The Toyota Hi-ace minibus was bought for $56,000 in 2017 to make it easier for staff and councillors to commute between Cootamundra and Gundagai following the amalgamation.

It turned out there wasn't much demand for this kid of travel, as it was proving more efficient for staff to arrange their own movements.

In May this year Council was going to sell the bus for an estimated auction price of $40,000, but decided to make it available to the community for a six-month trial.

The trial started in July, with 31 community group members doing an induction program to be recognised as council volunteers able to drive the bus, and expressions of interest from several other organisations since then.

A report on bus usage was submitted to council's November meeting, showing 16 trips completed over three and a half months at a cost of 80 cents per kilometre.

Commenting on the report, Councillor Penny Nicholson said interest in using the bus was clearly high, but it had taken some time for the community to become aware of its availability..

General Manager Phil McMurray said it had come to light only a few weeks ago that extra insurance was required for volunteers to drive, and this had now been managed by council paying an extra $800 on top of existing cover.

He said that had not interrupted any bookings as council staff were provided to drive for some groups of people.

A further trial of three months was proposed, but Cr Nicholson suggested it be extended to six months.

As the bus has had some council use in addition to community use, Cr Kelly suggested more accurate data be obtained with log books being filled in by all users.

The trial will start January 6 and be five months to allow a report to the May meeting.