The VTA's first metro taxi driver dinner for 2014 was a great success. Held at Mr Burger, opposite the Queen Victoria Market, over 70 drivers joined the VTA staff for a meal and a chat on Thursday 22 May.

Despite being a rainy night, many drivers dropped in for a meal during their shift. It was a great opportunity for the VTA to catch up with drivers and discuss issues - taxi related and otherwise! Some of the matters the drivers were keen to talk about included the new fare structure, the upcoming 55/45 fare box split, the impact on set pay-ins and the release of new licences.

Ongoing issues at Melbourne Airport and other operational queries were also discussed. The VTA was keen to hold an event in the evening to engage with night drivers, understanding that they face different issues to day drivers. The VTA were pleased to see a number of familiar faces and to meet many new faces.

The work drivers carry out, every night, not only in the city, but across the State is vital, yet often overlooked. The VTA would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge them and thank them for the work they do. The last few years of the inquiry have increased the profile of taxis in the media, but rarely does the discussion focus on what drivers face, every night during their shift. Most of the time they are transporting decent, ordinary people. However, as recently been exposed in the media, sometimes they are forced to deal with violent, drunk and aggressive passengers. This does not make for a pleasant workplace, but they continue to provide this important service.

The VTA thanks all driver who attended and those who continue to work at night.