Transport was one of seven discussion areas for the event in Horsham Town Hall.

Stawell’s Graeme Sandlant, who operates Sandlants Coach Tours, said passenger rail was a key issue for the transport discussion group.

“The main thing we came up with was around trains – we need them back operating to at least Horsham,” he said.

“We want the coaches then to be able to connect in to service our communities.

“The other thing is we need to have a vision for the future for the National Disability Insurance Scheme, and transport services around that.

“I think at the end of the night we’re going to have a positive outcome.”

Mr Sandlant said the region’s public transport services needed a lot of improvement.

“I came along to see where we’re at,” he said.

“The best part is you learn more by listening than talking.

“You hear what ideas others have, and put that with the information you have, and you get a better outcome.”

Rainbow’s Alison Ey said poor road conditions was also a key concern for transport representatives at the assembly.

“Connectivity is also an issue, because the further out you go from Horsham, the more minimal the services are,” she said.

“The other thing that has come up – which is really important – is that older people in our region might not have the confidence to drive the distance required to access appointments, or be prepared to drive on our roads given their condition.

“There are people who are not getting to chemotherapy appointments because it’s too difficult to get there and back in a day.”

Special Minister for State Gavin Jennings, who closed the assembly, said the night was about building the region’s capacity and resilience in the face of some of its major challenges.

“What we’ve looked at is how to build a model that builds a greater sense of connectivity and integration,” he said.

“We don’t want people to be isolated in this community – we want this community to flourish.

“Quite often the Wimmera is seen as an older community, but tonight we’ve been inspired by young people too.

“All of us have a responsibility to rise up and meet expectations to give our young people hope and optimism for the future.

“That’s our challenge, and all of us here tonight have joined to achieve that outcome, and I congratulate you all.”