STAR Community Services driver Bob Curry, 75, of Thorneside, retires after 18 years with the organisation

75-year-old Bob Curry transported the aged, frail and those with disabilities to medical appointments, social outings and shopping trips during his tenure.

Mr Curry, who spent 30 years at a shipping company prior to becoming a STAR volunteer driver in 2001, said supporting his fellow community members had been the most rewarding experience of his life.

"Without community transport, many vulnerable people in our community would struggle," he said.

"When one loses their driving license due to medical or other reasons, they become extremely socially isolated.

"It is an essential service to keep people engaged and active."

Mr Curry said he realised the importance of a community transport service after driving an elderly passenger home from a medical appointment in the city.

"As we started driving back to Cleveland, a terrible storm hit the city," he said.

"We crawled through the worst traffic conditions I have ever experienced.

"Several hours later we got to his home in the Redlands. It was still raining heavily. I could see that the path to his front door was very uneven.

"I got out of the car, helped him out, and we slowly made our way to his front door in pouring rain.

"He fumbled in his pocket for his key and we eventually got inside. I helped him sit down and settle before I left.

STAR Community Services had four vehicles and three office staff at the start of Mr Curry's tenure.

They now own 60 vehicles and have enlisted the help of 180 volunteers.

Mr Curry said his volunteer driving experience had made him more appreciative of his local community.

"I encourage everyone to try volunteering," he said.

"We are all cogs in the same wheel, supporting each other and keeping the community moving."