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.