I was on the bus yesterday, heading into town to have lunch with a friend. After two stops there was a lady with a baby and a pram attempting to get onto the bus and was having a few issues. I jumped out of my seat to assist her when… what was this… the bus driver did the same thing. He got out of his seat and went to the ends of the earth to help this young woman get on the bus and make her comfortable before continuing the journey.

Before I go any further I would like to introduce you to George:

George would have to be one of the liveliest and kindest bus drivers that I have come across to date. While we were on the bus he was pointing out local landmarks, announced every stop that we arrived at, greeted people with a friendly smile and “Welcome Aboard”. He was telling jokes and getting everyone laughing as well. It felt more like a tour bus than public transport, and this was outstanding for a bit of a change.

For me one of the things I really noticed was how it brought everyone in the bus that little bit closer, by having a laugh and some common ground to talk on, I was able to have some really good conversations with all the people around me. This is something that normally does not occur anymore, at least in Sydney, as if you try to strike up a conversation with a stranger, even just to say hello, they are wondering what you are after.

So I would like to say… Well Done George, you really made the trip a laugh and a memorable one. Keep up the great work and don’t stop smiling.

Stuart