wayfarer wrote:Yes, I'd very much like to go too. I won't mind joining the association if that is a prerequisite. Just let us know how that is being handled. Regards, Tom.
Nobody's discussed fares or costs for participants. With the weather forecast tipping 40 degrees, I don't know how prudent it would be to try and run an extensive programme of tours after the media event in old non air-conditioned buses. Both from the well being of the buses and passengers/drivers. The buses are always there for re-enactments in milder times. Nevertheless, the media may want to go for a ride in an old bus, - I suspect the Yellow City Clipper will be the drawcard there. Maybe we play it by ear on the day.
BPSWA buses are not licenced to carry fare paying passengers or be operated for hire and reward outside the confines of Whiteman Park, so a "fare" as such will not be charged. Donations are, of course most welcome, - the costs of restoring, fuel, licence, insurance, repairs of old buses are immense not to mention the other costs of running a society like BPS. Furthermore, donations of $2 or more are income tax deductible. So let Tony Abbott help subsidise your love of buses!
Its probably more important to encourage bus enthusiasts to join BPSWA, as the more members the Society has, the better its credibility is when seeking sponsorship from Government and corporate organisations. They always want to know how many members and what is the spread of ages. If you join now which is the second half of the BPSWA year, your membership will be carried through to 30th June 2015. $40 for adults and $30 for those on a pension or students/children.
Furthermore, by being members you can influence the organisation into providing the services or attractions that YOU want. The Australian Railway Historical Society's (Rail Heritage WA) motto is "For All Who Are Interested in Railways" and I'd like to think that BPSWA is "For All Who Are Interested in Buses". Having said that, those on the BPSWA Council of management have undertaken a huge work load with the many aspects relating to the Society. All are volunteers and many of us have other interests and passions, plus family/work/other commitments. So some fresh blood is needed and BPSWA needs people to organise events, re-enactments or simply meetings where people can get together to talk buses, play with buses or watch pictures/videos/movies of buses. And new members may well include people that are willing to organise outings or activities where we can all enjoy the preserved buses. Much better than having them sit in a dark shed and regular use does more good than harm.
