At a recent meeting of the Mosgiel Rotary Club, members were pleased to welcome guest speaker Karyn Goodsir, founder of Let the Good Times Roll, a service that is quietly making a meaningful difference in the Mosgiel community.
Karyn began the service in 2023 as a companion driver, but she explained that the idea quickly grew into something much more. At its heart, Let the Good Times Roll is about providing confidence, compassion, and freedom to people whose mobility has become limited. Many of her clients are people who no longer hold a driver’s licence or who find it difficult to get around due to health or mobility challenges.
Her clients come from a wide range of circumstances. Some are living with terminal illness, others experience dementia or memory loss, and many simply struggle with reduced mobility. For them, Karyn’s service is far more than a ride from A to B. She offers companionship, conversation, and reassurance, helping people maintain a sense of independence and connection with their community.
To make everyday travel easier, Karyn also offers an affordable local “taxi” service within Mosgiel on Tuesday mornings and Thursday afternoons. This allows clients to attend essential appointments such as visits to the doctor or dentist, or simply to get out for groceries and errands that might otherwise be difficult to manage.
Karyn explained that many of her passengers are able to access support through the Otago Regional Council Mobility Card, which can provide up to 75 percent off the cost of a ride for people who cannot use public transport or walk easily. The final cost of trips depends on the time required and the distance travelled.
She also spoke about the importance of community sponsorship, sharing an example from Mosgiel where support has helped someone who would otherwise remain isolated to get out and about again.
Karyn’s presentation was a reminder that sometimes the simplest services can have the greatest impact. By combining transport with kindness and companionship, Let the Good Times Roll is helping people in Mosgiel stay connected, independent, and part of their community.
