Transdev’s Queensland team is delivering an improved bus network for the Redlands and Brisbane’s eastern suburbs.

A major bus network upgrade started on Monday 29 May with more direct services into Brisbane city, dozens of extra services to Redlands Hospital and access to the large Shoreline residential estate.

Transdev Qld Managing Director Mark McKenzie said he thanked Translink for the service investment.

“The Redlands is growing and it’s great that residents now have improved access to the hospital, residential areas and the city”

“The Redlands is growing and it’s great that residents now have improved access to the hospital, residential areas and the city,” Mr McKenzie said.

“Our team has put a lot of work in to making sure customers are aware of the new services and also run them smoothly.

“From planning to having staff out on the network to help customers, we’ve had a lot of good feedback already.”

For details on the new services, visit Translink.

Transit Systems will take over running Transdev’s Region 13 buses from this Sunday. 

Transdev will conclude operations in Region 13 on Saturday 5 August, with the 11:50pm route 905 (Bankstown to Georges Hall) being the last operational Transdev NSW bus.

Transdev Australia and New Zealand CEO Brian Brennan said he was proud of Transdev’s achievements throughout the years, providing exceptionally safe and reliable transport to millions of customers.  

“We thank our customers for allowing us to be part of their lives — helping them to get to school, work and study, safely and on time,” Mr Brennan said.

Transdev NSW Managing Director Robert Macey said drivers, maintenance and administrative staff were offered redeployment options on the same terms and conditions, ensuring continuity and stability of services. 

“I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the incredible teams and their unwavering dedication and support in keeping Sydney communities moving since the late 1990’s,” Mr Macey said.

“It has been a pleasure and honour to serve and my gratitude to the communities and customers who have supported Transdev NSW over the years.”

Despite the conclusion of its standalone Greater Sydney bus operations, Transdev remains a major public transport operator in Sydney.

Transdev continues running the largest bus contract and busiest bus routes in Australia on the eastern suburbs of Sydney in Bus Region 9 within a joint venture of Transdev John Holland. 

Transdev also continues to run Sydney’s Light Rail network and Sydney Ferries and will also operate the new Parramatta Light Rail network next year. 

It has been a pleasure and honour to serve and my gratitude to the communities and customers who have supported Transdev NSW over the years.

Transdev NSW Managing Director Rob Macey

Transdev has launched an environmental dashboard that automates the  collection of transport fleet data from power use to diesel emissions.

As the world marks World Environment Day today, Transdev is one of the few public transport operators using the software to help minimise its environmental footprint around Australia and New Zealand.

The dashboard measures the quantity of fossil fuels used (diesel, compressed natural gas, petrol and electricity) as well as water use across more than 2000 Transdev buses, trams and ferries in Sydney and buses in Perth and in Brisbane.

Transdev Safety and Assurance Chief Huw Bridges said the dashboard monitored green house gas emissions from Transdev operations and the impact of various initiatives to reduce those emissions. 

Mr Bridges said the dashboard was part of Transdev’s commitment to cut carbon emissions intensity by 30% by 2030.

“As Europe’s leading zero emission transport operator, we have similar aspirations for our Australian operations,” Mr Bridges said.

“This system, a first for Transdev globally, is improving our ability to deliver against the sustainability targets of our Government clients and our global business.

“Not only does it given an accurate picture of our emissions but shows the impact of specific initiatives as they are rolled out.  

“From smarter technology like this dashboard, smarter depots to cleaner zero emission vehicles, Transdev is moving greener to have a positive impact on the climate.”

Mr Bridges said the software gave Transdev operations and depots more clarity and power to visualise and reduce diesel, electricity and water use.

“With a clearer view of our energy use we can be more efficient and reduce our overall carbon footprint,” Mr Bridges said.

“The system collects data, minimises resources required and increases accuracy for improved reporting to clients, the Australian Clean Energy Regulator and to the Transdev Group.”

Mr Bridges said Transdev Australia and New Zealand were leading the way for the broader Transdev global group in this area.

The system will also track the diversion rate of waste generated from our facilities and public transport networks from landfill to recycling. 

This allows us to improve our recycling performance across all our businesses and strengthens Transdev’s ambition to #BeatPlasticPollution, in alignment with the 2023 theme of  World Environment Day.

Using a mobile phone app, customers can order rides from 17 seater buses operating without set routes between flexible pick-up and drop-off locations, or ‘virtual stops’.

The On Demand service, run with a fleet of five buses, has been trialled during the last 12 months with a flat fare of $2.50 to travel between Kenepuru down to Grenada North.

The service has proved popular with commuters and people just wanting to get round the area during the day, whether to see friends, go shopping or access community facilities or get to school.

Craig Chin, Chief Executive of Mana Coaches, which runs the service, said his team was proud of the partnership with the Greater Wellington Regional Council and community.

“Our Mana team is really conscious of the improved community and transport connections it offers,” Mr Chin said.

“Our team is focused on providing excellent customer service and constantly seeking to serve Tawa residents better.” 

Tawa On Demand is the smartest and cheapest way to get to: Outlet City, Kenepuru Hospital, Tawa Junction and local train stations like Linden, Tawa, Redwood and Takapu Road.

Customers can travel anywhere  across the suburb from 6.30 am to 8.00 pm Monday to Friday and 8.30 am to 7.30 pm on Saturdays.

Tawa on-demand customers can download the Via app for free from their mobile device’s app store or by visiting: metlink.org.nz/ondemand.

Peter Lensink, Transdev’s current Chief Officer & Managing Director of Transdev New Zealand, has been promoted to Chief Operations Officer for both Transdev Australia and New Zealand. 

In this expanded role, Peter will continue his existing New Zealand duties and will also oversee all Transdev’s  operational transport modes across bus, heavy rail, ferries and network solutions.

The Chief Operations Officer role is a critical role that will continue to drive improved safety compliance, performance and client and customer focus. 

Peter has a wealth of global knowledge in addition to New Zealand, with operational and business development experience in train and bus networks across the UK, Netherlands, Germany and Scandinavia.

He is a current board member of the Australasian Railway Association and speaks fluent German and Dutch.

Peter’s new expanded role is testament to his leadership, effectiveness, proactivity with clients and his respect for people.

Transdev has won the Translink 2023 South East QLD Bus Driver of the Year  for the second consecutive year with driver Sue Bishop crowned at the Queensland Bus Industry Council (QBIC) Gala Dinner in Cairns.

Now in its fifth year, the awards highlight drivers who have excelled in customer service.

Last night, Sue Bishop was presented the award by Deputy Director General of Translink, Sally Stannard at the QBIC event.

It comes after fellow Transdev QLD driver Kate Addley won the same prize in 2022.

Managing Director of Transdev QLD, Mark McKenzie attended the Gala Dinner and wasn’t surprised by Sue Bishop’s nomination.

“Sue is consistently providing customer service beyond expectations and is held in very high regard with passengers and her fellow colleagues, especially within the Redland island communities,” Mr McKenzie said.

“Many drivers go above and beyond to look after and deliver a great service for customers and these awards are an opportunity for the community to recognise and thank them for their efforts.”

With a professional driving career spanning 55 years, Sue has been driving buses for 33 years, with 11 years spent driving buses for Transdev in Brisbane and she loves life behind the wheel.

“Driving has made my life happier and 99% of the year I’m just as happy to be at work as I am at home,” Ms Bishop said.

Sue’s strong customer focus, friendly smile, and professional service have made her a favourite among commuters and she has a loyal passenger following.

She enjoys a lot of community support from the close-knit Southern Moreton Bay Island community of Macleay Island where she lives and also runs a pet grooming business.

Transdev’s Sue Bishop with Translink Deputy Director-General Sally Stannard.

Sue Bishop

Transdev Qld’s Operations Manager Tralee Cunningham (L-R) and Head of Business Operations Mark Thatcher with award winning bus driver Sue Bishop and Managing Director Mark McKenzie. 

Transdev’s award winning bus driver Sue Bishop on stage at the Qld Bus Industry Council Gala Dinner.

Transdev has marked Harmony Day by celebrating diverse and inclusive workplaces with social enterprise group MTC Australia in Sydney today.

 Transdev’s National Indigenous & Diversity Manager Sharon Stevenson and Head of Learning and Talent Kiersten Hocking,  joined community groups and other local employers to speak at MTC’s “Everyone Belongs – Together we are stronger” MTC Harmony Day event.

 MTC is a social enterprise that gives people from all walks of life the inspiration and capability through employment, training and programs. 

Transdev fosters an inclusive workplace with jobs available for people from all backgrounds and skill levels.

Ms Stevenson said Transdev was committed to reflecting the diversity of all the communities we served.

“We have people from more than 70 different nationalities working within Transdev workplaces across Australia and New Zealand,” Ms Stevenson said.

“We support applications of diverse backgrounds regardless of their backgrounds, identity, experience, age, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or whether from a culturally or racially marginalised group.”

Ms Hocking said it was rewarding to talk to potential employees and MTC, as a trusted employment partner, about a range of job opportunities.

“We have a range of jobs now in our Sydney bus business as bus drivers and mechanics and apprentices as well our Sydney  trams as drivers, in customer service or as an authorised officers,” Ms Hocking said.

“We value the contributions from people from different backgrounds because we know it reflects the customers and communities we serve.”

Transdev bus driver Sue Bishop is proudly vying to be South East Queensland’s Bus Driver of the Year. 

The Brisbane driver is one three driver finalists vying for the top gong – nominated by commuters.

Sue is a local celebrity throughout the Redlands coast and Southern Moreton Bay Islands and usually works four shifts a week across the eastern suburbs of Brisbane.

She’s known for her smooth driving, smiley service and friendly conversations.

Her professional driving career started with couriers and parcel delivery and Yellow cabs and limousine hire before turning to buses.

“I was with an ice skating team at Acacia Ridge when they asked me if I could get a bus licence to drive the team to Sydney to compete,” Ms Bishop said.

“The team booked a charter bus and I got talking to the driver on the trip along the way who suggested I get my bus licence and work for a bus company doing smaller runs.”

When Sue first turned the bus wheel 33 years ago, buses were double-clutch manuals with no air-conditioning long before electric vehicles with USB ports or digital displays came along.

Sue said while the technology, the industry and regulations had changed, she still enjoyed driving buses immensely.

“I really enjoy my job and I’m myself 52 weeks of the year. I smile at passengers and try and make people feel welcome and make them laugh,” Ms Bishop said.

“Some people want to talk, some don’t, and that’s ok. I just be genuine and kind and make people feel comfortable on board.

“The support I’ve received for these awards has just been amazing especially from customers across multiple generations.

“I’ve been inaundated with people wishing me well. So many people yell out or come up to me and say Sue, we voted for you or can I have your autograph. It really is unbelievable.”

The bus driver awards will be announced on Monday 17 April.

You can vote for Sue now here until 21 March.

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Transdev is marking today’s International Women’s Day with celebrations and events across its Australian and New Zealand operations.

Transdev Australasia CEO Luke Agati said this year’s theme, #EmbraceEquity, was an opportunity to reflect on ways to better support gender equity across Transdev operations and the broader transport sector.

“We support an environment that celebrates women and embraces everyone regardless of how they identify,” Mr Agati said.

“Today is about us joining the global celebration of the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. 

“We all need to keep challenging gender stereotypes and have the courage to call out discrimination and bias when we see it.”

 Some of Transdev’s recent efforts in improving equity have so far included:

• Annual pay gap reviews 

• Recruitment shortlist targets ensuring women are considered in any executive role and constitute:  

o 50% of all external shortlisted candidates  

o 35% of internal shortlisted candidates.  

• Policies, such as our Gender-Neutral Parental Leave Policy and Family Domestic Violence Policy & Support 

• Training modules on topics including Unconscious Bias and Workplace Bullying, Sexual Harassment & Discrimination.  

 Mr Agati said Transdev had strong female personnel and embracing equity was a goal worthy of more attention and action.

Evana Ludwig: Business Support Manager, Transdev Western Australia

“Growing up in small town New Zealand, there weren’t any female role models available outside my family. Within the family, my Nana was a tower of strength and the one in charge, for sure. Her passion and empathy engaged and endeared her to others, as well as an exceptional ability to deliver news which – though it might appear harsh – was direct, pragmatic, respected and welcomed by others. I try to apply these childhood lessons in my professional life.

 “Much as I love the thought of being a role model to others professionally, it’s comfort enough that my daughters – and sons – have learned these lessons from me in turn as they’ve grown up.

“For those with the ability or aspiration, transport is an exciting industry best suited to those that thrive in a fast-paced environment. Much like transport itself, the industry is always changing and evolving.

“It’s such a broad business and there’s so much of it to explore – whether in administration, searching for efficiencies and ways to get the best out of our people; or in operations, planning; the possibilities are endless.

 “My advice: remain open to everything and welcome challenges. Utilise the skills you learn along the way as stepping stones; collaborate with your peers and make the most of every day by treating it as a learning opportunity.

“Enjoy what you do! It’s an exciting industry and you’ve every opportunity to make your mark on it.”

Melissa Field: Customer Experience Manager, Transdev John Holland Buses 

“I first stumbled across Transdev at the height of my ‘quarter-life crisis’. Taking a complete 360 in my career path and transitioning from the music industry to the transport industry filled me with much uncertainty and, to be honest, a bit of an identity crisis. 

“Fortunately, Transdev took a chance on me and hired me as an intern. From there, I was supported by a range of inspiring managers, teams, learning experiences and professional development opportunities that opened my mind and seriously challenged me to grow at a rate that I never thought possible.

“Opportunities don’t crop up everyday, but when they do, seize them! 

“You may not think you’re ready for it right now, but back yourself and you will be. 

“There is a first time for everything, and the best way to learn is if you throw yourself into the deep-end and learn to swim.”

The three new Yutong E13s have started running on Transdev’s Howick and Eastern services across Auckland on routes 70 and 72.

Transdev New Zealand Chief Officer Peter Lensink said Transdev’s ebus fleet was now 16 adding to the 10 electric buses already running on the fully electric Metlink Airport Express in Wellington.

“Transdev is proud to be partnering with Auckland Transport and local bus supplier JW Group for this latest delivery, supporting sustainable public transport in Auckland,” Mr Lensink said.

“Locally and globally, we back greener transport fleets which are better for communities, customers and provides greater job opportunities.

 “Our goal is to help New Zealand cut emissions in half by 2030 and achieve net zero emissions by 2050.”

 Auckland Transport’s Group Manager of Metro Services Darek Koper said the new buses were another step in the right direction to decarbonise all of Auckland’s public transport.

 “It’s great for these communities to have these three new buses – offering improved air quality and reduced noise,” Mr Koper said.

 “It’s just a much more pleasant experience for everyone when one of these cleaner buses goes past.”

 JW Group General Manager Jo Crickett said the JW Group was excited to add to the Transdev fleet with another three full electric Yutong E13’s.  

 “We are privileged to receive the return business and confidence in our product and service and look forward to continuing the strong relationship into the future as we all seek to do our bit in decarbonisation of the NZ fleet.”

 Transdev’s Howick and Eastern General Manager Sheryll Otway said her team had already had some good feedback about the new vehicles.

 “Newer, cleaner and quieter vehicles is just one way our team is serving our Auckland community better,” Mrs Otway said.

 “We’ll continue working together with our partners and hope to bring more electric vehicles into the network soon.”

The new buses will run across Auckland from the CBD, to Botany, Panmure, Ellerslie, Greenland and Newmarket.

New Auckland ebus

Transdev has won a prestigious transport award for creating an innovative new system that improves customer service and better predicts future transport demands.

Transdev, and collaborating data science partner Lynxx, won the Excellence in Transport Data Award for its Network Solutions Analytics tool at the 13th Annual Intelligent Transport Systems Australia awards.

Transdev’s Head of Network Solutions Thibaud Robineau said the tool was a suite of tailored dashboards that gave more insights and power to improve transport networks with better outcomes for customers.

Mr Robineau said the system had been tested in Transdev’s West Australian, Queensland and New South Wales bus operations. 

He said some of its modules used cloud computing and artificial intelligence machine learning to give deeper insights.

“This tool gives visibility across the entire customer journey integrating operational data, ticketing information, weather and other datasets,” Mr Robineau said.

“It gives a more wholistic picture of a transport network or route and enables planners to give more accurate historic reports  and future use predictions.

“Transport planners can then dynamically adjust service offerings to meet changing customer expectations.

“One of the dashboards which is of most interest is the Summer Weather Analysis Tool (SWEAT).

“SWEAT will provide patronage forecasts based on weather forecasts and calendar events, leveraging machine learning to correlate these parameters in historical data.”

Mr Robineau said more datasets were being added to the system which could then be deployed to other transport modes including trams and ferries.

“The system is transferrable across modes and we’ve seen improvements in the bus model of 1.4% more services and reduced dead running by .7%.

“It’s exciting that we’re leading the industry with a tool with such comprehensive view of the customer journey and ability to improve the customer experience.

“We keep working with government and public transport agencies to achieve the best outcomes for customers.

“Transdev is continually innovating in transport technology to better serve our communities.”

Transdev’s Head of Network Solutions Thibaud Robineau receives the Transport Data Award from
UTS Professor Fang Chen.

The winning team from Transdev and Lynxx  (left to right): Joseph Yurisich, Kevin Mann, Constanza Castro, Matt McInnes, Daniel Borowski, Jake Somerville, Thibaud Robineau, Diogo Da Silva, Beau Bellamy and Mark Starikov.

Transdev will celebrate Sydney WorldPride Festival (17 February – 5 March) with a host of activities, celebrations and bedazlled trams and buses. 

As a proud transport partner, Transdev welcomes LGBTQIA+ people from across the globe for the festival.

Transdev Deputy CEO Brian Brennan said Transdev crews were ready to help visitors and participants get around the city via our trams, ferries and buses for the festival.

And you won’t miss some of our brightly wrapped trams and buses to help mark the occasion.

 “Transdev supports our people & customers, however they identify,” Mr Brennan said.

 “We’re a workplace that welcomes LGBTQIA+ all year round but especially during this month-long celebration. 

“We encourage our people to get involved in activities and tap into a host of wideranging online resources and training that covers everything from our comprehensive gender affirmation policy through to specific LGBTQIA+ travel advice. 

“As a proud Pride Network member, I’m proud we have an active internal network that supports inclusion and our people.

“Diversity and equity matters and it’s why we were recognised in the Australian LGBTQ Inclusion Awards as an Australian Workplace and Equality Index (AWEI) participating employer.”

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