E-scooter trial extended in Forster-Tuncurry after successful 12-month period

An e-scooter trial in Forster-Tuncurry has been extended until June 2025 by the MidCoast Council. The decision to prolong the trial was made after a successful 12-month period, during which over 60,000 trips were taken on hireable e-scooters, covering a distance exceeding 126,000 kilometers from December 2024 to October 2025.

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Each day witnesses more than 100 rides, with the numbers significantly escalating during holiday seasons. The availability of hireable e-scooters has provided an alternative mode of transportation, reducing the reliance on cars, particularly appealing to tourists and visitors in the area.

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Local businesses in Tuncurry and Forster have embraced the initiative, facilitating easier travel for customers within the region. However, a notable concern among residents revolves around the issue of discarded e-scooters, which not only diminish the visual appeal but also pose potential trip hazards when left on footpaths.

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Director of Infrastructure and Engineering Services, Rob Scott, emphasized the importance of promptly reporting any incorrectly parked e-scooters to Beam, the service provider. By scanning the QR code on the e-scooter or visiting the Beam website, individuals can notify the company to rectify the situation.

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It is crucial to note that personal e-scooters are prohibited on NSW roads and related areas, including footpaths, shared paths, and bicycle lanes. These devices are only permitted for use on private property, with strict regulations governing their usage in public spaces.

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For further details on e-scooter regulations in New South Wales, individuals are encouraged to visit the official Transport for NSW website, which outlines the guidelines and restrictions surrounding e-micromobility in the state.

The initiative has not only provided a sustainable and convenient mode of transportation but has also fostered collaboration between local businesses and the community, promoting eco-friendly travel options and reducing carbon footprints.

As the e-scooter trial continues to evolve, it underscores the growing trend towards embracing innovative solutions for urban mobility challenges. The success of such initiatives highlights the importance of exploring alternative modes of transportation to create more sustainable and vibrant communities.