Council seeks volunteer drivers for Peggy, the community wellbeing bus

Published on 08 December 2025

Mount Alexander Shire Council is inviting community members to volunteer as drivers for the Community Wellbeing Bus, affectionately known as Peggy.

Peggy is a wheelchair-accessible bus that helps residents travel to Gurri Wanyarra Wellbeing Centre in Kangaroo Flat, where they can enjoy group fitness classes, a health club and swimming pools.

This service ensures that people without transport can regularly access health and leisure activities that support their physical and mental wellbeing.

Volunteer drivers play a vital role by picking up and dropping off residents directly from their homes, creating a friendly and welcoming experience along the way.

Current volunteer driver Michael Johnston said the role is rewarding.

“It’s lovely to greet new friends by name as they hop onto Peggy. Hearing how these trips help people feel healthier, happier and more socially connected makes it a really positive experience for me.”

At present, Peggy travels to Gurri Wanyarra on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, but Council hopes to expand the service with more volunteer drivers.

“More volunteers mean more opportunities for residents to enjoy these activities. Beyond that, the bus ride is good fun. A trip on Peggy is a social outing as much as a journey,” said Rosalie Rogers, Council’s Manager Community Wellbeing.

Gurri Wanyarra is fully accessible, with designated parking, wheelchair access, accessible changerooms, lift access to the health club and a gradual ramp entry to the large warm water pool.

For more information on volunteering as a Peggy bus driver, or to book a trip, please call 5471 1797. 

Full details of programs and facilities at Gurri Wanyarra at www.gurriwanyarrawc.com.au.