The Story of Katrina: A Dedicated Bus Driver in Canberra
Katrina is not just a bus driver for Transport Canberra; she is a proud member of the occupational violence working group within the organization. Her passion for her job is evident as she describes it as the best job in the world. For the past five years, Katrina has been behind the wheel, navigating the streets of Canberra and ensuring passengers reach their destinations safely. But being a bus driver is more than just driving; it’s about interacting with the public, facing challenges, and finding joy in the journey.
The Love for the Job
Katrina’s journey as a bus driver began when she and her husband both applied for roles at Transport Canberra. With a young son at home, Katrina initially opted for a 9-5 job. However, once her children were older, she re-applied and found that the shift work of a bus driver suited her family perfectly. Her days are filled with driving around town, supervising at the depot, and embracing the changing seasons as she navigates the city.
The Challenges Faced by Bus Drivers
Like any job, being a bus driver comes with its challenges. From dealing with traffic delays to facing aggressive passengers, bus drivers like Katrina often find themselves in difficult situations. As a member of the occupational violence working group, Katrina is aware of the issues faced by her colleagues and works towards finding solutions to ensure a safe working environment for all.
One of the common triggers for occupational violence among bus drivers is fare evasion. Katrina notes that some passengers refuse to pay for their fares, leading to confrontations that can turn violent. Despite the challenges, Transport Canberra has implemented measures to support drivers, including protection screens, CCTV cameras on buses, and immediate assistance from Field Transport Officers and ACT Policing if needed.
The Resilience of Bus Drivers
Despite the challenges they face, bus drivers like Katrina remain dedicated to their jobs. With a focus on customer service, they navigate through the ups and downs of each day, finding joy in the interactions with passengers who appreciate their service. Katrina emphasizes the importance of staying positive and learning how to deal with difficult situations, knowing that support is always available.
As Katrina reflects on her experiences as a bus driver, she remains steadfast in her love for the job. She finds fulfillment in driving through the streets of Canberra, surrounded by the beauty of the city and the gratitude of her passengers. Despite the occasional challenges, Katrina believes there is no other job she would rather do.
Conclusion
Katrina’s story highlights the dedication and resilience of bus drivers who play a crucial role in keeping our cities moving. Their commitment to ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers, despite the challenges they face, is commendable. As we appreciate the hard work of bus drivers like Katrina, let us also recognize the importance of creating safe and supportive work environments for all frontline workers.
FAQs
- What measures are in place to support bus drivers facing occupational violence?
- Protection screens and CCTV cameras on buses
- Immediate assistance from Field Transport Officers and ACT Policing
- Training on dealing with difficult situations
- How can passengers help make ACT Government workplaces safe for bus drivers?
- Paying for fares and respecting drivers
- Being courteous and cooperative during bus journeys
- Reporting any incidents of aggression or violence to authorities