It’s official – the “Polar Express” from Busways Penrith Depot is the best Christmas Bus in Sydney, standing out from 20 decorated entries from operators across Greater Sydney at Transport for NSW 2025 Christmas Bus Judging competition.

Chief judges Ved (9) and his brother Kabir (6) from Wesley Mission - joined by Howard Collins, Co-ordinator General at Transport for NSW - faced the challenge of choosing a winner from an impressive line-up. But with golden tickets in hand, the Polar Express quickly became their standout.

The winning design was created by Jimmy Chen and Georgette Golding and the Penrith team, whose handmade touches and attention to detail brought the theme to life. Busways driver Georgia Zamagias proudly took the Polar Express across the Harbour Bridge as part of the Christmas convoy, creating a memorable moment for onlookers and spreading festive joy across the city.

Busways entered three other buses, from Willoughby, Blacktown, and Ryde, each showcasing the creativity and enthusiasm of these depot teams as did all the other operators taking part – well done to all. The Christmas bus competition continues to be a much-loved Sydney tradition, brightening commutes and highlighting the spirit that operators bring to their communities during the festive season.

We extend our thanks to all depots for their support, and to the drivers who volunteered their time to decorate and prepare their Christmas buses, helping make this year’s celebration a success.

Congratulations to all the entrants – and all our teams who have decorated over 30 buses across NSW – a long-standing tradition that brings the festive spirit to our passengers’ daily commute.

Our NSW Christmas buses are raising funds for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Westmead Children’s Hospital - simply scan the onboard QR code to donate, with Busways dollar-matching every contribution.

NSW passengers can track our festive buses by looking for Christmas icons on the TripView and Opal Travel apps.