An update to this topic, but the musical chairs has begun in regards to the changes in bus operators in preparation for the new contracts starting next year, and note that this takeover will not be in effect until 1 July 2025. Australasian Bus & Coach is reporting that CDC Melbourne has retained their routes, but will take over the routes that are currently operated by Kastoria and Broadmeadows as part of the new franchise system that will begin next year. I think we will be getting more of these announcements over the next couple of months.

And as for the E class looking shabby – apparently the automatic tram washes are to blame for the stickers coming off the doors.

In the case of the E class tram doors, the ramp is there because the floor level doesn’t quite match the standard platform height.

https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/access-problems-at-super-stops-prompt-trial-of-wheelchair-ramps-on-new-trams-20160503-gol7rg.html

This was after Yarra Trams went around the network c2014 raising the height of many existing platform stops.

https://wongm.com/2021/03/melbourne-tram-stop-platform-inconsistant-heights/

Yes, the clock is still covered in advertising, and I’m not sure if the short animation of historical images is even in the loop of adverts anymore.

I suspect it’s a case of the small bus operators knowing they have no hope of getting one of the upcoming bus franchises, so were happy to take any money they could get for the current operations.

And they’ll still be there until the G class trams arrive!

https://www.vic.gov.au/next-generation-trams

Hard edging tram tracks with a vehicle damaging raised concrete barriers is a no brainer. An anecdote for you; In the late 70s a large German born woman had a brief stint as a South Melbourne Depot tram driver. In one day Ingrid hit three cars in separate incidents in Collins Street because they were obstructing her tram. While exchanging details with them, she soundly abused them for their stupidity.

I haven’t looked for a while. Is the lovely So Cross clock still spoilt by crass advertising?

While I am used to it now, I stumbled as I entered an E Class for the first time however many years ago. I was not prepared for the slight floor ramp, nor was I when I left the tram. Maybe something that might interest you to research, why are the E Class doors all peeling their vinyl and look so shabby?

Some people believe that this has something to do with the routes being up for renewal next year (note that some are up in 2028, while those operated by MorelandBus and Moonee Valley were up next year). Do you think this has anything to do with it?