NORTHERN Hawks Rugby League Club has partnered with bus operator CDC NSW to launch a new campaign aimed at reducing antisocial behaviour and promoting respect across the region.
The initiative features local Hawks players appearing on CDC NSW buses, delivering a clear message to passengers: ride with respect, treat fellow passengers and drivers with courtesy, and help keep buses safe and welcoming for everyone.
The campaign forms part of CDC NSW’s broader strategy to stamp out antisocial behaviour and strengthen respect in the community across its network.
The Northern Hawks campaign builds on this momentum, extending the focus to community-led engagement and reinforcing shared values of courtesy, safety, and mutual respect.
General Manager of Outer Metro Region CDC NSW, Jodie Mallia, told News Of The Area, “We’re incredibly proud to partner with the Northern Hawks on this campaign.
“Antisocial behaviour on our buses affects everyone – our drivers, our passengers, and the broader community.
“By bringing local football players on board, we’re sending a powerful message about respect in the community – particularly to younger passengers – that good behaviour matters.
“When you step onto a CDC NSW bus, you’re part of a community, and we all have a role to play in making that experience a positive one.
“Our drivers work hard every day to provide a reliable and friendly service, and they deserve to be treated with respect.”
As familiar faces in the Hunter Valley community, the Northern Hawks players are lending their profile and influence to champion respect in the community and encourage positive behaviour on public transport.
Club president Andrew Chapman said the Hawks are all about teamwork, respect, and giving back to the community.
“Respect in the community is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re thrilled to join forces with CDC NSW on a campaign that aligns perfectly with the values we instill in our players both on and off the field,” Andrew said.
“Our players are role models in this community, and if seeing them on a bus encourages even one person to think twice about their behaviour, then this campaign is a success.
“We’re proud to be part of the effort to keep public transport safe and respectful for everyone” he added.
Antisocial behaviour has been a growing concern across the public transport network in recent years.
The Respect in the Community campaign complements a range of safety measures CDC NSW has introduced across its fleet, including CCTV systems, duress alarms, and driver protection screens.
CDC NSW is committed to working with Transport for NSW, local sporting clubs, schools, and community organisations to promote respect in the community,encourage positive behaviour, and strengthen community connections across its network.
By Chris KARAS
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