Queensland’s Taxi Council has reminded people attending tomorrow night’s State of Origin game at Suncorp Stadium that taxis are an economical, direct and safe alternative to public transport.

4BC Interview with Wayne Crookes (Chief Operating Officer, TCQ)
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Chief executive officer Benjamin Wash said many people forget that when four or more people catch a cab together, the cost can be comparatively low.

“Not only are taxis economical, but they are a safer, door-to-door transport option,” he said.

Mr Wash particularly urged younger people to jump in a cab rather than walk home from Suncorp or from bus stops and train stations.

“I suggest that parents will have a much greater peace of mind knowing their daughter or son will be dropped right at their door.”

Taxi tips for State of Origin:

• A secure rank will operate at Suncorp Stadium after the game, on Castlemaine St.

• The next most accessible taxi rank is outside Hotel LA on Petrie Tce

• After Caxton St reopens, the rank outside the Caxton Hotel will also be open.

• Drivers can refuse people who they believe are too intoxicated, present a threat or do not have the capacity to pay

• Drivers have the option of asking for a fare up-front. The meter will still be turned on and the account will be reconciled at the destination.

• Both Yellow and Black & White cabs can receive bookings via their respective phone apps.

• Please be patient with drivers during heavy post-game traffic. Taxis are ordinary vehicles and do not have the ability to magically pass through other vehicles or to fly.

The following statement is attributed to Benjamin Wash, CEO, Taxi Council Queensland:

Taxi Council Queensland applauds the announcement by the State Government that it has reversed its decision – announced in last year’s budget – to cap the usage of this valuable scheme. Queensland has one of the largest fleets of disabled-accessible taxis in the world and we value our customers with disabilities. This is a victory for the vulnerable and great news for people across the state who rely on taxi travel as their only form of transport.

Attracting more drivers from a broader cross-section of the community – including semi-retired people and women – is part of a bold campaign by Taxi Council Queensland to create the world’s best taxi service, according to chief executive officer Benjamin Wash.
Mr Wash marked one year in the job by announcing the plan, which will also focus on improving customer service and luring more customers.

He is already convinced the state’s taxi service is the best in Australia.

“Over the past year I’ve learned how important taxis are to so many Queenslanders, providing safe, door-to-door service to over a quarter of a million people every day.

“My goal is for Queensland to be the best in the world, and I believe that’s achievable as we work closely with government, tourism groups and drivers,” he explained.

He said that contrary to perception, driving a taxi is safe. “It is a good career and has offered generations of people a great lifestyle. Many other occupations have a far greater risk-factor and we are continually making it safer”.

The plan also involves training drivers to be tourism ambassadors.

“The first person that greets many visitors to our state is the taxi driver, and we want to partner with drivers to provide tourists with a more comprehensive service,” he said.

These initiatives are aimed at achieving Mr Wash’s ultimate goal – to increase taxi usage.

“I want to reintroduce the public to the benefits of taxis,” he declared.

“Not only is a taxi the safest and most convenient transport, but it doesn’t have to be expensive.

“During sporting and community events, it works out almost as cheap as other forms of public transport if a few friends share a cab, not to mention the convenience.”

“More people in cabs means less traffic congestion. It’s better for the environment, for tourism, for business and for the economy.”