Behind the wheel with Barbra - lifetime of school bus memories

For more than 54 years, Barbra Marshall has been a trusted driver in Denmark and Albany, WA, guiding three generations of school kids safely to and from school, while creating lasting connections along the way. At 76, with five children and seven grandchildren of her own, Barbra’s passion for her job remains as strong as ever. And she wouldn’t change a thing.

From country roads to the driver’s seat

Barbra’s journey into bus driving wasn’t planned, it was simply the right fit. Originally working 30km away at the mills, she took the opportunity to become a local school bus driver, enticed by the idea of a job closer to home. It turned out to be one of the best decisions she ever made.

She first earned her bus licence on June 19, 1970, and has been on the road ever since.

Respected on the road

Transport has traditionally been a male-dominated industry, but Barbra has never felt out of place.

“I have never had any challenges as a woman in this field. The other male drivers have never belittled me.  In fact, they have always been amazing, very respectful and always supportive,” she says.

One person who has particularly stood out in her career is Justin Goldsmith, Operations Manager at Swan Transit in Albany. “Justin has been so supportive of me and that kind of leadership makes all the difference.”

A lifetime of lessons and legacies

Barbra credits her mother as her biggest inspiration. “She had a ‘can-do’ attitude. She always believed that gender doesn’t dictate what you can and can’t do until you try.”

That philosophy has driven Barbra’s long and fulfilling career and her advice to other women considering the transport industry is simple.

“Just have a go. Don’t be intimidated by the size of the bus or the kids. You will get used to both!”

Her greatest achievement? Seeing the impact she has made over decades. “I have driven three generations of kids. That’s something special. They all know me by my first name - just Barbra.”

Balancing work, life and the open road

When she’s not behind the wheel, Barbra enjoys life on her 400-acre farm. “Getting out of the house, being active and meeting people keeps me motivated.”

As International Women’s Day approaches, Barbra’s story is a testament to resilience, passion and the joy of doing what you love. With more than half a century of bus driving under her belt, she proves that a career is all about the connections, the community and for Barbra, the kids.

For Barbra, that journey is far from over. Retirement? Not a chance. She has no plans to hang up the keys anytime soon.  There are plenty more kids to drive and more memories to make.