The 2025 BusNSW Driver of the Year Awards were presented at the BusNSW 2025 End of Year Event on 1 December.
Greater Sydney
Winner: Juhandi Susanto from Transdev John Holland Buses
Juhandi is known for his reliability, can-do attitude, and the consistently high standard he brings to every shift. He is admired by colleagues for his generosity and willingness to help, consistently going above and beyond.
Whether stepping in for last-minute service changes, assisting new drivers as they learn the ropes, or ensuring passengers reach their destinations safely during disruptions, Juhandi demonstrates unwavering commitment and exceptional pride in his role.
Customers regularly praise his smooth and considerate driving, with one commenting that the ride was so steady they “could have painted their nails on the bus”.
Juhandi’s technical skill and pride is reflected in his driving. He is appreciated at his depot for his meticulous safety checks, mastery of all bus types, and zero at-fault incidents in the past year.
Juhandi’s dedication, pride, and positive spirit make him an outstanding ambassador for the industry.
Outer-Metropolitan
Winner: Trevor Lightfoot from Keolis Downer Hunter
Trevor is known for his calm, relaxed driving style and the genuine connection he builds with his passengers. Colleagues often remark on the joy he brings to the job and customers affectionately know him as ‘Helpful Trev’.
His commitment to personal and professional growth is inspiring. In 2025, he has achieved perfect attendance, and throughout his career has shared his expertise with younger bus drivers.
With over 30 years in the industry, Trevor carries unmatched route knowledge and a motto of “preparation is key“. His dedication shines through in his exceptional performance results. He has an On Time Running score of over 99%, zero at-fault accidents in recent years, and one of the lowest RAG scores, a testament to his safe and smooth driving.
Trevor has also been recognised through the Kudos Service & Recognition Awards for his long-standing loyalty to Keolis Downer. His commitment, skill, and genuine care for passengers make him a deserving recipient of this award.
Rural and Regional
Winner: Marinus Philipse from Busways
Marinus has been a trusted and respected employee of Busways for 19 years, consistently demonstrating a willingness to help and a pride in his work that sets him apart.
Known for his exceptional customer service and attentiveness, particularly with elderly or less mobile passengers, Marinus never hesitates to go above and beyond to ensure every person boards and leaves the bus safely and comfortably. The depot regularly receives calls from passengers praising his courtesy and kindness.
Marinus also takes immense pride in maintaining his bus. To him, a clean bus is a reflection of professionalism, care, and respect for the people who rely on the service.
Inside the depot, Marinus is equally valued. Whether it is sharing ideas, supporting administrative staff, or actively helping and guiding new drivers, his positive influence contributes to a stronger, more supportive workplace environment.
Throughout his career, he has earned a reputation based on courtesy, reliability, and exceptional service, making him a deserving recipient of this award.
Coach and Charter
Winner: Michael Hey-Cunningham from CHAT Coaches (Coach Holidays And Tours)
Michael is known not only for his exceptional driving skill but also for the genuine warmth and calm he brings to every journey. He approaches each tour with patience, positivity, and a natural ability to put people at ease.
One of his most outstanding qualities is his exceptional commentary. Michael delivers stories that are meticulously researched, engaging, and informative, bringing every destination to life. Passengers consistently describe his insights as a highlight of their journey.
Michael takes immense pride in his work, and his commitment to providing a first-class experience for passengers from the moment they board is reflected in his attention to detail and immaculate condition of his coach.
With a career spanning over 40 years, Michael has become known for his dependability, knowledge, and genuine passion for his work. He is also known for his care for older passengers.
Michael’s experience, commitment, passion for the industry make him an exceptional representative of the coach and charter sector.
BusNSW Bus & Coach Driver Awards are sponsored by CareSuper.