‘Extraordinary’ driver honoured

For taxi driver Doug Slater, his passengers are his friends — a philosophy which has won him the title of Tourism Taxi Driver of the Year.

The only winning regional regional driver at the awards, Mr Slater’s outstanding customer service was recognised at the recent Golden Wheel Awards during WA Cabbie Day celebrations at Burswood Entertainment Complex.

One of the drivers selected by the public for Tourism WA’s Extraordinary Taxi Ride promotion earlier this year, Mr Slater said he was surprised and honoured to receive the award.

‘‘I was aware of the fact that the Taxi Council won the competition, but I certainly didn’t envisage I’d be fortunate enough to be successful and selected — there’s a lot of taxi drivers in Western Australia,’’ Mr Slater said.

A former livestock agent, the taxi driver of 14 years said a lot of people were apprehensive about the occupation but said it was a more interesting job than some would have thought.

‘‘My passion is the passengers; while a lot of people are a bit apprehensive about taxi driving, I’ve found it just the opposite — I’ve met some fantastic people,’’ Mr Slater said.

‘‘There were some tourists that came out from England and we became quite friendly, and I’m actually going over to see them.’’

Chief executive officer of the Taxi Council of Western Australia Olwyn Williams said Mr Slater set a level of service which other drivers should strive to emulate.

‘‘Quite often the taxi industry is defined by bad stories — the awards are about high lighting the excellent service offered,’’ she said.

‘‘We know Doug is an extraordinary driver and brings great experience with him.’’