It will never be value for money until such time as they put back what they removed in the first place – the double track.

I thought we were supposedly running a train service but one wonders if we are –   the amount of times buses have been brought in to replace train services has been astounding. From cancellations due to sickness, track maintenance and up grades, to cancellation due to heat restrictions (something that was unheard of  20-30 years ago). Oddly enough the trains are not running much quicker than what they did then.

Recently we had to catch a train to Gisborne, the train left at 5.26pm on time got to North Harcourt where it began to slow to a crawl, ultimately a brief stop waiting for a Bendigo bound train. Why? Because we had run out of the double line! The train continued on to Castlemaine where we were again held up for some considerable time awaiting a late service from Melbourne to Bendigo.

Once again the single track was the cause of this. Sadly after all this time the powers-to-be don't appear to realise that  two into one won't work. The same situation happened on the return trip. The train began to slow just past Taradale coming to a stop at Elphingston, this time waiting for a train from Bendigo to clear the single section of track.

When is the Transport Minister and powers to be going to admit that what was done was wrong and has become a complete disaster? There is no shame in admitting you are wrong in, fact you would gain more support for being honest.

So until such time that they can provide a disruption free service, everyone has a seat, quicken the service and arrive on time, there shouldn't be any fair increases. It is stated that prices have been kept in line with CPI. That's fine, but what about wage increases they don't rise with CPI? People still have to pay all the increases in everyday commodities in some way to be able to survive in life.

Having been boarded medically unfit by the police department just on 20 years ago suffering from depression and a serious back injury, I am surprised that with all the hype in the media by those in charge of the police department recently it appears that over that time nothing has been done to assist our mental problems for current or past members. 

Speaking with a former work colleague – who is also suffering with PTSD and who was informed by his superiors that due to his condition that there no longer a job here for him  – it would appear that there is no support for members who have given their all and due to the stress of the job are just put on the scrap heap after many years of loyal service. I know I served 25 years.

Read more: Vic top officer to walk for mental health

Until there is a true support scheme put in place to help (and having travelled down a certain path) I know that there will continue to be members attempting or committing suicide when they feel let down and used when some form of support can help. Once you are an "ex" you are just a nobody in the eyes of the bosses. I loved my job.

Have your say: Send letters to PO Box 61, Bendigo 3552 or at bendigoadvertiser.com.au

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