Emma Pritchard, Clarence Valley Independent
Fuelled by his inspiration to provide the local community with affordable and reliable public transport, Mark Ruthven decided to put his business plan into first gear, and two years later, his investment is continuing along the road to success.
Established in 2019, Rabbit Ride-Share offers professional and quality service at fixed rates, making the locally owned and operated business a convenient and economical travel alternative for customers on a budget, and residents who frequently rely on public transport.
With a fleet of seven immaculate vehicles including Mazdas, Mercedes, Hyundais and Kias, Rabbit Ride-Share employ 16 local drivers who are familiar with popular travel routes and locations across the Clarence Valley, and dedicated to providing quality customer service to all passengers.
And the recent feedback is definitely steering the business towards a bright future.
Founder and Managing Director Mr Ruthven said Rabbit Ride-Share is frequently inundated with calls, and the local community is extremely appreciative of the high standard of service provided to them.
“All our feedback has been positive,” he said.
“We offer a reliable and affordable service, and our fixed-rates allow more people to travel in the area.
“Some customers never got a taxi because they couldn’t afford the prices, and I wanted to provide a local service which people who are on a budget can continuously rely on.
“Rabbit Ride-Share works along a similar line to Uber, but unlike Uber where customers use an app, they contact our call centre in town, talk to an operator, tell them where they are and where they need to go, they’re quoted an exact fare and one of our vehicles is immediately dispatched.”
Fixed fares at Rabbit Ride-Share start as low as $10, and fares between Grafton and South Grafton are affordably set at $16.
“People deserve to have transport they can afford, and that was my main incentive in starting the business,” Mr Ruthven said.
“Our fares are fixed, meaning people can budget and have more money for other things such as groceries and bills.”
With more than 30 years experience in the transport industry, Mr Ruthven understands the importance of affordable travel options, especially in regional communities.
Rabbit Ride-Share are also introducing an extension to their current services this weekend.
From October 22, vehicles will commence operating Friday and Saturday nights, departing Grafton at 5pm and arriving in Yamba with plenty of time for passengers to enjoy themselves at coastal venues before returning at 1am.
The additional services will offer locals the opportunity to travel within the Clarence Valley for a night out at an affordable price of $20 per seat, each way.
Bookings are essential and subject to a limitation of four passengers per vehicle.
Rabbit Ride-Share operate from 6am until late, seven days.
For the full list of fees, please visit www.rabbitrideshare.com.au
To book a vehicle, call 0455 700 300.
Rabbit Ride-Share is encouraging more drivers to apply due to increased customer demand. Applicants must be in possession of a full drivers license and a printed copy of their driving record, ABN, undergo a police check meeting Ministry of Transport requirements.
This article appeared in the Clarence Valley Independent, 20 October 2021.
