Isapela “Bella” Tuimavave Leaupepe, known to her passengers as “Miss Frangipani,” has been named South East Queensland’s top bus driver in the prestigious 2024 Translink awards. The popular Hornibrook Bus Lines driver has been a fixture on the Redcliffe Peninsula’s public transport network for over two decades.
Known for the trademark flower she wears in her hair, Leaupepe emerged victorious from a competitive field of more than 1,300 nominees across Queensland. She received her award—consisting of a trophy and $1,000 prize—at the Queensland Bus Industry Council’s annual ceremony held in Cairns last Saturday.
The great-grandmother has been driving buses throughout the Redcliffe Peninsula for 23 years, becoming well-known for her positive energy and friendly demeanour. Her consistent efforts to create a welcoming environment for passengers have now earned her recognition at the highest level of her profession.
Dr. Deborah Hume, Head of Translink, praised all finalists as representing “some of the finest bus drivers in Queensland,” noting that their recognition “is testament to the exceptional service and dedication provided to their passengers and community.”
The awards, determined by public vote after narrowing the extensive nomination pool to nine finalists across three categories, also honoured Bus Queensland drivers Sam Davison as Regional Bus Driver of the Year and Allan Humphrey as School Bus Driver of the Year, both from Toowoomba.
For Leaupepe, who expressed being “overwhelmed” by the honour, the recognition caps an impressive career of service to the Redcliffe community. She encouraged others to consider driving buses, calling it “a beautiful job.”
Published 14-April-2025
