MEDIA RELEASE
Date: 3 July 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PHOTO: Care in Motion has taken over responsibility for community transport services in the Mid North, pictured from left Solutions & Volunteer Coordinator Sarah Harris, Operations & Risk Manager Erica Singh and CEO David McDonald.
Community transport services transition to new provider
Four regional councils will step back from their role as the operators of the Mid North Community Passenger Network (MNCPN) as part of a planned transition to a new service provider, following a State Contract tender process for the Yorke & Mid Northern region.
Clare & Gilbert Valleys Council, Regional Council of Goyder, Wakefield Regional Council and Adelaide Plains Council have all provided annual financial support to sustain the network’s operations.
The MNCPN has been hosted at the Clare & Gilbert Valleys Council offices since its establishment more than 20 years ago and the Council is pleased to announce that Care in Motion, a respected not-for-profit organisation based in Minlaton, will now assume responsibility for community transport services in the Yorke & Mid Northern region.
This transition will occur in two phases. Care in Motion commenced the Commonwealth-funded service for residents over 65 on 1 July 2025, which will be followed by the State-funded service for those under 65 from 1 September 2025.
Care in Motion, known for its commitment to community transport and support services across regional South Australia, brings extensive experience to this role.
The organisation has been serving the Yorke Peninsula and recently expanded into the Mid North region, managing the Northern Passenger Transport Network.
"Care in Motion is honoured to take on the responsibility of continuing this essential service, ensuring its ongoing availability to those who rely on it," Care in Motion CEO David McDonald said.
Clare & Gilbert Valleys Council has proudly supported and operated the MNCPN for many years, ensuring residents across the region have had access to affordable, reliable community transport, and stresses that the service will continue uninterrupted under the new provider.
To ensure continuity and familiarity for clients, the transition plan includes the continued use of the current fleet of vehicles, which will be hired from the Council.
Many of the dedicated volunteers who have been integral to the service will also remain involved.
During the interim period, Council will maintain services for approximately 100 under 65 year old clients under the State contract until Care in Motion fully assumes operations in September.
Council staff member Lol Hill will oversee these services to ensure a seamless transition.
Mayor Allan Aughey OAM said the transition represents a positive step forward for the region.
“We’re incredibly proud of the role we’ve played in supporting this vital service,” Mayor Aughey said.
“The decision to transition the service to a new provider has been made with the long-term interests of our community in mind.
“The incoming provider will bring renewed energy and expertise to service the larger Yorke & Mid Northern region following the State’s restructure of its community transport program, and we’re confident the community will benefit from ongoing enhancements to the service.”
In the meantime, Council wishes to thank the dedicated staff, volunteers, and community members who have supported the service over the years.
“Your commitment has made a real difference in the lives of many,” Mayor Aughey said.
Council is committed to working closely with Care in Motion to facilitate a smooth handover and to uphold the high standards of service that the community expects.
ENDS
Contact: David Stobbe, Chief Executive Officer
Clare and Gilbert Valleys Council
4 Gleeson St, Clare, 5453
Email: admin@cgvc.sa.gov.au
Phone: 08 88426400