Resources & News

Stay informed with the latest updates, service announcements and operational news from Ventura. This page provides access to recent updates, service information and industry insights.

What’s New

See below for the latest news and updates from Ventura.

Route 886 Now Running: Connecting the Mornington Peninsula Like Never Before

The Mornington Peninsula is now better connected with the launch of the new Route 886, a milestone service that for the first time provides a direct public transport connection between Hastings, Tyabb and Mornington. Operating from 5 July 2026, Route 886 delivers 233 weekly trips, running approximately every 60 minutes, seven days a week, making it easier for residents to access jobs, education, healthcare, shopping and other essential services across the peninsula.

Ventura is proud to be operating this new route, which also improves access for local communities through new coverage along the western end of High Street in Hastings, extending to Hendersons Road for the first time. The service offers convenient connections with Frankston-bound buses at Mornington, helping passengers reach even more destinations with a simple transfer. With services running from approximately 6am to 11pm on weekdays and 6am to 10pm on weekends, Route 886 is already helping connect communities across the Mornington Peninsula. For more information and to view the timetable, visit Route 886 timetable and service information.

Ventura Launches Hailo App to Make Catching the Bus Easier and More Accessible in Melbourne

Ventura has partnered with innovative technology platform Hailo to introduce a new way for passengers to connect with their bus. The Hailo app allows passengers to digitally “hail” their bus in real time, letting drivers know where they are waiting and if they require assistance.

Designed with accessibility at its core, the technology supports passengers of all abilities and creates a more inclusive, reliable and connected public transport experience for the community.

Find out more: venturabus.com.au/hailo/

Ventura Announces Acquisition of Crown Coaches

Ventura has announced that it will acquire Melbourne-based Crown Coaches, a highly regarded operator specialising in school and corporate charter services. The transaction is pending ACCC and FIRB approval.

The acquisition will expand Ventura’s operational footprint in Victoria, adding approximately 150 buses, including 10 electric buses, to its fleet. All Crown Coaches employees will be offered employment, ensuring continuity and stability for staff and customers.

The Crown Coaches brand will continue operating under Ventura’s umbrella, maintaining existing service relationships while strengthening Melbourne’s transport capacity and supporting the transition to zero-emission buses.

New Transport Victoria Branding

You’ll start seeing Ventura buses featuring the new Transport Victoria logo as PTV transitions into a single transport brand. Operator logos are being replaced with a unified block-letter design to create a simpler and more consistent look across the network.

The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal

With all 12 Ventura depots taking part, our team proudly supported The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal, helping bring support and hope to local families across our communities.

Driving Community Spirit: Ventura Joins Forces with Doveton Football & Netball Club

Ventura announced a partnership with the Doveton Football & Netball Club, supporting grassroots sport and strengthening community connection.
This partnership reinforces Ventura’s commitment to local engagement and community pride.

Ventura Supports the SmackTalk Prevention Movement & Unplug24 Challenge

Ventura is proud to support the SmackTalk Prevention Movement and the Unplug24 Challenge, initiatives focused on raising awareness and preventing sexual extortion and suicide.

The Unplug24 Challenge highlights the importance of digital responsibility and community support.

Featured Projects & Initiatives

A snapshot of recent contracts, partnerships, community engagement and transport initiatives delivered across our network.

Crown Australian Open Golf

Ventura Charter supported the 2025 Crown Australian Open, providing private player transport and spectator shuttle services from Cheltenham Station to the main gate.

With more than 100,000 attendees across the tournament, our team delivered safe, reliable and seamless event transport throughout the weekend.

VineHop Festival

Ventura Charter deployed over 40 buses to coordinate shuttle services for more than 5,000 festival-goers across the Peninsula. Our on-ground crew and fleet management ensured smooth operations and consistent service across multiple pick-up points.

ANZAC Day Community Transport

Ventura provided charter transport across Melbourne to support ANZAC Day commemorations. Services included school groups, RSL members and cadets travelling to marches and memorial events, ensuring safe and respectful community participation.

Ventura Delivers NOVA’s Jase & Lauren Live Broadcast on a Bus

Ventura partnered with NOVA 100 to deliver a live breakfast broadcast on board a Ventura bus, recreating Jase & Lauren’s iconic high school route. With a bus full of listeners and surprise guest appearances, the event showcased Ventura’s ability to support custom media and experiential transport activations.

Generations in Jazz Festival

Ventura Charter transported 450 students from five schools to and from the Generations in Jazz Festival in Mount Gambier. From interstate coordination to multi-day scheduling, our team managed the logistics to ensure a safe and seamless travel experience.

Change Makers

Ventura participated in the Change Makers event at Karralyka in Ringwood, showcasing how accessible and inclusive transport can transform lives. Our team brought a low-floor accessible bus to demonstrate features such as kneeling functions, priority seating and enhanced audio-visual announcements that support passengers with disabilities.

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