Bus NSW Conference

Ms JENNY AITCHISON (Maitland—Minister for Regional Transport and Roads)—It was a real thrill to attend the recent Bus NSW Conference and personally hand out so many well-deserved awards. Eliza Baldwin from Baldwins Buses Tocumwal received the high achiever award in recognition of her exceptional leadership and management of the iconic Riverina family business. Matthew Geary was named inaugural apprentice of the year recognising his outstanding commitment, advocacy and mentoring work. Kinetic took home the environment and innovation award for its leadership in reducing emissions and participation in the Zero Emissions Bus trials. I note these trials have now been expanded to Armidale and Tweed Heads clocking up more than 64,000 kilometres and over 25,000 passenger journeys. Buses are the biggest mode of public transport in NSW. Thank you to the dedicated owners, operators and employees who provide this critical transport service to our communities. Your work, commitment to safety, passion for improving services and willingness to adapt and innovate are reasons why passengers choose you to get around. Every day I hear stories of the positive impacts your work is having on communities statewide. I congratulate the inspirational bus and coach industry representatives honoured at the Bus NSW Conference. Thank you!