Four very special passengers recently checked in at Torrens Transit's Morphettville Depot, and while they may have been small, their visit had a big impact.

In partnership with See Differently, Torrens Transit welcomed four Guide and Assistance Dog puppies in training for a morning of hands-on learning to help prepare them to support people who are blind or have low vision.

The visit gave the puppies a chance to experience public transport in a safe, supportive environment, helping build the confidence and skills they will need as working assistance animals.

FIRST STOP: BUS 5011

The day began with a walk across the depot to bus 5011, where the puppies were introduced to many of the sights, sounds, and experiences they'll likely encounter throughout their working lives.

Under the guidance of the See Differently team, the puppies practised:

• Walking safely around a bus

• Boarding and exiting using accessibility ramps

• Settling calmly onboard

• Navigating unfamiliar environments

While these experiences may seem routine to most passengers, they are vital training moments for future assistance dogs that will one day help their handlers navigate the community confidently and independently.

LEARNING IN A BUSY ENVIRONMENT

The puppies then visited the drivers' sign-on area, where every shift at Morphettville begins.

With information screens, notices, conversations and team members moving throughout the space, it provided the perfect opportunity to practise remaining calm and focused in a busy public setting.

As a special reward, Torrens Transit team members had the chance to meet the trainees and learn more about the important role guide and assistance dogs play in supporting independence and accessibility.

CREATING ACCESSIBLE JOURNEYS FOR EVERYONE

For many people who are blind or have low vision, public transport is much more than a way to get from A to B.

It is a vital connection to employment, healthcare, education, family and community life.

A guide dog that is comfortable travelling on public transport can make a significant difference, helping its handler move through the world safely and confidently.

Supporting initiatives such as this reflects Torrens Transit and Transit Systems' commitment to creating inclusive and accessible transport services for all customers.

The visit follows Torrens Transit receiving the 2026 Access Advocate Commendation from Guide Dogs SA/NT and complements accessibility initiatives already delivered across the business, including Hidden Disabilities Training for all team members.

HOW CAN THE PUBLIC HELP?

The best way you can help our incredible Guide Dogs and the people they assist is by making others aware that Guide Dogs can go anywhere.

As part of Guide Dog etiquette, it’s also important to remember these handy tips:

• The Guide Dog isn’t the centre of attention. Please speak directly to the person and not to their Guide Dog.

• Never feed, pat or distract a Guide Dog when they are in coat or harness.

• Don’t grab the person or Guide Dog to help them, always ask if they need assistance first.

• If you are providing guiding assistance, please walk on the person’s side which is opposite to the Guide Dog.

• Ensure high traffic areas like pathways and entrances are free of obstacles and spills so that Guide Dog teams can navigate safely.

Source: 🔗 LINK

ONE BUS TRIP AT A TIME

Torrens Transit thanks the See Differently team, along with Morphettville team members Inderpreet and Badar, for helping make the visit a success.

See Differently puppies are cared for by dedicated puppy raisers. Find out more today: https://seedifferently.org.au/work-with-us/volunteer

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