Bruce Whalley
Mr KENNEDY (Hawthorn) (09:59): Today I would like to focus on a treasured member of our Hawthorn and Melbourne community, Melbourne’s happiest tram driver, Bruce Whalley. As you all know, I am a keen advocate for public transport and have taken the 75 tram or a Hawthorn train nearly every day of my life. Now, if you have ever had the pleasure of being on a tram whilst Bruce is driving you will definitely remember it. Bruce’s unique, hilarious commentary brightens everyone’s day. The other week I had the pleasure of riding on his tram, and it was fantastic to see the faces of my constituents light up. He even welcomed me on the PA system as I boarded the tram—it does not get any better than that. I know that for many commuters the daily tram ride can be a bit of a slog, especially after a tough couple of years. But Bruce’s infectious happiness really boosts our community. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Bruce for making not just my day but the days of many of my constituents. He is an example of someone who really draws our community together, and he is the kind of person that makes me proud to be Victorian. I encourage anyone who gets the 75 to look out for Bruce, always with a bow tie and often providing helpful commentary about each of the stops that the 75 stops at.