673292382
Alternatively, email secretary Paul Kennelly at secretary@bcsv.org.au

BCSV AGM 2021/2022
2022-01-29 13:00 - 14:00 | Museum of Vehicle Evolution (MOVE), 7723 Goulburn Valley Hwy,, Kialla, VIC, 3630, Australia
AGM NOTICE & LOCATION
The 2021/2022 Annual General Meeting of the Bus and Coach Society of Victoria will be held on Saturday 29th January 2022 at the Museum of Vehicle Evolution, 7723 Goulburn Valley Highway, Kialla at approximately 1.00pm
The AGM is being held in conjunction with our previously announced daytrip to the museum.
The 2021/2022 AGM was delayed due to the COVID-19 restrictions in accordance with authorisation from Consumer Affairs Victoria.
Elections for the Committee will be conducted at the AGM along with the presentation of the annual and financial reports.
COVID-19 REQUIREMENTS
Attendees of the daytrip and AGM are required to be double vaccinated and to use the QR code check-in on the buses and at the museum.
Masks are to be worn on the buses and as directed by MOVE staff at the Museum. Hand sanitiser will be available throughout the tour and AGM. Attendees should socially distance as much as the circumstances allow.
MINUTES OF THE 2020 AGM
Attendees may review the minutes of the 2020 AGM held at McHarry’s in Breakwater, including the election of the new committee.
ANNUAL REPORT
Outgoing secretary Paul Kennelly has prepared an annual report detailing the societies’ activities and financial records over the 2020/2021 financial year.
COMMITTEEE ELECTIONS:
Vacant positions include:
Executive Positions:
* President
* Deputy President
* Secretary
* Treasurer
Officers:
* Assistant Secretary
* Tours Organiser
* Historical Research (Heritage/Archive)
* Membership
* Restoration
* Safety
* Publications Editor
* Social Media Officer
* Website & Virtual Museum Content Officer
We’d also welcome those who wish to join us as general committee members.
As always members are encouraged to put themselves forward if they believe they can make a contribution to the Society, particularly helping us organise tours.
SPECIAL RESOULTION
As part of the AGM, the Committee is asking members to consider the following special resolution:
That this AGM
(a) ratifies the decision of the Committee to take up the option of two fully funded display positions at the Museum of Vehicle Evolution at Shepparton for an initial period of 12 months (November 2021 – November 2022) at $2,500 per position (plus GST) for a total cost of $5,000 (plus GST),
(b) directs the Committee to seek sponsorships from members to fund, or part fund, the annual cost, and according to level of sponsorship received, to fund any deficit from reserves and/or from an agreed co-contribution from the owner of the bus being displayed,
(c) directs the Committee to seek expressions of interest from both operator and individual members for vehicles to be rotated through the Museum during the 2022 year, and any subsequent year, in the Society’s two positions,
(d) directs the Committee to undertake an evaluation of the program with a view to presenting a recommendation at the September 2022 AGM for continuance (or otherwise) in the program for a period of up to three years.
NOMINATION & PROXY FORMS
Nomination forms have been emailed to members and can also be downloaded from our website:
PDF – https://bcsv.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Notice-of-2021-AGM.pdf
DOC – https://bcsv.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Notice-of-2021-AGM.doc
Nominations can be forwarded to The Secretary, Bus & Coach Society of Victoria, PO Box 33, Caulfield East, 3145 or to secretary@bcsv.org.au to arrive by Wednesday 26th January 2022 or be made in person at the AGM.
Members who are unable to attend the AGM may nominate a proxy by way of a form which clearly identifies the name of the member’s proxy and is signed by the member. An example proxy form has been created (see link above), however, use of this form is not required.
Proxy forms should be declared by your nominated proxy at the commencement of the AGM.
They can also be forwarded to The Secretary, Bus & Coach Society of Victoria, PO Box 33, Caulfield East, 3145 to arrive by Wednesday 26th January.
Digital copies will be accepted at secretary@bcsv.org.au up to 24 hours before the meeting time i.e. by 1pm on Friday 28th January 2022.
MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS
For those yet to renew their membership for 2021-2022, see https://bcsv.org.au/membership/
Cash payments will be accepted on the day.
RULES
A copy of the BCSV rules can be found on our website – https://bcsv.org.au/about/model-rules/
We encourage all members planning to nominate to familiarise themselves with the rules ahead of the AGM.
As usual, only eligible BCSV members will be entitled to nominate and vote on the day.

BCSV March Meeting: 2020 & 2021 Reflections (Special venue)
2022-03-20 15:00 - 17:00 | Driver Bus Lines, 45-53 Ricketts Road, Mount Waverley, Victoria, 3149, Australia
After a two year break, the BCSV are excited to announce that our bi-monthly Sunday social meetings are finally back on Sunday 20 March at 3pm. NOTE THE VENUE CHANGE BELOW.
Geoff Foster will take a retrospective look on bus industry highlights around Victoria and Australia over the past two years. This has been a unique time when many of us haven’t been able travel far due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Both BCSV members and guests are welcome, free admission.
SPECIAL VENUE – DRIVER BUS LINES DEPOT, MT WAVERLEY
Unfortunately, we are unable to access Hawthorn Tram Museum as the Museum Committee has not yet met to approve the use of rooms for meetings.
In good news however, we have arranged for the use of Driver’s depot in Mt Waverley as an alternative and we thank Gary Driver for this.
The depot is at 45-53 Ricketts Road Mt Waverley. There is ample parking in Ricketts Road.
Attendees are asked to assemble in the car park outside the entrance to the office at about 2.50pm.
The meeting will close at about 5pm with tea and coffee afterwards, with a chance for people to catch up and share industry gossip.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT:
For those using public transport, Route 693 leaves from Oakleigh Station at 2.23pm and stops at Gilby Road in Ferntree Gully Road at 2:35pm The depot is a 5 minute walk to the other end of Gilby Road.
Route 703 leaves from Syndal Station at 2:35pm and travels along Blackburn Road to Ricketts Road arriving about 2:40pm. This is also with a five minute walk to the depot, waking west along Ricketts Road.
Route 737 from Croydon also travels along Blackburn Rd.

BCSV May Meeting - Guest Speaker: Lisa Faldon (TSV)
2022-05-15 15:00 - 17:00 | Driver Bus Lines, 45-53 Ricketts Road, Mount Waverley, Victoria, 3149, Australia
The Bus & Coach Society of Victoria (BCSV) is excited to welcome guest speaker Lisa Faldon from Transport Safety Victoria for our May social meeting at 3pm on Sunday 15 May 2022.
This meeting was postponed in July 2020.
Lisa was appointed Director, Bus Safety in November 2019 after acting in the role since October 2018. Previous roles at TSV since 2016 have included Acting Director, Maritime Safety and the Manager of Research, Strategy and Risk.
Lisa will provide the audience with special insight into Transport Safety Victoria’s role to enforce safety and accreditation standards across the bus industry.
The meeting will close at about 5pm with tea and coffee afterwards and a chance to share the latest bus industry gossip.
Both members and guests are welcome, free admission.
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VENUE: MT WAVERLEY – DRIVER BUS LINES DEPOT
We will once again meet at the Driver Bus Lines depot at 45-53 Ricketts Road Mt Waverley, with thanks to Gary Driver.
There is ample parking in Ricketts Road. Attendees are asked to assemble in the car park outside the entrance to the office at about 2.50pm.
For those using public transport, Route 693 leaves from Oakleigh Station at 2.23pm and stops at Gilby Road in Ferntree Gully Road and the depot is a 5 minute walk to the other end of Gilby Road.
Alternatively, Route 703 from Syndal Station at 2.35pm travels along Blackburn Road to Rickett’s Road also with a five minute walk to the depot west down Ricketts Road.
Route 737 from Croydon also travels along Blackburn Rd.
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BCSV: Ryans and Moonee Valley Tour
2022-06-25 10:00 - 16:00 | Various Pickup Points, Refer to event description
Our next tour for 2022 will be held on Saturday 25 June when we will visit two nearby operators in Melbourne’s north west. One, Moonee Valley Coaches we have visited regularly, the other Ryans has not been visited for more than 20 years. Our thanks go to the Ryan and Higginson families for their hospitality.

They day will commence at Ryans, 11 Beverage Drive, Tullamarine, at 10.00 am where we will have the chance to inspect and ride in a range of vehicles both old and current.

Somewhere between noon and 12.30 we will move just down the road to Moonee Valley Bus Lines where a BBQ lunch will be provided followed by a chance to view their most recently completed restoration project as well as other fleet vehicles.

TOUR UPDATE – BY POPULAR DEMAND!
With strong attendance expected, a second transfer bus will now be provided. An extra pickup will be made at Caulfield while our Ringwood departure will move slightly later.
TRANSFER BUS #1
* Ringwood Station bus interchange – 8:45am
* Southern Cross Station (216 stop on Spencer St near Coles) – 9:30am
TRANSFER BUS #2
* Oakleigh Station (south side) – Johnson St – 9am
* Caulfield Station (north side) – 624 Kew Stop, Sir John Monash Dr – 9:15am
Buses will remain under wraps until the day.

The transfer buses will return to these locations at the end of the day with the city set down aimed to be at 4.00pm.

Please advise of your intended attendance so that catering requirements can be estimated. Select “Going” on the Facebook event page or email Secretary Paul Kennelly secretary@bcsv.org.au

Tour cost is $10 for members and $15 for non-members. Under 18s half price.

BCSV July Meeting: Northern NSW buses ('70s to '90s)
2022-07-17 15:00 - 17:15 | Melbourne Tram Museum (Hawthorn Tram Depot), 8 Wallen Rd, Hawthorn, Victoria, 3122, Australia
We are pleased to announce that our BCSV social meetings venue will return to the Melbourne Tram Museum, beginning Sunday 17th July at 3pm.

Geoff Foster will present Northern NSW buses from the 70s to the 90s.

Each meeting concludes with a short afternoon tea and chatter on the latest industry gossip.

Both members and guests are welcome to attend, free admission.

LOCATION:
Our bi-monthly Sunday meetings are held at Hawthorn Tram Depot / Melbourne Tram Museum, 8 Wallen Rd, near the corner of Power St.

Alight Tram Routes 70 & 75 at Riversdale Junction. Alternatively, Hawthorn Station on the Belgrave/Lilydale line is a short 10 min walk away.

BCSV 2022 AGM + Grenda's Retrospective
2022-09-18 15:00 - 17:30 | Melbourne Tram Museum (Hawthorn Tram Depot), 8 Wallen Rd, Hawthorn, Victoria, 3122, Australia
The Bus and Coach Society of Victoria (BCSV) Annual General Meeting is to be held on Sunday 18th September at the Hawthorn Tram depot / Melbourne Tram Museum at 3pm.

After the AGM proceedings, Paul Kennelly will present a retrospective on Grenda’s Bus Service covering the era from 1945 to 1990.

Hawthorn Tram Depot is located at 8 Wallen Road Hawthorn, near the corner of Power Street and Riversdale Road. Tram Routes 70 & 75 stop outside, with Hawthorn Station a 10 minute walk away.

ELECTIONS
Elections for the Committee will be conducted at the AGM along with the presentation of the annual and financial reports.

Vacant positions include:

Executive Positions:
* President
* Deputy President
* Secretary
* Treasurer

Officers:
* Assistant Secretary
* Tours Organiser
* Historical Research (Heritage/Archive)
* Membership
* Restoration
* Safety
* Publications Editor
* Social Media Officer
* Website & Virtual Museum Content Officer

We’d also welcome those who wish to join us as general committee members.
As always members are encouraged to put themselves forward if they believe they can make a contribution to the Society, particularly helping us organise tours.
NOMINATION FORMS
Nomination forms will be emailed to members two weeks before the AGM. They can be downloaded from our website:
DOC – https://bcsv.org.au/wp…/uploads/Notice-of-2022-AGM.doc
PDF – https://bcsv.org.au/wp…/uploads/Notice-of-2022-AGM.pdf

PROXY FORMS
Members who are unable to attend the AGM may nominate a proxy by way of a form which clearly identifies the name of the member’s proxy and is signed by the member.
To assist members, an example proxy form has been prepared.
DOC – https://bcsv.org.au/…/upl…/2022-BCSV-AGM-Proxy-form.docx
PDF – https://bcsv.org.au/…/uploads/2022-BCSV-AGM-Proxy-form.pdf

Proxy forms should be declared by your nominated proxy at the commencement of the AGM.

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS
For those yet to renew their membership, see https://bcsv.org.au/membership/

Members must be paid up for 2022/2023 to vote in the election.

AGM LOCATION
Our bi-monthly Sunday social meetings are held at Hawthorn Tram Depot / Melbourne Tram Museum, 8 Wallen Rd, near the corner of Power St.

Alight Tram Routes 70 & 75 at Riversdale Junction. Alternatively, Hawthorn Station on the Belgrave/Lilydale line is a short 10 min walk away.

Each meeting concludes with a short afternoon tea and chatter on the latest industry gossip.
Both members and guests are welcome, free admission.

MODEL RULES
A copy of the BCSV model rules can be found on our website – https://bcsv.org.au/about/model-rules/

We encourage all members planning to nominate to familiarise themselves with the model rules ahead of the AGM

BCSV November Meeting: Invicta/Croydon Bus Service memories
2022-11-20 15:00 - 17:30 | Melbourne Tram Museum (Hawthorn Tram Depot), 8 Wallen Rd, Hawthorn, Victoria, 3122, Australia
Our next BCSV social meeting will be at the Melbourne Tram Museum in Hawthorn on Sunday 20th November at 3pm.

We will reflect on the glory days of Croydon Bus Service, Invicta United and Invicta in Melbourne’s outer east, before the sale to Grenda Corporation in February 2009.

We are delighted that second generation owner John Usher will be joining us to provide countless insights and memories, including the formation of TeleBus in October 1977.

Each meeting concludes with a short afternoon tea and chatter on the latest industry gossip.

Both members and guests are welcome to attend, free admission. RSVP appreciated by the Facebook event page or email to secretary@bcsv.org.au

LOCATION:
Our bi-monthly Sunday meetings are held at Hawthorn Tram Depot / Melbourne Tram Museum, 8 Wallen Rd, near the corner of Power St.Alight Tram Routes 70 & 75 at Riversdale Junction. Alternatively, Hawthorn Station on the Belgrave/Lilydale line is a short 10 min walk away.

Historic Commercial Vehicle Display - Yarra Glen *NEW DATE*
2023-02-19 09:00 - 15:00 | Yarra Glen Racecourse, Armstrong Grove, Yarra Glen, Victoria, 3775, Australia
IMPORTANT UPDATE
Sadly the event will be postponed to the new year, now to be held on SUNDAY 19th FEBRUARY 2023 (HCVCA dinner on the 18th). This follows recent flooding in the area and another wet weekend ahead.
Thanks to HCVC (Historic Commercial Vehicle Club of AUST.) and Yarra Glen Racecourse for arranging another date for us.
More time to give our buses and trucks some love over summer!
A statement from HCVCA can be found on their Facebook Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/hcvca/posts/3398244760410711
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DISPLAY DETAILS
Join the HCVCA (Historic Commercial Vehicle Club of Australia) and BCSV (Bus and Coach Society of Victoria) for a relaxing day out at Yarra Glen Racecourse on Sunday 19 February enjoying the 41st Historic Commercial Vehicle Display, with the HCVCA also celebrating their golden anniversary this year.
Entry is $10 per person with under 14s free! Free parking on site.
Inspect some of the hundreds of vehicles on display, from vintage trucks, buses and tractors, to steam engines and older cars.
Bus operators who regularly take part include Driver Bus Lines, Moonee Valley Coaches, Dysons, Ventura, Diamond Coaches, John Usher’s Invicta collection, among others.
There will be kids amusements, including face-painting and a jumping castle, and also a Touch A Truck section where kids are able to hop into trucks and have a squizz how they all work.
Enjoy live music all day, rocker cover races, which always draws a huge crowd, trade stalls, and of course delicious food and drink stalls.
HCVCA will also draw the much anticipated Tool Box Raffle at approx 2:30pm.
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DISPLAY DAY SHUTTLE BUS
On Sunday 19 February a transfer bus will depart the Driver Bus Lines depot at 45-53 Ricketts Rd, Mt Waverley at 8:30am

Montrose Bus & Coach will operate a second transfer bus from Lilydale Station at 9:20am.
Please be aware that there are works in the City Loop and between Camberwell & Box Hill which require catching an earlier train to meet the transfer bus at Lilydale.

We suggest:
1 – Catch the 7:46am train from Flinders Street (direct to Richmond), arriving Camberwell at 8:01am
2 – At Camberwell take an EXPRESS bus to Box Hill which will arrive in time for the 8;42am train to Lilydale (the express bus is not in the Public Transport Victoria journey planner)
3 – Take the 8:42am Lilydale train at Box Hill and arrive Lilydale at 9:14am.
4 – Look for the transfer bus supplied from Montrose Bus & Coach departing at 9:20am. This will depart from the 683/684 stop located on Maroondah Hwy (near Professionals Real Estate)

If you are unable to reach the City by 7:45am, you can join us late morning by taking the 684 bus and changing to the 685 at Coldstream.
1 – Take 684 bus from Southern Cross Coach Terminal at 9:45am, arriving Coldstream at 10:46am (touch off for a Zone 1+2 fare!)
2 – Take 685 bus from Coldstream at 11;07am
3 – Alight at Yarra Glen Racecourse at approx 11:20am

Alternatively, get a later train to Lilydale to connect with the 11am 685 departure (the 9:16am direct train from Flinders Street should meet the bus with transfers at Camberwell, Box Hill and Ringwood)

The return transfer buses will depart from Yarra Glen shortly after 3pm, returning to Lilydale by 3:45pm-4pm & Mt Waverley around 4:30pm.

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MEMBERS’ PREVIEW

BCSV members should refer to their email sent Tuesday 14 February for details on the members’ preview on Saturday afternoon.

Any interstate attendees are also welcome and can email Paul Kennelly (secretary@bcsv.org.au) for details

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BRINGING A VEHICLE?
BUSES & COACHES
Owners of preserved buses wishing to present their vehicles can contact BCSV Secretary Paul Kennelly via secretary@bcsv.org.au for further details, or call him on (03) 9509 1593

Parking is available from 3pm Saturday afternoon for those wishing to secure a prime position or group their fleet together.

Vehicles should arrive by 9am Sunday and must remain in position until 3pm on Sunday.

TRUCKS & TRACTORS
Those wishing to present preserved trucks, tractors or other machinery should contact the HCVCA directly for bookings.
Contact one of the following people:
Russ – 0409 073 523
Dave – 0412 063 357

BCSV Weekender to Echuca, Deniliquin & Shepparton
2023-03-25 08:00 - 2023-03-26 18:00 | Various Pickup Points, Refer to event description
Expressions of interest are invited for a Bus & Coach Society Victoria weekender bus tour on 25th/26th March, visiting the Echuca, Deniliquin & Shepparton.

Tour coaches will be provided by Driver’s and Moonee Valley Coaches.

ITINERARY
Our major highlight will be visiting The Depot museum, run by the Purtill family, in Deniliquin. Details of this Museum can be found here: The Depot – Historic Vehicle and Memorabilia Collection
On the way to and from Deniliquin, we will visit a number of operators in the Echuca/Moama area, with details still being finalised and to be announced in the new year.

On the Saturday, we will have a BBQ lunch in Echuca and then travel to Deniliquin to visit The Depot museum in the afternoon.

After check-in at the hotels, attendees will make their dinner arrangements in the town in the evening.

We will have breakfast on the Sunday morning at the Cruizin* Diner, which is associated with The Depot museum. This will be at your cost. An indicative menu can be found here.

After breakfast, we will visit Dyson’s operation in Deniliquin.

On the journey home, we will call in at MOVE, the Shepparton Motor Museum, to see the latest display and have a BBQ lunch.

A final tour update is to come but we can confirm pickup details as follows:
DRIVER COACH
* Driver Bus Lines Depot (Ricketts Rd Mt Waverley) – arrive by 7am for 7:10am departure (park in staff carpark out the front)
* Caulfield station (624 Kew stop in Sir John Monash Dr) – 7:30am
* Southern Cross (216 stop on Spencer St near Lonsdale St/Coles) – 8am
MOONEE VALLEY COACH
* Moonee Valley Coaches depot (6 Tullamarine Park Dr) – arrive by 8am (secure parking in vistors’ carpark overnight)
We plan to return to Southern Cross & Moonee Valley Coaches around 6pm on Sunday evening

ACCOMMODATION & DEPOSITS
We have tentatively booked a number of motels in Deniliquin with a range of prices to suit a range of budgets.

The links to their websites, along with costs, are provided for your consideration:

(1) Country Club Deniliquin
Single $125 or Twin-share $155 ($77.50pp)
(www.countryclubdeni.com.au)
(2) Centrepoint Motel
Single $140
(www.centrepointmotel.net.au)
(3) Riviana Motel
Single $110 (http://riviana-motel.newsouthwaleshotels.net/en/)

Attendees are advised to check their emails regarding tour deposits – $50 BCSV members/$70 others. Deposits are due by Friday 10 March
This will confirm your seat on the tour coaches. You’ll then pay the motel for discounted accommodation directly upon arrival in Deniliquin (check your email for which room you have secured & cost)

TOUR COST
Tour cost will be $50 for members (and subject to available space, non-members $70), which is in addition to your accommodation cost above.
The tour cost will include the two BBQ lunches, but not dinner and breakfast in Deniliquin.

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST
Limited rooms are still available at Riviana Motel ($110) – email secretary@bcsv.org.au if interested ASAP. Bookings close on Friday 10 March

Nuline Charter / Bayside Coaches - 25th Anniversary Tour
2023-04-23 09:00 - 17:00 | Various Pickup Points, Refer to event description
The Bus & Coach Society of Victoria is planning to visit the three depots of Nuline Charter and Bayside Coaches in Moorabbin, Clayton and Spotswood on Sunday 23 April as part of an all-day tour, open to both BCSV members and guests.

The day will include rides on a variety of vehicles in the predominantly Volvo fleet. The availability of the low floor rail fleet for rides and photos will be subject to Metro Trains “Big Build” occupations occurring on the day of our visit.

This tour will mark the 25 year anniversary of Nuline Charter under the sterling leadership of Geoff Vickers & Andrew Czarnecki, growing the business to over 120 vehicles today.

On 9 February 1998 Geoff Vickers & Andrew Czarnecki of Bayside Coaches purchased 21 vehicles from Craig Coop of Nuline Bus Services and renamed the operation as Nuline Charter.

A highlight of the day will be sampling #111, a 1997 Scania K93 Austral Pacific ‘XL” (see event cover photo by Jason Lipszyc) recently repainted back to original colours. This is the only original vehicle purchased by Craig Coop (Nuline Bus Service) still with the Nuline Charter fleet and remains in ad-hoc use. This bus was renumbered from #100 after being semi-withdrawn during the many COVID-19 lockdowns, before being called back into action as charter demand returned. #100 was also its original number at Nuline Bus Service.
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COST

The tour cost will be $10 for members (u/18 half fare) and $20 for non-members (u/18 half fare). This will include a BBQ lunch and a special commemorative CD.
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NEW MEMBERS
Annual adult membership is currently just $50 & a concession rate of $40 for pensioners and students under 25.

We are offering a special “Welcome Bonus” membership rate for the 2023/2024 financial year to anyone joining us between now and June 30 2023.
This will include the discounted members’ fare on the Nuline 25th anniversary tour on Sunday 23 April plus a copy of the May 2023 Australian Bus Panorama magazine…a saving of up to $19!
Payment can be made online in advance or alternatively cash payments on the day.

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PICK-UP INFO

Pick-up locations are as follows:
* 8:00am – Nuline Clayton depot at 36-44 Whiteside Road (please park all cars in drivers’ carpark, entering off Whiteside Rd, please do not walk around depot)
* 8:05am – Clayton Station (rail replacement bus stop on Carnish Rd)
* 8:30am – Caulfield Station (North Side Route 900 bus stop on Sir John Monash Dr)
* 9:00am – Southern Cross Station (Route 216 bus stop outside Coles, near Lonsdale St)

Alternatively, meet outside the Nuline Spotswood depot (176 Hall St) opposite Spotswood Station by 9:20am. (Please wait outside for our arrival). Note the transfer coach does not return in the afternoon, see below.

Afternoon drop-offs:
* 4pm tour conclusion at Nuline Clayton depot
* 4:05pm – Clayton Station
* 4:30pm – Caulfield Station

Those returning back to Southern Cross or Spotswood will need to catch a train from Caulfield (every 10 mins). 24 mins to Southern Cross & 38 mins to Spotswood.

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RSVP

Please advise your attendance on the day by email to secretary@bcsv.org.au to aid in catering & demand for a second transfer vehicle. Any special dietary requirements should also be advised.

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HI-VIS VESTS

As usual, hi-vis vests / shirts will be required to be worn within depots. Pick one up for about $10 from Kmart, Bunnings, Lowes, discount shops etc.

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AN ABRIDGED HISTORY OF NULINE

The Nuline brand has been synonymous with Melbourne’s south-east since 1949 when a business syndicate, headed by Charlie Spence, acquired two routes in the Caulfield area from Mr Lee, who had purchased the routes from Eastern Suburbs Omnibus Service (ESOS) 6 months earlier.

The business has gone through multiple owners in the decades since including Joe Bellofiori & Ray Higginson (Moonee Valley Bus Lines) in March 1972 and Craig Coop in January 1987.

Under Craig Coop Nuline acquired 7 buses and the Centre Rd depot from the Bentleigh Charter 14 August 1988, previously operated by the Suhr family. Bentleigh Bus Lines’ route services had previously been sold to Ventura effective 27 April 1987.

Nuline continued to run local routes focused on Moorabbin & Brighton until 30 September 1991 when they transferred these across to Grenda’s/Moorabbin Transit. In exchange they took over the former Camden 627 Elsternwick – Chadstone – East Brighton route from Moorabbin Transit. Craig Coop soon sold the route to Driver Bus Lines on 1 May 1992.

The most recent ownership chapter began on 9 February 1998 when Geoff Vickers & Andrew Czarnecki of Bayside Coaches purchased 21 vehicles from Craig Coop of Nuline Bus Services and renamed the operation as Nuline Charter. The focus in the years since has been school and general charter along with a rapidly expanding fleet of rail replacement buses.

Nuline Bus Services remained as a trading name for Craig Coop (mostly for school charter work) until the majority of his vehicles were sold to Diamond Coaches in Melbourne’s north-east in September 2018.

Andrew and Geoff had previously acquired two vehicles from Craig Coop on September 23 1995 to form Czarvic Pty Ltd, trading as Bayside Coaches. Bayside Coaches continues as a premium brand alongside Nuline Charter.

In mid 2021 Nuline absorbed Victorian Touring Coaches from Bill Armstrong via liquidators; another long-standing operation also dating back from 1949 which sadly fell victim to the rolling COVID-19 lockdowns in Victoria.

Most recently effective 1 February 2023 they have purchased the Jay Tee Coaches business from John Trenfield, but not the vehicles.

BCSV May Meeting: An afternoon with Cos Sita
2023-05-21 15:00 - 17:00 | Melbourne Tram Museum (Hawthorn Tram Depot), 8 Wallen Rd, Hawthorn, Victoria, 3122, Australia
The BCSV are pleased to welcome Cos Sita as our special guest speaker for our May Sunday meeting on 21 May 2023.

This is our fourth attempt at scheduling this talk after Cos became unavailable at short notice twice in 2019, with the Covid pandemic in 2020 causing a third postponement. Fingers and toes crossed!

Cos will reflect on his many decades running Sita Bus Lines in Melbourne’s west alongside his father George and brother Dom, before the sale to Transit Systems in April 2019.

Our bi-monthly Sunday meetings are held at Hawthorn Tram Depot / Melbourne Tram Museum, 8 Wallen Rd, near the corner of Power St.

Alight Tram Routes 70 & 75 at Riversdale Junction. Alternatively, Hawthorn Station on the Belgrave/Lilydale line is a short 10 min walk away.

Each meeting concludes with a short afternoon tea and chatter on the latest industry gossip.

Both members and guests are welcome, free admission.

BCSV July Meeting: Reservoir Reflections
2023-07-16 15:00 - 17:00 | Melbourne Tram Museum (Hawthorn Tram Depot), 8 Wallen Rd, Hawthorn, Victoria, 3122, Australia
The BCSV are pleased to welcome Peter Cooper as our special guest for our July Sunday meeting at 3pm on 16 July 2023 at Melbourne Tram Museum in Hawthorn.
Peter Cooper is a son of Pat Cooper who started East Preston & Epping BS back in 1954. This company combined with the other operator on the routes, Webb & Williamson, in 1964 and the company was officially renamed Reservoir Bus Company in 1968.
The Cooper family were also involved in the East-West and Melbourne Bus Link partnerships with Dysons, and played a role in the SmartBus orbitals which absorbed East-West Routes 560 & 571 in 2010.
Peter will add his insights of being involved in the company over many years before the Cooper family ultimately sold to Dysons in November 2012. Their shares in East-West Bus Company were sold in February 2014.
Our bi-monthly Sunday meetings are held at Hawthorn Tram Depot / Melbourne Tram Museum, 8 Wallen Rd, near the corner of Power St.
Alight Tram Routes 70 & 75 at Riversdale Junction. Alternatively, Hawthorn Station on the Belgrave/Lilydale line is a short 10 min walk away.
Each meeting ends with afternoon tea, industry gossip and a chance to catch up with fellow enthusiasts.

BCSV: Farewell Ventura Northcoasts Tour
2023-09-10 09:00 - 17:00 | Various Pickup Points, Refer to event description
After 25 years, the Northcoast low floor era at Ventura Bus Lines in Melbourne’s east is coming to an end.

Peaking at 33 units (31 Scania & 2 Mercedes) by the end of 2003, just 8 of these buses remain in active service, most now downgraded to school and rail replacement work. Fleet renewal continues at a steady rate, with their days at Ventura sadly appearing numbered.

Ventura was second only to Metro Tasmania in favouring these buses of a large scale (Metro purchasing 42 Scania L94UB Northcoasts) and we feel it’s fitting for them to have a warm send-off from Melbourne.

Ventura management have kindly given the Bus & Coach Society of Victoria approval for a farewell tour, to be held on Sunday 10 September using a variety of the remaining buses.

Our day will focus on the traditional routes these buses were used on from their days at Oakleigh, Knoxfield and Croydon (Mt Dandy Bus) depots.

PICK UP LOCATIONS:
* BUS 1 – Dandenong Station (V/Line bay) – 9am
* BUS 2 – Ringwood Station (Maroondah Hwy bus bays) 8:50am
* BUSES 1 & 2 – Oakleigh Station (south side/Johnson St) – 9:30am (meets 9:02am Pakenham train from Flinders St)

Please note buses replace trains Blackburn to Belgrave/Lilydale next weekend

Attendees can switch vehicles throughout the day.

Buses will return to Oakleigh about 4:30pm and Dandenong & Ringwood about 5pm

LUNCH
A 45 min lunch stop at Boronia will provided (own expense)

FARES (cash-only)
Free for BCSV members
$15 for non-members ($10 for under 18s)

NEW MEMBERS
New members can join on the day for 2023/2024 for a members’ fare ($0) PLUS receive back-copies of both the July & September editions of our Australia Bus Panorama magazine

Annual BCSV membership is $50 (adults) and $40 (concession) – https://bcsv.org.au/membership/

RSVP
Please RSVP by sending an email to secretary@bcsv.org.au or calling Paul Kennelly (BCSV secretary) on (03) 9509 1593
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BCSV 2023 AGM + More European Buses
2023-09-17 15:00 - 17:00 | Melbourne Tram Museum (Hawthorn Tram Depot), 8 Wallen Rd, Hawthorn, Victoria, 3122, Australia
The Bus and Coach Society of Victoria (BCSV) Annual General Meeting is to be held on Sunday 17th September at the Hawthorn Tram depot / Melbourne Tram Museum at 3pm.

After the AGM proceedings, Geoff Foster will present highlights from his latest European expedition across Austria, Hungary and the Czech Republic.

Both members and guests are welcome, free admission. Members must be paid up for 2023/2024 to vote in the election of committee members.

ELECTIONS
Elections for the Committee will be conducted at the AGM along with the presentation of the annual and financial reports.Vacant positions include:

Executive Positions:

President
Deputy President
Secretary
Treasurer

Officers:

Assistant Secretary
Tours Organiser
Historical Research (Heritage/Archive)
Membership
Restoration
Safety
Publications Editor
Social Media
Website & Virtual Museum Content

We’d also welcome those who wish to join us as general committee members.

As always members are encouraged to put themselves forward if they believe they can make a contribution to the Society, particularly helping us organise tours.

NOMINATION FORMS
Nomination forms have been emailed to members ahead of the AGM. They can be downloaded from our website:
DOC – https://bcsv.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023-BCSV-AGM-Nomination-form.doc
PDF – https://bcsv.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023-BCSV-AGM-Nomination-form.pdf

PROXY FORMS
Members who are unable to attend the AGM may nominate a proxy by way of a form which clearly identifies the name of the member’s proxy and is signed by the member.

To assist members, an example proxy form has been prepared.
DOC – https://bcsv.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023-BCSV-AGM-Proxy-form.docx
PDF – https://bcsv.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023-BCSV-AGM-Proxy-form.pdf

Proxy forms should be declared by your nominated proxy at the commencement of the AGM.

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS
For those yet to renew their membership, see https://bcsv.org.au/membership/

AGM LOCATION
Our bi-monthly Sunday social meetings are held at Hawthorn Tram Depot / Melbourne Tram Museum, 8 Wallen Rd, near the corner of Power St.
Alight Tram Routes 70 & 75 at Riversdale Junction. Alternatively, Hawthorn Station on the Belgrave/Lilydale line is a short 10 min walk away.

AFTERNOON TEA
Each meeting concludes with a short afternoon tea and chatter on the latest industry gossip.

MODEL RULES
A copy of the BCSV model rules can be found on our website – https://bcsv.org.au/about/model-rules/

We encourage all members planning to nominate to familiarise themselves with the model rules ahead of the AGM

BCSV: Benalla & Wangaratta tour
2023-10-07 08:00 - 18:00 | Various Pickup Points, Refer to event description
On Saturday 7th October the Bus & Coach Society will head to North-East Victoria to visit both Benalla Bus Lines and Wangaratta Coachlines for depot visits and to sample the variety in both fleets.

This is a day tour with transfer coaches to be provided by Montrose Bus & Coach and Mee’s Bus Lines for which we are grateful.

Cost is $10 for members and $20 for non-members (U/18 half price). Lunch is included.

The tour will start at Southern Cross Station at 8am. Other pick-up times and locations will be advised closer to the tour.

BCSV February Tour: Martyrs & McKenzies
2024-02-24 10:00 - 16:30 | Various Pickup Points, Refer to event description
The BCSV’s first event for 2024 will be a depot tour of both Martyrs and McKenzies on Saturday 24th of February 2024. Rides will also feature at both depots.
PICK-UP UPDATE
Following changes to the Level Crossing Removal line closures, the tour will now have two pickup points, one at Caulfield Station at 9am (624 Kew stop on Sir John Monash Dr – north side of station) and the other at Lilydale station at 10am (rail replacement bay on the south-west side of the station).
A Belgrave train leaves Flinders Street at 8.46am and arrives at Ringwood at 9.38am for a connecting shuttle to Lilydale at 9.40am with arrival at Lilydale at 9.57am. We will await this train at Lilydale.

From Lilydale we will travel to Martyrs in Warburton with an arrival at about 11am for photos and some rides.
At about 12:30pm we head over to Healesville arriving at McKenzie’s at about 1pm where attendees will have a BBQ lunch followed by opportunities for photography and some rides.
We anticipate a return to Blackburn at about 4.30pm.
Other pickup points may be added closer to the tour depending upon demand and availability or changes to the rail replacement program.
Sincere thanks to the Dineen Group for offering to host us once again.
COST
Tour costs will be $10 for members and $20 for non-members, with under 18s half price. This includes your BBQ lunch.
FOUR & A BIT MEMBERSHIPS

New members can join this month until 30 June for $20 ($15 students/pensioners) and travel on the discounted members’ fare – a saving of $10!
PDF form – https://bcsv.org.au/wp-content/uploads/BCSV-Membership-form-special-offer-2023-24-1.pdf
Word form – https://bcsv.org.au/wp-content/uploads/BCSV-Membership-form-special-offer-2023-24.docx
RSVP
To aid catering, those wishing to attend are requested to notify the BCSV Secretary, Paul Kennelly, at secretary@bcsv.org.au

RSVPs to the Facebook event page do not confirm attendance but can be made to receive tour update notifications.
SAFETY
A reminder that hi-vis vests/shirts are required to be worn when visiting depots on BCSV tours.
A page outfling BCSV tour etiquette can be found here – https://bcsv.org.au/events-overview/tour-etiquette

BCSV March Overnight Tour: Stawell & Hamilton
2024-03-23 08:00 - 2024-03-24 18:00 | Various Pickup Points, Refer to event description
The Bus & Coach Society of Victoria is currently seeking expressions of interest for an overnight tour on 23rd/24th March 2024 to Stawell and Hamilton in Western Victoria.
We will visit Sandlant’s museum in Landsborough and their depot in Stawell on Saturday 23rd March.
On Sunday 24th March, we will visit the Ansett Museum and Campe’s Motor Museum, both based in Hamilton.
Our overnight accommodation will be in Hamilton at the Comfort Inn Botanical Motel
Motel website – https://www.choicehotels.com/en-au/victoria/hamilton/comfort-inn-hotels/au389
The tour will start with a pickup at Southern Cross Station on Saturday 23rd March at 8am and return about 6pm on Sunday 24th March. Additional suburban pick-ups will be announced closer to the date.
COST & MEALS
Coach travel, entry to museums and lunch on both days are included in the cost (see below).
Breakfast at the motel will be at your own expense (there are other breakfast outlets near the motel if you wish). Dinner in Hamilton on the Saturday night will also be at your own expense.
The tour costs for BCSV members are as follows:

With single room accommodation $180pp
With shared accommodation (double or queen bed) $115pp
With shared accommodation (separate beds) $125pp

Non-members will be welcome, subject to spare seats, for an extra $20.

Your expression of interest will not be a commitment at this stage but will help with motel bookings
In January 2024, you will be asked to confirm your booking with a $30 deposit.
EXPRESSION OF INTEREST
To express your interest & reserve your spot, send us an email to secretary@bscv.org.au
Please include an early indication of your accommodation preferences and your roommate where appropriate.
Facebook RSVPs are not considered an expression of interest but are welcome for further updates

BCSV May Meeting: McKenzies Memories
2024-05-19 15:00 - 17:00 | Melbourne Tram Museum (Hawthorn Tram Depot), 8 Wallen Rd, Hawthorn, Victoria, 3122, Australia
General Manager of McKenzies, Brad Sanders, will be our guest speaker at the BCSV’s May social meeting, looking back on the history of this operation that has now been operating for over 95 years.
Brad is a fourth generation descendant of the original McKenzies founder, Lorry McKenzie, and has been with the company for three decades.
Join us at 3pm on Sunday 19th May at Melbourne Tram Museum.
Free admission. Both members and guests are welcome to attend. Each meeting concludes with a short afternoon tea and chatter on the latest industry gossip.
LOCATION
Our bi-monthly Sunday meetings are held at Hawthorn Tram Depot / Melbourne Tram Museum, 8 Wallen Rd, near the corner of Power St.
Alight Tram Routes 70 & 75 at Riversdale Junction. Alternatively, Hawthorn Station on the Belgrave/Lilydale line is a short 10 min walk away.
