Kinetic boosts presence in Tasmania with O’Driscoll Coaches acquisition

Credit: Kinetic

Kinetic has announced that it has secured an agreement to acquire Tasmanian bus operator, O’Driscoll Coaches Derwent Valley Link, which operates 10 government contracted services, including the school bus and general access services between Hobart and the Derwent Valley.

A family owned company, established by Peter and Erica O’Driscoll in 2006, O’Driscoll Coaches operates 33 buses across three depots and employs 42 Tasmanians, all of whom will be offered continued employment with Kinetic.

The acquisition further expands Kinetic’s presence in the South East of Tasmania and as a key transport delivery partner for the Tasmanian government, with its network in Tasmania now including 252 buses and 272 people.

Kinetic is investing in a more modern bus fleet and improved driver facilities, with a capital investment programme of approximately $10 million planned for Tasmania in the next 18 months. The works include an overhaul of the company’s Hobart depot, upgrade of the transit centre in Hobart, re-location of the transit centre in Launceston and introduction of new vehicle livery and uniforms reflecting Kinetic’s brand.

Kinetic expands Tasmanian operation with East Tamar acquisition

Furthermore, through a ‘Women up Front – Trainee Bus Driver’ programme, Kinetic is encouraging more women to explore a career in the transport industry by offering candidates with a car driver’s license and community values the opportunity to join the company and receive the qualification, skills and confidence to drive a bus.

Kinetic Co-CEO Michael Sewards said: “Peter and Erica have built a business focused on service excellence and the local community, and we look forward to continue their legacy as we welcome the team into the Kinetic family. Buses will play an essential role in Tasmania’s public transport network and tourism industry now and into the future, and as key economic precincts continue to grow, the demand for reliable, safe, clean and green bus services will only increase.”

Peter O’Driscoll said: “Over the years in the bus industry we’ve built many wonderful relationships with our employees and life-long friendships. Kinetic is well known for its commitment to the local communities in which it operates. We are confident Kinetic will build on our achievements and deliver positive outcomes for our employees, our customers and the local community.”

The transaction is expected to complete in February 2023.