Juma's sure feline like a bus trip
USUALLY, you have to be a guide, hearing and assistance animal to be allowed on public transport.
But for eight-year-old Sumatran tiger Juma, TransLink is willing to make an exception.
The 130kg big cat was jumping at the chance to join TransLink CEO Neil Scales and Australia Zoo owner Terri Irwin to launch TransLink's new 9+ free Go Card incentive yesterday.
The introduction of the new incentive means that after completing nine trips during a Monday to Sunday week, customers can use their card to travel free for the remainder of the week.
Mrs Irwin said the incentive was great for tourism and would encourage people to explore the region.
The scheme was also welcomed by members of Rail Back On Track - a community support group for rail and public transport passengers - although spokesman Robert Dow described it as a "small step".
"It is not dramatically different but if it helps some people then it's a good thing," he said.
"The cost of public transport travel in south-east Queensland is expensive and we believe there needs to be a wide review of the fare structure to provide better options for regular, long-term commuters.
"They should be looking at things like off-peak discounts and monthly, six-monthly and annual tickets.
"But at least some relief is better than no relief."
