Vicky’s bubbly personality, unique ability to lift anyone’s spirits no matter how down, and her eager willingness to assist in any way she can, all contribute to the effervescent character that is Vicky.

A taxi driver in Ulladulla for the past eight years, working for Brian and Jenny Wilkins, Vicky humbly accepted the runner-up award, worth more than $1,000 in cash and gas, from Minister of Transport David Campbell in the ballroom of Sydney’s Four-Seasons Hotel last Wednesday evening.

Vicky shared her huge high with her mother, amidst hundreds of guests and dignitaries including NSW Taxi Council chief executive officer Howard Harrison.

“I would like to thank Vicky for her great customer service,” Mr Harrison said.

“And for her contribution in assisting the NSW taxi industry gain the recognition it rightfully deserves,” he said.

Vicki said she had never considered taxi driving as a vocation until she moved here from Canberra, where she had worked in taxation and defence, and met Brian and Jenny Wilkins, who encouraged her to give it a go.

“That was eight years ago,” Vicky, one of Brian’s 15 Ulladulla taxi drivers, said.

“I love it!

“The people are fantastic – they are good humoured and always pleasant.

“I’ve never had a problem in eight years of driving.

“There is such freedom being out on the road.

“This is the best area, I just love Ulladulla – it’s a decent-sized country town with a massive community spirit,” she enthused.

Vicky jokes that anyone needing an ego boost should take on taxi driving.

“People are so grateful - I get told how good I am a dozen times a day!” she laughed.

“I like to help people with bags, groceries or prams, or whatever is needed – I just get off my bum and help out.

“They never stop thanking you!”

Vicky encounters people from all walks of life every week she is on the road.

“We have tourists, visiting dignitaries, overseas visitors, veterans affairs work – but mostly the bulk of my customers are the locals.”

Vicky thanked Brian and Jenny for their support, co-drivers and the many customers who placed their confidence in her and showed their appreciation for her by voting for her.

“And I would like to say a big thank you to my role model, co-driver Carol Dowton.

“She is the one who has shown me the ropes and offers constant support and friendship.

“She’s the Ace!”