The celebration coincided with Work180’s announcement of their Top 101 Employers of Women [paywall], recognising Transdev as one of the organisations leading the way in creating inclusive workplaces.

Brian Brennan, CEO, addressed attendees on the progress of the GEAP.

“Equity is not simply a target on paper,” Mr Brennan said. “It’s about creating an environment where every Journey Maker has the opportunity, support and recognition they deserve. The focus this year is on tangible actions that make a real difference across the business.”

“Equity is not simply a target on paper. It’s about creating an environment where every Journey Maker has the opportunity, support and recognition they deserve. The focus this year is on tangible actions that make a real difference across the business.”

Brian Brennan, CEO Transdev Australia & New Zealand

Mr Brennan highlighted achievements including:

  • Gender pay gap improvements, with WGEA reporting a gap of -1.4%.
  • Strengthened support networks, growing the ‘Women on the Move’ network which supports advocacy and connection between female Journey Makers.
    Initiatives supporting more targeted recruitment, including an all-female Open Day at Transdev’s Sydney Ferries operations.
  • The continued success of the Elevate Female Leadership Program, producing 23 graduates thus far.
  • Expanded leadership pathways, developing a new Emerging Leaders Program which further develops existing talent pathways for women within the business.

The event also provided an opportunity for Journey Makers to reflect on the UN theme, “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls,”, and consider how everyone can contribute to a fairer, more inclusive workplace.

“Progress requires commitment from everyone,” Mr Brennan added. “From leadership to teams across the business, each Journey Maker has a role in building a workplace that embodies these principles. Together, equality becomes more than an aspiration – it becomes part of the Transdev culture.”

The day included words from Dr Marjorie O’Neill MP, Member for Coogee and Parliamentary Secretary for Transport; and a cast of Journey Makers from transport operations throughout the region, all of whom reaffirmed the importance of continued efforts toward inclusivity.

For more information, see how Transdev has marked International Women’s Day in previous years, review our Publications page or learn more at the Work180 website.

In 2025, the Elevate Female Leadership Program welcomed a talented cohort of female leaders from across Transdev Australia and New Zealand. Designed to build leadership capability and expand influence, the program has supported participants to take confident steps forward in their careers.

We caught up with three graduates from last year’s Program, whose growth, achievements and ongoing contributions demonstrate what’s possible when women are given the tools and support to lead.

Shayna Fraticelli, who commenced the program as Head of Remuneration & Benefits, reflects on the experience:

“The program gave me the confidence to back myself and my capabilities. It allowed me to become truly comfortable with my unique leadership style and reinforced that I was appointed to my role for my thinking.”

Since completing the program, she’s taken on a broader remit as Head of HR Governance & Systems requiring her to work more frequently with businesses across Transdev’s international footprint. Shayna added that being recognised Transdev Australia & New Zealand annual employee recognition awards as Journey Maker of the Year was a milestone of which she was particularly proud.

Monika Rudolf, Head of Performance & Reporting, describes the biggest shift being in how she sees herself, now recognising the strategic value and influence she brings.

“The program reshaped how I approach leadership. I now see my role extending well beyond metrics and dashboards – focusing on driving strategy, aligning teams and empowering them to reach their full potential,” she said.

Rebuilding her career in Australia from the ground up after emigrating from Hungary remains a deeply personal achievement that continues to shape her compassionate leadership style.

Anita Panchal, Operations Centre Manager, credits the program with strengthening her strategic focus and leadership presence.

“It shifted my mindset from managing tasks to influencing outcomes, giving me the confidence to step forward in moments that require decisive leadership,” she said.

Since graduating, Anita has transitioned into her current operational leadership role, broadening her perspective across the wider service environment. Delivering her final presentation to senior leaders was a defining moment in the Program that transformed her confidence and reinforced her belief in her capability.

“Leadership programs don’t just grow individuals – they lift the entire culture of the organisation”

Monika Rudolf, Head of Performance & Reporting

Asked what advice they would give other professionals considering embarking on a development program like Elevate, Shayna said: “There’s no ‘one size fits all’ approach, so shape it in a way that suits you – it’s your leadership journey!”

“Programs like this create space to step back from day-to-day delivery and invest in your leadership identity, how you influence, lead and the impact you want to create,” said Monika.

“Leadership programs don’t just grow individuals – they lift the entire culture of the organisation.”

Anita encouraged an open mind and readiness to be surprised by how the experience might change you.

“Be ready to challenge yourself, embrace new perspectives and reflect on your growth,” she said.

“The connections you’ll make, experience you’ll gain and personal transformation you’ll undergo make it an incredibly rewarding experience.

“Most importantly, enjoy the journey and have fun!”

“For this year’s Sydney Lunar New Year Festival, we’ve wrapped an entire tram in my artwork, ‘We Run Into the Fire Together’,” said Mr Wing.

“My artwork features lots of dynamic horses created out of fire embers, represented in colours that are prosperous for both Chinese and Aboriginal cultures,” he said.

The artwork reflects the energy and symbolism of the Year of the Fire Horse, a rare zodiac combination occurring once every 60 years which represents vitality, transformation and forward momentum.

Brian Brennan, Chief Executive Officer of Transdev Australia & New Zealand, joined partners from the City of Sydney, Transport for NSW, Sydney Light Rail’s media partner Torch Media and the artist himself as the wrapped tram debuted on the network earlier this month.

Mr Brennan said the artwork reflects the shared spirit of Lunar New Year and the important role public transport plays in connecting communities.

The horse is a timeless symbol of people moving people, a purpose that Transdev lives every day as we move more than 12 million passengers worldwide.

Brian Brennan

“Given the transformative impact that light rail has had on Sydney, it’s fitting that we build on our ongoing partnership with City of Sydney and Transport for NSW during an event that is so much part of the fabric of this city.

“We believe we’re as much a transport solution as we are an active contributor to city life, placemaking and cultural celebration.

“We’re very proud to support initiatives like this, which bring the vibrant art, culture and community of Sydney into everyday journeys.”

The wrapped tram will be cantering on the L2 Randwick and L3 Juniors Kingsford Lines throughout the Lunar New Year festival, running 14 February through 1 March.

Sydney Light Rail services will provide easy access to the many Sydney Lunar Festival events occurring across Haymarket, Chinatown, Darling Harbour and George Street. Passengers are encouraged to turn up and go, experiencing this moving artwork as part of their celebrations.

For more information about Sydney Lunar Festival events, visit the City of Sydney’s What’s On page.

The annual staff awards shine a light on exceptional individuals and teams driving the operator of public transport forward, with winners in nine categories hand-picked from over 500 nominations submitted by their peers throughout the year.

Held since 2012, the Awards bring together individuals for a night of celebration, good food and fun. Because Transdev’s operations in the regions span from Perth to Wellington, the evening marks the first time many attendees from the frontline meet each other.

Every nomination tells a story of commitment and passion.

Brian Brennan

“It’s inspiring to see so many Journey Makers going above and beyond to support our teams, our networks and our communities,” said Brian Brennan, Chief Executive Officer for Transdev Australia & New Zealand.

“Every nomination tells a story of commitment and passion. It’s great to have nights like this, which provide us a chance to celebrate their extraordinary contributions.”

“I want to congratulate not only all the winners and finalists but also everyone who took the time to nominate a colleague for an Award. You’re the beating heart of Transdev, and it’s camaraderie like this that allows us to provide over 270 million trips for customers each year.”

Read more about this year’s award winners, and see some more images from the evening, below.

Juhandi Susanto,
Transdev John Holland Bus

Juhandi has set an exceptional standard through his commitment to eco-driving and operational excellence. His smooth driving techniques reduce fuel use and emissions while enhancing the customer experience. Calm under pressure and consistently dependable, Juhandi exemplifies how small, thoughtful actions can deliver meaningful sustainability outcomes.

Finalists

  • Jessica Howley – Transdev Western Australia Bus

  • Isaac Bwel Say – Transdev John Holland Buses

Karthik Pasnoor,
Transdev WA Bus

Karthik demonstrated extraordinary courage and compassion when he provided life-saving First Aid to a pedestrian struck by a vehicle in front of his bus. He calmly stabilised the injured person, coordinated with emergency services and, without seeking any recognition, quietly completed his route. His actions reflect exceptional professionalism and humanity.

Finalists

  • Gary Lam – Transdev Sydney Light Rail

  • Jackson Harris – Transdev John Holland Buses

Bill Palmer,
Transdev Wellington

Bill transformed antisocial behaviour at Paraparaumu Station by creating a community group that provides local youth with mentorship, activities and a positive outlet. His dedication has improved safety, strengthened trust in public transport and changed lives — all driven by initiative, empathy and commitment.

Finalists

  • Merike Viigisalu – Transdev Sydney Ferries

  • Samantha Carlson – Yarra Trams

Job Wang,
Howick & Eastern Buses


Job is known for his exceptional reliability, calm leadership and ability to lift standards across multiple areas of the business. He works across safety, performance, charters and customer engagement without missing a beat, earning deep trust from colleagues who say everything runs better with Job involved.

Finalists

  • Katrina Wild – Transdev Australia & New Zealand

  • Lana Bright – Transdev Sydney Ferries

Suzanne Lewis,
Transdev Queensland

Suzanne has supported, coached and mentored countless new drivers, helping them build confidence and develop the skills needed for safe, high-quality service. Her peers describe her as “one of a kind” for her kindness, experience and steady support.

Finalists

  • Niju Johnny – Transdev Queensland

  • Tony King – Transdev Wellington

Clarissa Sparnenn,
Yarra Trams

Clarissa has demonstrated exceptional commitment to development and excellence. Known for her kindness, professionalism and drive, she pursued mentoring and formal safety training, culminating in a promotion to Safety Trainee. Her dedication to improving the network and supporting colleagues makes her an outstanding high achiever.

Finalists

  • Anthony Frey – Transdev Sydney Light Rail

  • Christopher Marriott – Transdev Western Australia Bus

Erica Stander,
Mana Newlands Coaches

Erica embodies the essence of brilliant basics through her commitment to safety, operational excellence and unwavering support for her team. Her leadership, work ethic and dedication to customers and colleagues set an exceptional standard across our operations.

Shayna Fraticelli,
Transdev Australia & New Zealand

Shayna has made a lasting impact on the organisation through her leadership in remuneration and benefits, expanding support for employees and improving transparency across the business. Her work consistently improves how we engage, retain and empower our people.

Transdev John Holland Buses


The 2025 Team of the Year transformed their client relationship, delivered top-tier on-time performance for six consecutive months and drove improvements across their network through partnership, accountability and grit. Their commitment to excellence and collaborative approach made them stand-out performers across the region.

See more images from our 2025 Journey Maker Awards

This year’s forum focused on collision prevention and the role leadership plays in influencing operational outcomes.

Through expert presentations and panel discussions, attendees explored the latest research, shared operational insights and discussed practical people-centric strategies to improve safety outcomes across light rail networks.

Amanda Tarbotton, General Manager Safety and Assurance for Transdev at Sydney and Parramatta Light Rail, spoke about risk acceptance and finding a path towards zero. 

“We need to move towards a vision zero mindset,” she said. “The challenge is to do something different, but the question for us today is what does different look like?

“There can be millimetres of difference between a near miss and actual collision.

“Behind every statistic is a person with family and friends. Safety isn’t a technical target; it’s a leadership decision.”

There can be millimetres of difference between a near miss and actual collision.

Amanda Tarbotton
Close-up of the panel session at the Transdev Sydney Light Rail Public Safety Forum in 2025, panel featuring five speakers, including tram and bus representatives in conversation about leadership and safety culture.
Wide shot of the conference room showing a panel of five speakers on stage discussing safety initiatives while attendees watch from tables in the foreground.

Robert Wentzel, Managing Director of The Jonah Group, shared insights on the role of leadership in shifting the “blame” mindset.

Ian Hopkins, Head of Network Development at Yarra Trams reflected on learnings from Melbourne’s network, 74% of which is shared with other road users.

The above keynote speakers then joined in a panel, alongside Sydney Light Rail driver Aman Bajwa and Bob Parton, Managing Director of Transdev WA, for a discussion about strategies to reduce collisions on our networks, facilitated by Arsene Durand Raucher, Managing Director of Transdev Sydney Light Rail and Parramatta Light Rail.

The annual event reflects Transdev’s ongoing commitment to making light rail safer for everyone, through collaboration, innovation and listening to the communities the business serves.

Transdev recognised this year’s National Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June) with a renewed focus on respect, cultural learning and visual storytelling, alongside a range of events across our business.

This year’s theme, “Bridging Now to Next”, invites all Australians to reflect on our shared history and look ahead together with courage and commitment.

CEO Brian Brennan said that for Transdev, reconciliation is an ongoing journey embedded in how we work and who we partner with.

“This year’s theme speaks directly to the kind of organisation we strive to be – one that listens, learns and leads with purpose,” Mr Brennan said.

“We are committed to walking this path with First Nations Peoples in meaningful and practical ways.”

As part of our ongoing Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), we’ve continued to grow opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through employment, partnerships and social procurement initiatives.

At our Pitt Street office in Sydney, Transdev hosted a company-wide event, featuring:

  • Reflections from our RAP Working Group Leaders;
  • The unveiling of a new artwork by proud Biripi woman Vicki Golding; and
  • Discussion of our progress under our current Innovate RAP.

To support all Journey Makers in engaging respectfully with culture, Transdev also launched a new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Protocols guide – a practical resource to support culturally appropriate engagement with First Nations communities.

Beyond the office, Journey Makers across the country took part in a wide range of cultural events, including:

  • Our CEO, Brian Brennan attended a yarning circle with Babana Men’s Group;
  • Our Chief Financial Officer, Alexia Gontier and Chief Legal & Commercial Officer, Nathan Lanthois attended a Bunjil Creation Dance Ceremony in Melbourne;
  • Our Chief People Officer, Dimity Smith will be attending a Boardroom Lunch with the Chairperson of the NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce; and
  • A number of Journey Makers joined a Warrang-Sydney Reconciliation Walk.

These moments of connection and learning reflect our people’s shared commitment to reconciliation in action.

“It’s not just what we say during National Reconciliation Week – it’s what we do afterwards that counts,” Mr Brennan said.

“We want all our teams to feel equipped and empowered to keep the momentum going well beyond this week.”

For more information about National Reconciliation Week, visit the Reconciliation Australia website.

Daniela Fontana has been appointed the Managing Director of Transdev John Holland Buses and started on Monday 19 May 2025. She brings over 30 years of leadership experience and an extensive knowledge of the bus and transport sectors.

With Ms Fontana’s long history in the bus industry, she understands network operations and the company’s commitment in delivering high standards of safety, service, innovation, and recruitment across Region 9: Sydney’s CBD and the Eastern Suburbs.

Transdev John Holland’s popular bus network mobilises a rising commuter, tourist, and student patronage since the pandemic, providing over 50 million journeys each year.

As the new Managing Director, Ms Fontana leads 1100 staff, and oversees 3 depots and their 470 buses and 48 public and 137 school routes – including the 24-hour 333 circuit between Bondi Beach and the CBD.

Daniela Fontana, who previously led Transit Systems NSW and State Transit Authority NSW, says she looks forward to stepping into the position to lead a dedicated team of Journey Makers and a strong internal culture.

I am very excited to drive our people and projects forward that will make great impact to customers in the region.

Daniela Fontana, Managing Director - Transdev John Holland Buses

“I have always believed buses are a key transport mode,” Ms Fontana says. “The Region 9 network is vital in connecting local communities with each other and to the city.

“Having led multiple bus networks and regions across Sydney, I am very excited to drive our people and projects forward that will make great impact to customers in the region.”

Transdev Australia and New Zealand CEO Brian Brennan welcomes the appointment and highlights Ms Fontana’s collaborative approach and operational expertise.

“Daniela brings a strong track record of operational leadership and I’m confident Region 9 will continue to go from strength to strength under her guidance,” Mr Brennan says.

“She joins a passionate local team of Journey Makers and with her history of delivering exceptional results, I’m excited to see what they’ll achieve together.”

 Key information

  • Daniela Fontana, new Managing Director, Transdev John Holland Buses, officially started on Monday 19 May 2025.
  • Transdev John Holland Buses operates 3 depots in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs. The company operates 470 buses, including 24 zero-emission buses, has 1100 staff, and provides over 50 million customer journeys each year. It runs the 333 route.

Transdev marked International Women’s Day 2025 by celebrating strides made since the release of their Gender Equality Action Plan in 2024, reaffirming their commitment to progressing gender equity within their transport businesses across Australia & New Zealand.

A year on from the launch of their Gender Equality Action Plan, Transdev has made considerable headway into the three-year roadmap and the targets they’ve set themselves.

“I’m extremely proud of the progress we’ve been able to make in the past 12 months,” said Alexia Gontier, Chief Financial Officer and Executive Sponsor for Gender Equality at the organisation.

“We’ve grown female participation across the business, expanded gender-based networks, policies and procedures which support women, and continued to partner with organisations that will help achieve our ends.”

Transdev’s 2024 gender equality achievements at-a-glance

  • Increased the number of women in key roles, with more women welcomed to our business year-on-year, including 40% of all driver hires in light rail operations.
  • Strengthened leadership pathways, with 11 female leaders graduating the inaugural Elevate Leadership Program in 2024 and 12 further women due to commence the program this week.
  • Grown support networks for women, such as their Women on the Move network.
  • Rolled out company-wide Respect@Work training, reiterating the importance of eliminating sex-based harassment and discrimination to their entire workforce.
  • Struck new partnerships, such as the Champions of Change Coalition Rail Group, to drive industry-wide improvements for women in transport.
  • Reduced the gender pay gap, with reports from the Workplace Gender Equality Agency indicating an average gender pay gap of -5.5% across Transdev’s Australian operations, indicating that, on average, women are paid more than men in Transdev’s Australian operations.
  • Improved policies, providing support for stillbirths, miscarriages, infant loss, domestic violence and implemented more gender-inclusive recruitment practices.

In-person celebrations also took place at the Port Botany depot of Transdev John Holland Bus, which opened its doors, among them The Honourable Dr Marjorie O’Neill, Member for Coogee and Parliamentary Secretary for Transport.

“I’m sure every woman in this room has had the experience of walking into a room – like a bathroom, for example – and immediately thinking: ‘this was designed by a man’”, she said.

Referencing the work Transdev John Holland have undertaken to update their facilities to make them more suitable for all gender identities, The Hon Dr O’Neill said: “It’s amazing how much a small change can make women feel more welcome and included in the workplace. When they are, we all benefit.”

[We ask] that every Journey Maker ...consider the role they can play in creating a more gender equitable workplace - and world.

Alexia Gontier, Chief Financial Officer & Executive Sponsor for Gender Equality

Whilst pleased with the progress made so far, Ms. Gontier expressed the importance of sustained momentum.

“We don’t intend to stop here,” she said.

“We’ll be continuing to work on the goals set in our Gender Equality Action Plan, and asking that every Journey Maker at Transdev consider the role they can play in creating a more gender equitable workplace – and world.

“I’m thankful to be led by our CEO, Brian Brennan, who prioritises these initiatives and supported by so many Journey Makers throughout our business who do the same.”

At Transdev Australia and New Zealand, we recognize the value of different languages in shaping our identities, strengthening communities, and fostering inclusivity in the workplace. To acknowledge this day, we’re proud to share the story of one of our incredible journey makers, Becca.

What does ‘International Mother Language Day’ mean to you?

Language is more than just words—it carries history, culture, and identity. Languages shape who you are and I’m very proud of being a multilingual person. International Mother Language Day is a great chance to celebrate the beauty of linguistic diversity and remember the importance of preserving our native languages.

Why is it important that we take this time to acknowledge people with a different mother language? How can we do this effectively as a company?

Because language is so important in our life and work. When we recognize linguistic diversity, we foster inclusivity, strengthen cross-cultural connections, and create a more respectful and understanding environment.

As a company, there’s lots we can do, such as offering translations, subtitles, or multilingual resources when possible. It’s also important that our policies support linguistic diversity – for example, actively stating our support for multilingual communication in casual settings.

What aspects of having a different mother language have you brought with you into the workplace? How has this helped you?

Being able to speak more than one language allows for better communication with diverse clients, colleagues, or international teams.

It helps in translating and interpreting when needed, making workplace interactions smoother.

Understanding cultural nuances in different languages can prevent miscommunication and foster stronger relationships.

When we recognize linguistic diversity, we foster inclusivity, strengthen cross-cultural connections, and create a more respectful and understanding environment.

Becca Zhang

What advice would you give someone who is bilingual and plans to transition into an environment where a new language is more prevalent? 

Confidence is key. Don’t be afraid to speak and make mistakes.

Simultaneously, don’t forget your bilingualism is an asset for global teams, international clients, and diverse workplaces.

Be open to learning and adapting. Observe how colleagues communicate in meetings, emails and discussions and learn.

How can companies like ours better the support for those with a different mother language to ensure employees feel further supported and valued?

Respect different cultures. In some cultures, people may be more indirect or hesitant to speak up in large groups. Consider alternatives for hearing from people, like accepting written advice or holding meetings with smaller groups. 

If someone is finding it difficult to understand what’s happening in the workplace, I’d encourage the use of visual aids, written notices or recordings.

If you could express one wish for how people should observe Mother Language Day, what would it be? 

Language is about connection and speaking different languages provides more connections. I hope that this day can help us dispel barriers and create more respectful, inclusive spaces. 

Becca’s story is a powerful reminder that language is a bridge, not a barrier. By embracing linguistic diversity, we create a workplace that is not only inclusive but also enriched by different cultures and perspectives.

Thanks for sharing your story with us, Becca! For more information on International Mother Language Day, click here. 

The Plan details concrete steps that will improve accessibility across Transdev’s transport modes and business functions, building an inclusive culture in which employees, customers and partners can feel safe, respected and valued.

Chief Safety & Assurance Officer Huw Bridges said he was excited about the positive change that would be brought about by the Plan in the coming two years.

“Transdev supports more accessible and inclusive public transport experiences,” Mr Bridges said.   

“This Plan is a direct response to the diverse needs of our existing and future Journey Makers, and the communities we serve.

“It makes us accountable for embracing inclusive hiring practices, supports deeper partnerships with a range of industry stakeholders and creates more opportunities for everyone to thrive.

“Releasing and actioning this plan is an important step in growing a more socially responsible and inclusive culture that we’re proud to have grown at Transdev to date.”

A thumbnail of the front cover of Transdev Australia & New Zealand's 2024—2026 Accessibility & Inclusion Plan.
Read our Accessibility & Inclusion Action Plan
Accessible Version (Word)

We need our workforce and customer service approach to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.

Brian Brennan

Chief Executive Officer Brian Brennan said the Plan was relevant to an ever-changing society.

“We need our workforce and customer service approach to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve,” he said.

“In an environment where one in five Australians live with a disability, in which the population is ageing and highly culturally diverse, it’s vitally important that we further embed inclusive design across all components of our business.

“It’s a necessity to remain as successful and build on our culture where everyone can thrive and grow.”

The three-year Plan is the third document to be released in 2024 demonstrating Transdev’s commitment toward diversity, equity and inclusion outcomes, the others being the Reconciliation Action Plan and Gender Equality Action Plan.

A man in sunglasses looks at the camera from the drivers seat of a light rail vehicle in Sydney's Central Business District.
Operations Team Leader with Transdev Sydney Light Rail and veteran of the New Zealand Defence Force, Damien Pratt (pictured above).

To acknowledge this day, we’re proud to share the story of Sydney Light Rail Operations Team Leader and New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) veteran, Damien Pratt.

What motivated you to join the military and what branch did you serve in?

I was always interested in the military because I knew it would allow me to do some things that other occupations wouldn’t. This, alongside the physical aspect, was very appealing to me. I served in the 2/1st Royal Infantry Battalion within the Army.

What lessons did you learn during your service? 
 
I joined the military as quite a shy person, which was quickly drilled out of me. It taught me discipline, self-control, teamwork, improvisation, how important preparation is and that to excel at something, you need to be doing it day in, day out, at a very high level. 
 
What did a typical day look like when you were serving?
 
I’d arrive at my platoon building for up to two hours of physical training, which would be followed by a range of different activities. This training might be for weapons, navigation, urban/close country and open assault, helicopters, working on our kits or whatever else they might have planned for us that day. On rare occasions, we were lucky enough to be sent home after physical training.
 
Life in the field was something different entirely. This might involve waking 30 minutes before sunrise, laying on cold ground to await an enemy attack. Once stood down, we’d need to pack up our position as though we were never there and move onto another, conducting different exercises during the day and night. This would include overnight, where for periods of a time we’d be responsible for ‘sentry’, which is about watching out for the enemy. 
 
What values from your military experience have you carried over to your civilian career?
 
The four values of the NZDF are courage, commitment, comradeship and integrity, which I’ve definitely brought into my civilian career.
 
How did teamwork and camaraderie in the military impact your perspective on working with others? 
 
When you live with people around the clock, you share your life with them. You build a strong bond with people who you work, play, bleed, cry and live through challenging times with. You really rely on one another. This teaches the real meaning of teamwork and a very positive perspective on working with others.
 
What’s the best way for companies to respect and honour those who’ve served?
 
It’s incredibly important to remember and honour those who’ve served, particularly those who’ve lost their life doing so. AS a company, I think just acknowledging this makes all the difference. It helps veterans, their families and friends feel as though they haven’t served for nothing. 
 
Is there a specific memory that is brought to mind for you on Remembrance Day? Would you like to share it?
 
I often think about the five soldiers I knew who were killed in action, as well as friends I’ve had who have lost their battle with their mental health. I think about these people a lot and have a tattoo dedicated to them, even when it’s not Remembrance Day, but today moreso.
 
What advice would you give to someone currently serving who is planning to transition into the civilian workforce?
 
The skills, service and sacrifice the military has taught you is your key to successfully transitioning to the private sector.
 
How can companies such as ours better support veterans in this process? 
 
Veterans transitioning need mentors and teammates to help them navigagte this journey. It can be overwhelming and frightening it all you know is the structured, regimented life of the military.
 
What would you like others to know about the sacrifices made by those who serve?
 
People who serve make an untold number of sacrifices in their service. You’ll most likely never know nor see the pain that these sacrifices might cause, as they’ll hide it very well. 
 
What symbols or traditions from your military experience hold special meaning on Remembrance Day? 
 
The red poppy as it has special significance for New Zealanders and Australians as they were among the first to flower in the devastated battlefields of northern France and Belgium in the First World War. In soldiers’ folklore, the vivid red of the poppy came from the blood of their comrades soaking the ground.
 
You wear a red poppy on Remembrance Day for three reasons:
  • in memory of the sacred dead who rest in Flanders’ Fields
  • to keep alive the memories of the sacred cause for which they laid down their lives
  • as a bond of esteem and affection between the soldiers of all Allied nations and in respect for France, our common battleground.
We’d like to thank Damien for kindly sharing his story with us, his service to his nation and his assistance in highlighting the significance of this day. 
 
If you’re a veteran considering reentering the workforce, we’d love to hear from you. You can find roles on offer by visiting our recruitment portal. 
 
If you’d like to learn more about Remembrance Day, you can do so via the Australian Defence Force website here.
 

The annual staff awards attracted more than 500 nominations for nine individual and team awards. 

Transdev Australia and New Zealand CEO Brian Brennan said the award winners and finalists were rewarded and voted on for their consistent performance. 

“The calibre of all our people – our Journey Makers, is really first class,” Mr Brennan said. 

“I’m so proud to lead a business of people who have such a high level of dedication, talent and service spread across all our local teams. 

“Public transport is all about people – and we support and nurture our Journey Makers so they can keep our transport networks moving.” 

Transdev’s 2024 Journey Makers Awardees 

High Achiever
Adam Richey – Zero Emissions Bus Onboard and Systems Officer
Transdev Queensland 

Team Player
Brendan Hyland – Team Leader
Great River City Light Rail, Transdev Sydney 

Quiet Achiever
Mokshagna Pokuri – IT Service Desk Analyst
Transdev Australia 

Customer Advocate
Chris Mechen – Train Manager
Transdev Wellington 

Sustainability Star
Ryan Gelder – Operations Supervisor
Transdev Western Australia 

Community Champion
Tammara Husband – General Purpose Hand
Transdev Sydney Ferries  

Team of the Year
Transdev Sydney Ferries Assets Team

Chief Operations Officer – Brilliant Basics
Transdev John Holland – Bondi Junction Incident Team 

Chief Executive Award – Care, Share, Dare
Yarra Trams Bid Submission Team 
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