By Michael Burt
Interim school transport arrangements are being rolled out in the Dorrigo, Thora and Bellingen areas, with minibuses deployed to maintain access to schools while Waterfall Way remains closed.
A small fleet of minibuses has been enlisted to transport school students from Dorrigo and Thora as Transport for NSW confirmed that there is no timeline for reopening Waterfall Way.
Five regular school bus routes were suspended due to safety concerns on the Summervilles Road, which is currently unsuitable for full-size school buses without additional controls.
To restore limited access, Transport for NSW worked with local operators to source minibuses capable of navigating the diversion. The services will operate under strict safety conditions, including the use of a pilot vehicle escorting minibus convoys along the route.
The interim arrangements have been developed in consultation with schools, local bus operators and Bellingen Shire Council.
Transport for NSW says it will continue working with the community as conditions evolve and services are adjusted in response to road access and weather impacts.
“The interim solution is constrained by vehicle availability, meaning not all affected students will be able to return to school immediately,” a spokesperson said.
“Families are advised to follow their schools’ guidance and plan accordingly as services are progressively expanded.”
Under the initial phase, a revised timetable will allow students travelling from the Dorrigo and Thora areas to reach Bellingen via the minibus services. Bellingen-based students in years 7 to 10 attending Chrysalis Steiner School in Thora will also be able to access transport, along with Orama School students travelling between Bellingen and Thora.
Transport for NSW says efforts are continuing to secure additional minibuses and drivers, notably to support the remaining Chrysalis Steiner students who are still unable to return to school. Around 130 students remain are affected, and while no return date has been confirmed, authorities say resolving the situation remains a priority.
The temporary minibus services are expected to remain in place for the duration of the Waterfall Way closure.