Community
18 July, 2024
End of an era for Cole’s Coaches
COLE’S Coaches has announced the closure of its Mortlake Branch after more than five decades of operation.
After almost 52 years Cole’s Coaches ceased operations in Mortlake at the end of June.
The company was originally founded by Jeff and Dorothy Cole in Mortlake in 1972, and began with just four busses.
Today the business has expanded to more than 50 busses, and remains run by second generation family members Jamie and Paul.
Cole’s Coaches recently held a get together at the Mortlake depot of current and retired staff, which was also an occasion to acknowledge the service of long-time employee Murrie Wilson as he set off in to retirement.
In his appreciation speech, Jamie Cole expressed how it had been a difficult decision to sell the Mortlake branch as the town had been where Cole’s Coaches was originally founded almost 52 years ago.
He said there are a lot of memories, stories and great people associated with the Mortlake branch which will not be forgotten.
“Cole’s Coaches will continue to support local organisations even though not operating from Mortlake,” Mr Cole said.
“The Warrnambool, Colac and Geelong operations will be unchanged.
“The services previously provided by Cole’s Coaches in Mortlake will continue unchanged with the new operators.
“School bus runs, the Mortlake to Warrnambool return service on a Wednesday and the Friday evening service will continue without change.”