The University of Newcastle has launched a time-saving carpooling system to help students and staff think about greener ways to get to campus.

The carpooling service is a first for the University. By filling in their details online, students and staff will be matched with other travellers interested in saving time, money and reducing their carbon footprint, by sharing a ride to campus.

“The carpooling service makes great sense for students and staff wanting new ways to get onto campus and complements our online travel program On the Move, which is a one-stop shop for travel information,” Facilities Management Director, Trevor Gerdsen, said.

On the Move has been updated with the latest information on buses and trains, cycle and walking paths, facilities for bike riders, parking cars on campus and the shuttle service.

“Work will soon begin on expanding the number of car parking spaces at the campus with more than 640 additional spaces to be built for use by students and staff. Almost 480 of the new spaces will be in free car parks around campus,” Mr Gerdsen said.

A map of the car parks can be found and downloaded online, and a free shuttle service is available to transport students and staff from the new car parks to their destination on campus.

Last year more than 34,000 students and staff used the shuttle service to get around the campus quickly and safely.

“The shuttle will run weekdays during semester from 6.30pm, to take students and staff home, who live in suburbs surrounding the University.”

For more information on the range of transport options to the University’s Callaghan campus visit www.newcastle.edu.au/onthemove

For interviews: Trevor Gersden 0418 612 432.

Media contact: Leonie Brann Media and Public Relations Officer, on 02 4921 6856 or 0448 898 813.