News
9 April, 2024
Kilcoy bus driver shines
Kilcoy bus driver John Christensen was among the award winners, as the 2023 Queensland Bus Driver of the Year Awards gala night took place at the Gold Coast last Saturday.
John, of Christensen’s Bus and Coach, was named Regional Bus Driver of the Year, as the event was the Queensland Bus Industry Council’s annual conference.
John said he felt “blown away”, and that the award meant so much to him.
“It makes me feel more appreciated in the community,” he said.
“The award means people will realise that we have great operators and a great service, and we appreciate all their support.”
Known as ‘Christo’ in Kilcoy, John and his wife Lenore have operated Christensen’s Bus and Coach for nearly 50 years.
He was nominated for playing a vital role in fostering the well-being and prosperity of his community, standing out with his daily maintenance checks and willingness to go the extra mile for passengers by helping with groceries or lending a hand.
Clontarf-based Luluu Berns of Hornibrook Buslines was named South East Queensland Bus Driver of the Year, while Yeppoon-based Mark Nel of CDC Queensland was named School Bus Driver of the Year.
After the finalists were selected by an expert judging panel from more than 1800 nominations, more than 13,000 votes were counted as the winners were determined by a public vote on three finalists in three categories.
Acting Head of Translink, Peter Milward, said the Bus Driver of the Year Awards were all about recognising the eff orts, skill and professionalism of some of the finest bus drivers in Queensland.
“To stand out amongst a field of 1800 nominations is a fantastic achievement, and each finalist and their operator should be immensely proud,” he said.
