Keep the bus rolling! Corey, Maureen Peach, Sam, Liz, Josh, Majella, Emily, Zarna, Jess, Bailey, Shane Peach, Bailey and Samantha. 20696
By Glen Atwell
SHANE and Maureen Peach have walked more than 100 children to and from Cranbourne West Primary School in the past five years.
Shane is the driver, conductor and coordinator of the Walking School Bus, and knows the daily route like the back of his hand.
But the program faces an uncertain future, and without the helping hand of new volunteers, the Walking School Bus could soon become just another schoolyard memory.
The bus has a strict eight children to one adult ratio and Shane said it was a simple case of ‘not enough hands on deck’.
“There are not enough volunteers and the program is in danger of collapsing,” he said.
“Our volunteers have work commitments and students grow up and move on to high school.”
For Shane, a casual job will soon turn full time, meaning his days as driver of the walking bus are numbered.
“My daughter Elizabeth was walking on the bus in prep, she’s now in grade five.
“It’s such a great program and Maureen and I are willing to train and support new volunteers to ensure it survives,” he said.
In the program’s five year history, more than 100 students have made the one kilometre commute to and from the Duff Street school countless times.
The driver of the bus walks up front and the conductor follows behind, ensuring the children do not stray from the route.
Shane said he had gained more from walking with the school bus than he ever imagined.
“It’s amazing how much you get to know about your neighbourhood.
“I know so many people along each street and know all my neighbours’ names. It’s also a great way to keep fit,” he said.
Cranbourne West Primary School parent and community liaison Debbie Nobbs said the program was a great way for children to learn road safety.
“It gives children a sense of direction and security in their local area.
“We need a few people who can spare an hour in the morning or the afternoon once or twice a week.
“That’s all it will take to keep this important program running,” Ms Nobbs said.
To keep the bus rolling, and strolling, contact Ms Nobbs on 5996 2878 or 0409 419 306.
