A New South Wales judge has sharply criticised Linq Buslines and two of its directors after a text message exchange referring to bus drivers as “steering wheel attendants” surfaced during sentencing proceedings a remark Judge Kirralee Perry said was “flippant at best” and “wholly inappropriate” for people responsible for heavy vehicles.
The case centred on seven drivers who sped on 12 occasions, with directors Mr Fogg and Mr Royle facing maximum fines of $59,000 each for overspeeding‑related offences.
Judge Perry said the company and its leadership “fell short in ensuring they complied with their duty,” ultimately fining both men $12,000 each. She rejected their request to avoid recorded convictions, noting the seriousness of the breaches even though the offending sat at the “lower end” of the range.
In Gosford Local Court, Judge Perry imposed a total of $650,000 in fines on Linq Buslines, acknowledging that “no amount would take away the pain” felt by victims’ families. Prosecutor Georgia Lewer argued the company had recruited a driver who placed the community at risk a point the judge agreed with.
The text exchange describing drivers as mere “steering wheel attendants” drew particular ire, with Judge Perry saying such language was unacceptable in any context, let alone when assessing someone entrusted with passenger safety.
The ruling adds to mounting scrutiny over bus operator compliance and safety standards, reinforcing the court’s message that accountability must extend from drivers to directors.
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