Media Release
12/12/2017
Mount Tamborine local, Michael Smith, has been announced as the State’s Taxi Driver of the Year (Conventional Vehicle) in the prestigious Taxi Council of Queensland’s (TCQ) Industry Awards, held at the Easts Leagues Club on Wednesday 22 November 2017.
The 40 year veteran of the industry is renowned for offering fantastic service to each and every one of his customers, and doing his job with a smile and helpful nature every time.
He has received multiple commendations from the public and his peers, and also boasts a pristine driving record with no at-fault speeding or traffic infringements.
Michael Smith said he was originally attracted to work in the industry by the flexible hours and the ability to be his own boss, however his passion for his customers has kept him here.
“From business people to the elderly and everyone in between, I love getting to know the people who step into my cab,” he said.
“You can get of pretty good idea of anyone’s life story after half an hour of chatting.
“I always make an effort to make my customers feel a little bit special, even if it’s simply by hopping out of the car to open their door for them.”
In addition, Michael participates in the Yellow Cabs Ambassador program and plays an ongoing hands-on role as a mentor for new drivers.
“I think every new driver should have a mentor that they can call on to assist with answering the questions that only come to mind once they start driving.
“Some new drivers have mates in the industry, but others have no one to ask.” Mr Smith said.
TCQ CEO, Blair Davies, congratulated Michael on winning his award and on the outstanding contribution he continues to make to the industry.
“We need our experienced taxi drivers like Michael helping new drivers to learn the ropes because better drivers mean better service to our customers. In the end, everyone wins with better service because it’s one of the keys to seeing more fares, more often for every driver,” said Mr Davies.
Full list of 2017 Taxi Council Queensland Industry Awards is as follows:
- Driver of the Year (Conventional Vehicle) – Michael Smith
- Driver of the Year (WAT) – Alan Tucker
- Customer Service Award – Lorraine Kamp
- Significant Achievement Award – Jan Butterworth
- Operator of the Year 1-20 – Tejinder Dhother
- Operator of the Year 21-100 – Ronnie Woods
- Operator of the Year 100+ – Sacha Moore & Zara Trengrove
ENDS