Right here at the Meadowbank Bus/Ferry Interchange Stone lies a tale of transit evolution. This stone marks a place of constant motion. Buses, trains, and ferries converge here seamlessly. But there is more than meets the eye.
The Meadowbank Bus/Ferry Interchange Stone stands as a silent witness. It has observed countless journeys. It symbolizes the area’s rich history. It reflects the community’s ever-changing needs.
Let’s talk buses. Once upon a time, the Meadowbank Bus Company ruled these roads. Founded by Harry Bedford. This company was a local gem. Rick fondly remembers riding those buses as a child. Those buses had ex-army GMC and Chev chassis. Imagine a bus built on a six-wheel-drive GMC chassis. A rare sight in Sydney.
Later, Armytage and Waller took over. They painted the buses deep cream with blue bands. Then Hayman and Wenban stepped in. Eventually, Cumberland Coaches absorbed the company. Finally, North & Western B. L. took over. A small bus company changed hands many times.
Eric Wenban’s era was particularly delightful. With only six or seven Bedfords. Eric provided an excellent service on route 152. This route ran from Meadowbank Station to Gladesville. It included diversions via Putney Point and Tennyson Point. Later, it extended to Top Ryde Shops. Eddie Hayman created the timetable. He maximized frequencies and reliability from a small fleet.
Eric surprised everyone with a second-hand Albion Viking Vk43 coach. He used it for premium charter services. Even more surprising, he bought two Adelaide Worldmasters. These buses were easier to drive on the hilly route. Eric converted these three-door buses. He made them front-and-rear-door configuration.
Eric was known as an excellent employer. Drivers rarely left. It was a small corner shop operation. Perfect for the feeder service it provided. Eric always had time for enthusiasts. He would chat for hours. He even attends HCVA meetings. Route 152 is now covered by route 507. It offers a direct service to the Sydney CBD. It also connects to Macquarie Centre and University. Route 537 serves East Ryde, Top Ryde, Tennyson Point, and Putney Point.
Now, consider the ferries. The F3 ferry line arrives here. It is the first ferry at 07:38. The last ferry departs at 22:33. Buses also play a crucial role. The N80 is the first bus. It arrives at 03:04. The last bus, also the N80, leaves at 03:34.
The nearest bus stop to Meadowbank Ferry Wharf is Meadowbank Wharf on Bowden Street. It’s just a four-minute walk. The closest ferry station is Meadowbank Wharf. Only a five-minute walk away. Rhodes Station is the nearest train station. But it is a twenty-minute walk. The T9 train line also stops near here. The first train arrives at 04:34. The last train departs at 00:45.
As you stand here at the Meadowbank Bus/Ferry Interchange Stone. Remember the journeys. Remember the buses. Remember the ferries. Remember the trains. Think about those who made this place a vital hub. This stone is more than just a marker. It’s a testament to the area’s dynamic history.