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.”
You can vote for Sue now here until 21 March.