Perth taxi drivers honoured at 2009 award ceremony

Transport Minister Simon O'Brien has congratulated category winners at this year's Taxi Driver of the Year Awards, held at the Burswood Entertainment Complex.

Mr O'Brien said that this was an important occasion for honouring and publicly recognising Western Australia's taxi drivers.

"I wish to extend my congratulations to John Kosik, who was named as the 2009 WA Taxi Driver of the Year," he said.

"Mr Kosik was honoured for demonstrating compassion and initiative during a recent medical emergency involving his passenger.

"The passenger was suffering side effects of an existing medical condition and Mr Kosik's actions helped prevent what I am advised could have become a fatal situation for his passenger.

"There is no doubt he acted above and beyond the call of duty when the incident occurred. His personal and professional commitment sets an example and should be admired."

The Minister said other individuals honoured included:

·                Tourism Taxi Driver of the Year:  Michael Beadle

·                Safety Driver of the Year:  Frances Morton

·                Access Driver of the Year:  Stephen Hazelwood

Mr O'Brien said the awards were a great opportunity to thank the industry for the work it does and to recognise those individual winners who have delivered outstanding service during the past year.

"I would like to say a special thank you to all of the 120 drivers who were nominated by their customers.  The quality of their work underpins the reputation of this industry, which is something to be very proud of," he said.

"250 nominations were received this year from taxi passengers.  I thank them all for taking the time to nominate these drivers and acknowledging the valuable contributions they make to our day- to-day lives.

"It is really exciting to see so many drivers taking great pride in their work.

"I look forward to working with the taxi industry in the future, making the necessary changes that will benefit both drivers and the community."