Dear editor,
Earlier this year my two daughters and granddaughter were visiting the Dandenongs on a nostalgic trip to see where their family lived in the 1920s – 1960s. As I’ve been living in Perth for many years, they thought I’d be interested to read a copy of ‘The Star Mail’. By good fortune it happened to be the 23 January 2024 edition with your article ‘Gembrook Stalwart Norm recognised’. I immediately identified with Norm who I had not seen for over 50 years.
The Kollosche family led by May and Jack ran US Motors for many years. Based in Belgrave but routes covered the Dandenongs, including Gembrook of course. Norm, now 90, was a highly respected staff person and US Bus Lines driver for some 52 years – an amazing length of time.
I contacted Norm and we had a great chat catching up. Norm has generously gifted our family his personal copy of a well compiled book ‘History of US Motors including US Bus Lines 1921-1964’. Nicely collated by past employee the late Don Harrison, the book includes photography, articles and anecdotes. Don passed the book to colleague David Smart and upon David’s passing his daughter delivered it into the safe hands of Norm.
Many thanks to Norm, wife Shirley and sons Rodney and Greg for arranging safe delivery of the book.
Thanks also to Star Mail, for the wonderful article in January relating to Norm Smith.
John F Kollosche
Perth WA
