Travelling by bus invokes a feeling of independence, inclusion and freedom. Bus travel was developed in the 20th century and was the natural outgrowth of the horse-driven coach.
The word bus is short for omnibus. This originated from the Latin word omnis which means ‘for all’. Today buses are defined as vehicles that accommodate more than 10 passengers, for all people to travel from A to B.
Josh Ambrus recently boarded a Metro bus in Launceston with our Orientation and Mobility instructor to get familiar with catching a bus. This is helping Josh to get around the community. Legally blind, Josh either walks or relies on public transport.
“It was nice to know what to expect”, explains Josh.
The level of competence with orientation and mobility can have a significant impact on independence. Our Orientation and Mobility (O&M) specialists can help you discover how to safely navigate your way around your environment. Our O&M’s assist with the skills needed to catch buses and trains.
What you learn:
- Where seating arrangements are on the bus.
- How to find buses, the number of steps required to board the bus.
- How to show the driver your pass card.
- Where the electronic payment is located.
I found it really helpful. I’m a very independent person, so I don’t like to have to rely on people to drive me anywhere and I can get out and about on my own.
Josh Ambrus, VisAbility client
In Tasmania, blind and vision impaired travellers can apply for a Vision Impaired Travel Pass (link opens in new window). The pass is valid for five years and offers concessions for travel on public transport across the state.
Changes to Metro services
Follow this link to the Metro Tas website (opens in new window) discover bus stop changes in Hobart.