The Victorian taxi industry lost a member of our community in late April. A tragic accident ended the life of Stan Gliszczynski, who spent so much of his life working in the taxi industry. He contributed considerably to the Victorian Taxi Association (VTA) as an enthusiastic member and in his capacity as a VTA Councilor.

Stan was first accredited to drive taxis in 1975. It was a job he took to supplement his scholarship income while he was studying a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce at the University of Melbourne. He trained with Geelong Radio Cabs and kept his DC active since that time. He worked at the Australian Taxation Office and taught at Yarram Secondary College. He interspersed driving at Geelong Radio Cabs and Yarram Taxi Service with his other roles until in 2001, when he moved to Portland where he became a licence-holder, operator and driver with Taxis of Portland.

Stan was a kind man who enjoyed driving a cab. He told us that there was something appealing in providing a service and getting paid for it.  The hours were flexible which suited his other commitments over the years, particularly working with the local community. He thought that the most interesting changes he observed in the taxi industry during his forty years was the availability and implementation of technology.

In an interview the VTA conducted with Stan in 2014, we asked him what it was that he found the most unique and interesting about taxis. In his own words:

“It is a very personal one on one job. You are responsible for the safety and comfort of the client. Unpleasant and trying experiences at various times are the gamut one has to face in any dealings with the public. I enjoy the largely entrepreneurial nature. The great pleasure is in getting it right and the learning experience.

There is the challenge of taking the direct personal responsibility for the safety and convenience and comfort of the passenger and receiving the bouquets for a job well done. I learnt a lot about all sorts of things from a wide range of passengers.  There was always something new and usually interesting. It really gets you out of your shell if you have one. Most passengers like a talkative, chatty taxi driver, but one who does not verbally bash them about sensitive topics.”

Stan contributed a great deal to the taxi industry over many years. He had a quirky sense of humour and will be missed by many people, including the staff at the VTA.