CaPTA expands with acquisition of long-running local bus company


The run of acquisitions in the tourism industry continues with CaPTA Group buying Coral Reef Coaches in a deal that will bolster CaPTA's transport arm Tropic Wings by 19 vehicles.

CaPTA managing director Peter Woodward also foreshadowed further investment in the company's transport division, saying more vehicles will be added to the fleet over time. Its Tropic Wings division now operates around 40 vehicles.

Coral Reef Coaches has been servicing the Tropical North for more than 40 years with charters, shuttles and school runs. 

The purchase follows a string of acquisitions in recent years, including buy-outs of local companies like Raging Thunder, Great Barrier Reef Helicopters, Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort and Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises.

Mr Woodward said the acquisition would result in minimal disruption to bus services, with schedules remaining the same and any pre-purchased tickets being honored. School bus tickets will be available for purchase at the Wildlife Habitat Sanctuary.

“We’re thrilled by this acquisition, as it will tie in with some exciting developments set to occur at Wildlife Habitat,” Mr Woodward said. “Furthermore, it will round out the ‘Port Douglas Trips’ side of ‘Cairns and Port Trips & Attractions’.’’

Pia Mckeown, owner-manager of Coral Reef Coaches, said the family will concentrate on other business interests after finding the "right buyers" for the coach company.

“We have found another family business that can continue to invest and provide a high level of services throughout the region,” she said.

CaPTA Group is locally owned and operated by the Woodward family, with operations including Rainforestation Nature Park, Tropic Wings Coach Tours, Jungle Tours & Trekking, The Wildlife Habitat, Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome, Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, ABC Sales & Maintenance and Careers Training Centre.