Top gong for popular bus driver

Published 7:34am 14 April 2025

Words by Kylie Knight

Well-known Redcliffe Peninsula bus driver Isapela (Bella) Tuimavave Leaupepe has been named the 2024 South East Queensland Bus Driver of the Year.

Known to her customers on Hornibrook Bus Lines services as Miss Frangipani due to the signature flower in her hair, Bella has been driving on the Peninsula for 23 years.

Translink’s annual Bus Driver of the Year Awards recognise and celebrate remarkable bus drivers who go the extra mile every day for their customers.

From a field of more than 1300 nominations, nine finalists across three categories made the trip to the Queensland Bus Industry Council’s annual awards dinner in Cairns on Saturday, with the winners decided by public vote.

Bella was crowned South East Queensland’s top urban bus driver at the awards ceremony, where she was presented with a trophy and $1000 cash prize, and her efforts were acknowledged by industry peers and colleagues.

The great-grandmother radiates positivity and warmth with her infectious smile and sunny outlook on life. She has spent 23 years driving, spreading positive energy, laughing with customers and adding a touch of joy to their day.

“Wow, it's amazing, overwhelming and an honour for me to win this,” she says.

“From the bottom of my heart I would like to say thank you very, very much for nominating me and supporting me with this amazing award.

“Come and drive buses, it is a beautiful job.”

Head of Translink Dr Deborah Hume says the awards recognise the efforts, skills and professionalism of some of the “finest bus drivers in Queensland”.

“To stand out amongst a field of more than 1300 nominations is a fantastic achievement and each finalist and their operator should be immensely proud,” she says.

“Congratulations to all finalists and to our three winners, whose efforts and service have been recognised by their customers and is testament to the exceptional service and dedication provided to their passengers and community.

“To each and every driver, service delivery partner, and all the staff keeping our bus networks on the road, I would like to say a big thank you for all your hard work and effort when delivering public transport across the state.”