After 33 years in business, the family-owned and operated business Kaniva Bus Service owned by Steve and Annie Austin, has been sold to Wimmera Roadways.

Kaniva Bus Service was originally begun by Norm Austin, Jack and Sandy Goldsworthy in 1953 whilst they were running Kaniva Motors.

Over that time, Kaniva Bus service has employed over 80 drivers, which isn’t actually that many when you consider 70 years of operating, which is a credit to the loyalty and stability of the drivers over the years.

Back in the day, Kaniva Bus service had 10 buses transporting students to and from school. Most of those buses were Bedfords, carrying up to 48 passengers, sometimes three children to a seat and sometimes standing room only.

Photos: Contributed

Back then, there was also a town bus running. Annie said, “I remember as a student on the Lawloit bus, the Bedford was full, and a feeder bus was used. There are now no students on this route – such a sign of the times.”

Steve Austin has been driving buses for over 40 years since 1977 as a reliever whilst working for Kaniva Motors. Steve has driven so many students to school over those years, including several three generations of families.

The Austins said, “It was a very emotional decision to sell this long-standing family business; however, the time had come.”

Kaniva Bus Service has an impeccable safety record that has been held over all these years, which again is a credit to all the drivers. The current drivers will continue to drive the same buses.

Enjoy your retirement and enjoy a swim or a dabble of fishing. 

This article appeared in the Nhill Free Press & Kaniva Times, 5 July 2023.