Founded by James (Jim) and Isabel Newton way back in 1952, Newton’s Bus Service, as we were originally known, started with just one school bus. By 1970, we’d expanded to provide a more extensive passenger service to the communities of Echuca and Moama.
By 1973, the demand for a charter vehicle in the area was apparent; Jim and Isabel purchased their first charter vehicle. The fleet now operates with several multi-purpose charter vehicles in various sizes.
In 1977, after the sudden death of Jim’s wife Isabel, their youngest daughter, Roslyn and her husband Fred, returned to help Jim manage the business. Fred and Roslyn purchased the business in 1979 and renamed it James Newton’s Bus Services. Jim retired in 1979 due to ill health.
After Jim’s passing in 1982, Fred and Roslyn continued to expand the business. Due to the lack of public transport in Rochester, Fred and Roslyn in conjunction with V-Line commenced the Rochester town service that operated on Tuesday and Thursday in between school runs. In later years, this service was reduced to operate only on Thursday. This service still continues today.
As the fleet expanded, the operational and maintenance demands also increased. In 1992, Fred and Roslyn’s son, David, commenced his Heavy Vehicle Apprenticeship. Upon the completion of his apprenticeship, David was awarded the Komatsu Award presented by Alan Moffat. This was for outstanding workmanship. David became the head mechanic, whilst further developing his knowledge of the business and the industry.
Over the years James Newton’s Bus Services/Echuca Moama Transit has provided numerous services to Rochester and the surrounding area. These include Country School Bus Services, Town Route Services, Temporary V-Line service from Lockington to Rochester, Day Trips, School Camps and Excursions, Replacement V-Line Coaches, and Self-Drive Services.
Supporting our local communities is important. During the Rochester Flood Crisis of 2011, we assisted with the safe evacuation of the Rochester community and Rochester and District Health Service. In addition, we allocate funds to support local schools and community organisations through donations of services, or monetary donations when requests are made.
Today, Newton’s Bus Services is led by owner & Managing Director David Ind. Our staff are committed to helping serve our community by providing a safe, reliable and modern transport service. Family owned and operated, our business has continued to grow, with personalised services to all our clients being our top priority.