There’s something special about walking into work and seeing your family member already there. For most families, working together might seem like a challenge. But for Lisa, Leigh and Daniel, it’s just another part of their day-to-day.
At our new Woden bus depot, Daniel works alongside both his parents, Lisa and Leigh. All three have built their careers behind the wheel with Lisa and Leigh as bus drivers and Daniel recently stepping into the Starters Office after gaining a promotion.
“Even with different shifts, we still see each other a fair bit,” Lisa says. “At the depot, at home, sometimes even passing each other on the road.”
Lisa has been a bus driver with Transport Canberra for three years and she also serves as a RED officer to support her colleagues on matters of respect, equity and diversity.
Driving a bus wasn’t something she imagined herself doing, she shares – but now it’s one of the most fulfilling parts of her day. Her husband Leigh was the one who encouraged her to try it out and now she’s loving it.
“I never expected to enjoy it so much,” she admits. “There’s something really rewarding about being out on the road, helping people get where they need to go, having quick chats with passengers. Sometimes it’s just a smile or a hello, it’s just making someone’s day a little better.”
Leigh, who’s been driving with Transport Canberra for 16 years, agrees. Living by his life motto – “hurry-free, worry-free”, he enjoys helping people and spreading kindness. Leigh also has a great love for music and he loves to share it with his passengers. “I always have something playing on my bus,” he says. “It makes the day more enjoyable, for me and the passengers.”
Daniel grew up watching his parents work hard and it’s shaped who he is. Influenced by both his parents’ dedication, kindness and passion, Daniel decided to continue the family legacy of serving the community and making a real difference in people’s lives. Daniel’s recent promotion to become a Starters Officer felt like a family win.
Daniel credits his strong work ethic to both his parents and lights up when talking about his mum. “They’ve both been strong influences on me,” he says. “Lisa especially – she’s the mother figure in my life and she’s an absolute force. She always is in everything she does. She’s strong, thoughtful and leads by example,” he proudly shares. “I wouldn’t be where I am without her.”
To Leigh, Lisa is not only a caring and lovable life partner, but also an inspiration. Their move to Canberra many years ago was sparked by Lisa’s career, a decision the whole family got behind.
“We’ve always backed each other,” she says. “At home, at work, it’s just what we do.” And while their workplace roles may be different now, their bond remains steady. Whether it’s supporting each other during a tough shift, celebrating small wins, or simply sharing a laugh in the breakroom, they show what it means to turn a job into a shared journey.
Woden bus depot also holds a special place in their hearts. “It’s a beautiful space to work in,” Lisa adds, “and we’re proud to be part of a supportive team that helps each other out.”
For this trio, their togetherness means everything. This Mother’s Day, they’re keeping things simple. “Probably a nice dinner, nothing fancy,” Lisa smiles. “The main thing is we’re together as a family.”
