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PASSENGER THANK YOU HIGHLIGHTS BUS DRIVER VALUE

TWO TRANSDEV bus drivers collectively celebrating 105 years working in the Victorian public transport industry have helped underline the often unappreciated impact the transport-career path has with its many grateful customers.

The drivers – John Dussi (50 years of service) and David Reeve (55 years of service) – based at Transdev’s Sunshine West depot, both began their careers on Victoria’s tram network before becoming bus drivers, Transdev confirms.

Last year they clocked up their respective milestones; however, Covid-19 restrictions delayed plans to celebrate the significant career achievements.

According to the company, Dussi says that no matter where he goes in Melbourne he is recognised by former passengers.

Transdev Melbourne managing director Ian Craig said: “Both John and David bring an incredible wealth of experience to our team and a strong commitment to serving the Victorian community.”

“For more than half a century both men have helped thousands of Victorians get to where they need to go.

“We are proud to have drivers whose knowledge and experience is highly valued by everyone at Transdev.”

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PASSING TRIBUTE

Over the years both drivers have witnessed significant changes and growth to the city and advancements in the technology and comfort and safety of buses, but the customers and their experiences remain some of the most memorable moments on the job, they say.

Dussi says he has had many memorable customers over the years and says some passengers can become like family.

“I used to drive four older ladies from Abbotsford to St Francis church in the city to clean the pews and arrange the flowers. I formed a good friendship with one of the women, Teresa,” he explained.

“She was friendly with all the bus drivers and was one of the nicest people you could ever meet.”

“When she passed away she arranged for a box of chocolates to be delivered to the depot to say thank you to the drivers with a copy of the order of service from her funeral so we’d know who it was from,” he fondly recalled.

Transdev marked the milestones of Dussi and Reeve with a celebration at its Sunshine West depot and special messages on destination banners on buses driven by the drivers.

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ABOUT TRANSDEV

Transdev believes public transport plays an important part in how a city comes to life, it says. Its day-to-day work influences families, friends and future generations where they live, work and play, it explains.

In Australasia, Transdev has 6,170 people passionate about operating its 2,010 vehicles and vessels, which deliver more than 160 million customer journeys each year, it states.

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Photography: courtesy Transdev Melbourne

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