For years a daily rail service has seemed an impossible dream for the region, but now both local members of parliament have thrown their weight behind the battle.

The region’s elderly, in particular, have long fought for better access to Sydney so Bathurst residents can more easily attend medical appointments, entertainment events and visit family and friends.

Federal Member for Macquarie Bob Debus yesterday said he and State Member for Bathurst Gerard Martin had written a joint letter to State Transport Minister John Watkins and Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Anthony Albanese “concerning the provision of an improved Bathurst to Sydney passenger rail service”.

In his reply, Mr Albanese told Mr Debus that the Federal Government had committed $5 million to review the “long term transport needs for the Central West”.

“The study will encompass both road and rail transportation and I will ensure that the rail service between Bathurst and Sydney is given specific consideration,” Mr Albanese wrote.

Mr Albanese said he would keep in contact with Mr Debus as details of the study were finalised.

Mr Debus said it was clear the Federal Government’s promised study would include passenger rail between Bathurst and Sydney.

“This is, I believe, of great practical significance because it will make a comprehensive assessment of all the issues affecting possible future passenger services,” Mr Debus said.

Mr Debus said the study, first announced as an election promise during Kevin Rudd’s visit to Bathurst last July, would begin in coming months.

Bathurst Rail Action Group chairman John Hollis said he was pleased Mr Debus had shown his support.

“It’s very good actually. I feel it’s a very positive step from Bob Debus. I spoke to him a couple of weeks ago and he seemed very sympathetic to the situation. He recognises the need to improve rail services to Sydney,” Mr Hollis said.

Mr Hollis said it was good Mr Albanese would make sure the rail service between Bathurst and Sydney would be given specific consideration.

“There is a lot of hope on that but I don’t feel we should necessarily rest there. We should keep the action going,” he said.

The Rail Action Group is made up of representatives from community groups, the Bathurst Business Chamber, various health services, the university, schools, industry, businesses, individuals, the CWA, CPSA and council.

They presented a detailed submission to NSW Transport Minister John Watkins and delivered a 7000-signature petition to Mr Martin last month.