For Cathy, being a bus driver is about helping people move through their day with ease, safety and a smile. As a proud Transit Systems NSW driver, she brings warmth, resilience and a deep sense of community to every shift.

Whether it’s raining or shining, Cathy sees her role as one centred on service. She says, “A smile can brighten anyone’s day,” and she offers hers freely.

A CAREER CHANGE DRIVEN BY PURPOSE

Cathy joined the transport industry seeking something new, a fresh challenge that still allowed her to help people.

“I wanted a change, to try something new, but still be involved in helping people,” she says. Driving offered just that: a role where she could be out in the community, making a difference daily.

A WOMAN STANDING STRONG IN A MALE‑DOMINATED INDUSTRY

Cathy is honest about the challenges she has faced as a woman. From navigating a male‑dominated workforce to balancing motherhood and the emotional load that comes with it.

But instead of stepping back, she found her strength.

“All you need to do is use your voice and stand up for yourself, whether it’s with co‑workers or passengers.”

Her message is one of empowerment, resilience and self‑advocacy.

WHAT “GIVE TO GAIN” MEANS TO HER

This year’s International Women’s Day theme, Give to Gain, resonates strongly with Cathy.

“When we help women succeed, we all benefit,” she says simply, it’s a reminder that progress grows when women lift one another up.

INSPIRED BY HER MOTHER’S WORDS

Cathy credits her mother as the biggest influence in her life.

“She always said education is power and you can achieve anything if you want to.”

It’s advice that has guided her, pushed her and helped her persevere through challenges at work and at home.

ENCOURAGING MORE WOMEN TO JOIN THE INDUSTRY

To women considering a career in transport, Cathy’s message is clear:

“You need to be resilient and have a voice to communicate your concerns. But us women stick together and help each other out.”

She believes deeply in the strength and solidarity that women bring to the workforce.

A MORE INCLUSIVE, WELCOMING WORKPLACE

Cathy has seen positive changes in diversity and inclusion and celebrates the increase in women being given opportunities.

“Women can work just as hard, and customers are happy to see a female driver. They feel their voices are being heard.”

Cathy appreciates being part of a workforce that reflects teh community it serves.

PROUDEST ACHIEVEMENT: STANDING STRONG AND GROWING CONFIDENT

Cathy’s proudest moments aren’t tied to a single event but to the growth she has experienced.

She is proud of:

• Learning new skills

• Standing up for herself

• Improving the daily lives of passengers

• Seeing how something as simple as a smile can change someone’s entire day

• These achievements reflect her journey not just as a driver, but as a person building confidence and purpose.

BALANCING LIFE AS A SINGLE MUM

As a single mother juggling work and home, Cathy understands what true resilience looks like.

“It can be hard at first, but with patience, planning and resilience, it gets easier. You just keep moving forward.”

Her motivation comes from her children, her responsibilities and her goals that drive her toward a better future.

WHAT SHE HOPES TO SEE CHANGE FOR WOMEN

Cathy’s hopes for the future are practical and important:

• Ensuring women feel safe

• Avoiding situations where women may feel uncomfortable

• More accessible toilet facilities for women’s health needs

These improvements would support not only comfort but dignity for women in the workplace.

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