Bellingen home to Australia’s first not-for-profit taxi service Coffs Coast Nambucca Valley by News Of The Area - Modern Media - March 1, 2024 Greg Walcot, Chair of the Board at The Community Transport Company, which recently acquired Bellingen Shire Taxis. NORTH Coast social enterprise The Community Transport Company has acquired Bellingen Shire Taxis, creating Australia’s first not-for-profit taxi service. The former proprietors of the business, Greg and Susan McLeod, are transitioning the new owners into the business as they thank the community for its support and patronage since founding the local taxi service eight years ago. Advertise with News of The Area today. It’s worth it for your business. Message us. Phone us – (02) 4981 8882. Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au Chair of the Board at The Community Transport Company, Greg Walcot, told News Of The Area, “We are a registered charity and social enterprise, working to have the greatest positive impact we can on the world we live in. “Our primary goal has always been to ensure that transport barriers do not hinder individuals’ access to essential services and opportunities. “The integration of Bellingen Shire Taxis into our operations aligns perfectly with this vision.” The Community Transport Company has been providing transport assistance for 35-plus years, particularly in regions with limited public transit options. The organisation now boasts a team of 250 volunteers and staff, and 80 vehicles. By incorporating Bellingen Shire Taxis into its network, the company can now extend its reach even further, catering to a broader spectrum of transportation needs. The acquisition is expected to bring about several tangible benefits for residents of Bellingen and surrounding areas. “With an expanded fleet of vehicles and a larger team of experienced drivers, The Community Transport Company will be better equipped to meet the growing demand for services. “As a social enterprise, any surplus made from the taxi service will be directed back into the community transport programs under the business charity to provide access and inclusion to people who are transport disadvantaged,” said Walcot. Under the leadership of Greg and Susan McLeod, Bellingen Shire Taxis earned a reputation for reliability, efficiency, and exceptional customer service. “The McLeods’ dedication to serving the community has been unwavering throughout their tenure. “Their decision to transition ownership to The Community Transport Company reflects their commitment to ensuring the continued provision of high-quality transport services to the residents of Bellingen and Urunga. “We are deeply grateful to Greg and Susan McLeod for their years of dedicated service and for entrusting us with the legacy they have built,” added Walcot. “The close-knit team of drivers epitomise professionalism, courtesy, and reliability, ensuring every passenger journey is safe, comfortable, and efficient. “We’re delighted that with the exception of Greg and Susan who are moving on, all of the driving team will be staying with Bellingen Shire Taxis to continue to support the community with great transport,” Walcot said. By Andrea FERRARI