Christmas has come early for passengers of ComfortDelGro Corporation’s (CDC) NSW network in western Sydney, with Santa Claus driving a regular route bus travelling around Northmead, Parramatta and the city.
Local bus driver Ian Rowsell has been sent from the North Pole to add some extra Christmas joy, driving the bus dressed as Santa for the past six years each December.
At the ripe age of 63, he loves seeing the passengers’ faces light up when they board his bus.
“I just love Christmas, it’s my favourite season of the year,” Rowsell says.
“Passengers are often surprised with kids saying ‘wow, Santa is driving the bus!’ The kids love it and often ask for a photo or tell me what they would like for Christmas.”
Rowsell has also decorated his bus with tinsel and Christmas decorations, including a Christmas tree.
As a born-and-bred Sydneysider, Rowsell is excited to make more people happy this December.
“I like to make people happy. Christmas doesn’t happen every day, so it’s a great time of the year to spread joy and happiness,” he says.