Half a century on the move – Swan Transit’s Shane Butcher celebrates 50 years of driving public transport forward
Few Australians can say they have dedicated 50 years to keeping communities connected, but Swan Transit’s Shane Butcher has done just that. From trams in Bendigo and Melbourne to buses in Perth, Shane’s career is a testament to passion, resilience and a commitment to public transport. As he reaches this incredible milestone, Shane reflects on a journey that has spanned generations, technological leaps and countless memorable moments on the road.
A career driven by passion
For Shane, the spark came early.
“My earliest memories are of standing on the seat of a Bendigo tram as a toddler, gripping the windowsill while shopping with Mum,” Shane said.
“That moment ignited my love for public transport and I knew I wanted to be part of it.”
At just 14 years and 10 months old, Shane began his career in May 1975, working as a tram conductor in Bendigo. By 1980, on his 20th birthday, Shane took the next step, joining Melbourne’s tramways at Hawthorn Training Centre and becoming a driver in 1981. Over the next 18 years, he drove trams across Kew, Glen Huntly and East Preston depots, witnessing the evolution from conductor-assisted travel to driver-only operations.
In 1999, a new chapter began when he moved to Perth and traded tram tracks for buses . He joined the Transperth bus network as a driver, and with Swan Transit, became a fixture at Canning Vale Depot.
Fifty years of change and commitment
For more than five decades, Shane has seen public transport transformed, from manual ticketing to digital systems, heritage vehicles to modern fleets and the introduction of accessibility innovations that make travel easier for all passengers.
“Technology has changed so much but the heart of public transport remains the same and that is getting people where they need to go safely and reliably.” Shane said.
Reflecting on his journey, Shane has had countless memorable moments, from assisting passengers in need to navigating unexpected situations on the job. One that stands out was a late 1989 accident, where a young driver lost control of her car and crashed into his tram.
“She was badly shaken but thankfully uninjured,” he recalled.
“I stayed with her until help arrived, just making sure she was okay. A few days later, she sent a letter to thank me. That’s what makes this job so rewarding.”
A respected leader in the industry
According to Brian Thompson, Managing Director, Swan Transit, Shane represents the best of the industry.
“Shane’s dedication and professionalism are extraordinary. Fifty years in public transport is a milestone few ever reach and his passion for the job is as strong as ever,” Thompson said.
“He’s been a role model for his colleagues and a friendly, familiar face for passengers. Swan Transit is incredibly proud to celebrate this achievement with him.”
Advice for the next generation
Asked what makes a great public transport operator, Shane’s answer is simple, people.
“I have worked under some amazing leaders who genuinely listen to their teams. That makes all the difference,” he said.
“Public transport is not only about getting from A to B. It’s also about service, community and keeping cities moving.”
For new drivers, Shane has some sage advice.
“I have seen thousands come and go over the years, but if you want a job with stability, purpose and a real impact on people’s lives, you could do a lot worse,” Shane said.
As for what’s next? Shane has no plans to slow down.
“This has been my life’s journey and I wouldn’t change a thing,” he said.
“Public transport will keep evolving, but one thing will never change and that is the need for good people to keep our cities moving.”
