It has now been six months since Deniliquin RSL Club closed the town taxi service.
Deniliquin has been poorer because of this. A town the size of Deniliquin needs and deserves a taxi service.
A number of residents have said how much they miss the taxi service.
Those with Cabcharge and Taxi Transport Subsidy Scheme (TTSS) cards, are especially affected. TTSS wheelchair residents are particularly disadvantaged.
There is a terrific opportunity available for someone who wants to start and operate their own business.
I believe that, with sound management, Deniliquin Taxis was, and can be a viable business.
I thought that Steve's Courtsey Cars might take the opportunity to upgrade his hire car authority to full taxi authority, but he hasn't.
A taxi authority has several advantages over a hire car authority.
By not upgrading his authority, Steve has created the opportunity for some enterprising person, someone who likes helping people and enjoys driving, to start up the taxi service again.
Under the new regulations, the upfront cost isn't great. But they would find wide support from the community and a chance to build a viable business.
If I was 20 years younger, I would do it myself, but retirement age is not the time to start a new business venture.
I would assist anyone wishing to take up the opportunity, though, with as much help and advice as I can give.
Contact me any time to find out more if you're interested. Deniliquin will thank you.
Yours etc.
Allan Jones
Former taxi driver
Deniliquin
14°C