Queensland’s best bus driver recognised

The people have voted and the results are in, with Ella Reid from Clarks Logan City Bus Service taking out TransLink’s People’s Choice Award for the best bus driver in the state.

The trophy and accompanying $1,000 prize money were presented at the Queensland Bus Industry Council’s (QBIC) gala dinner over the weekend (6 May).

Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey congratulated Ella on her outstanding efforts and receiving the support of the community.

“Ella has gone above and beyond to provide exceptional service to passengers in Logan – this award is well deserved,” Mr Bailey said.

“Winning this accolade shows that Ella really is the ‘people’s choice’, receiving the most votes of the five shortlisted finalists.

“High public interest and participation in the award highlights that the community cares about their bus drivers.

“It’s not often enough that we get the chance to recognise the bus drivers and staff that keep our public transport moving.

“I would also like to commend our five finalists and 257 nominees. The fact there were so many worthy candidates in contention speaks to the high quality of our bus drivers.”

Member for Waterford and Minister for Employment, Small Business, Training and Skills Development Shannon Fentiman thanked Ella for the important contribution she makes to Logan communities.

“Our bus drivers play a vital service in Logan, getting our kids safely to school, linking residents with vital services and connecting our communities,” Ms Fentiman said. 

“I would like to congratulate Ella on receiving this award, and thank all Logan bus drivers for the work they do.”

Public nominations for TransLink’s People’s Choice Award opened in December 2017 and closed at the end of January 2018, with 257 drivers nominated.

Five finalists were shortlisted by an industry-led panel, with a focus on areas including positive customer impact, excellence in customer care and having a customer-focused attitude.

Public voting on the finalists was open from 3 - 30 April, supported by an extensive social media promotional campaign which included video profiles of the drivers.

More than 4,300 people voted on the finalists, with Ella Reid receiving more than 1,000 votes.

Ella has worked at Clarks Logan City Bus Service for three years.

ENDS

Media contact: Carmel Robertson, 0439 347 875