Great Southern Rail today welcomed the announcement by Prime Minister Howard that concessional travel arrangements with discounts of up to 55% has been extended to The Ghan service between Alice Springs and Darwin.
This arrangement now extends the concession fare privileges, previously offered on other routes, to now include all Great Southern Rail services: The Ghan, The Indian Pacific and The Overland.
Tony Braxton-Smith, Chief Executive Officer of Great Southern Rail, said: “This is an excellent initiative by Prime Minister Howard, who should be congratulated. It will give a much needed tourism boost to the Northern Territory and South Australia, resulting in approximately 10,000 more domestic holidaymakers each year”.
“We are delighted that the Commonwealth Government has recognized the importance of supporting seniors by offering this funding in line with the rest of the states”, he added.
The Government funding, combined with the company’s own discount, provides pensioners with a saving of up to 55% off the adult fare in Red Kangaroo Daynighter Seats and up to 32% off the adult Gold Kangaroo Service fare. Special Veterans will now receive a reduction of up to 90%.
“Great Southern Rail is delighted to be extending pensioner and veteran fares on The Ghan between Alice Springs and Darwin. This initiative will enable the thousands of people who have always dreamt of travelling on The Ghan to the Northern Territory, to make a very affordable and comfortable journey”, he added.
Report by The Mole
