A V/LINE conductor snatched a Geelong train passenger’s ticket and told him to “get a job” after he forgot his concession card, according to a witness.
University student Francisco Rodriguez said he filed official complaints with V/Line and Public Transport Victoria (PTV) after witnessing the “appalling” behaviour last week.
“The conductor was extremely arrogant and seemed to think he was superior to anyone with a concession.”
Mr Rodriguez said the male conductor was checking for tickets when he found that the passenger had a ticket but no concession card.
“I had seen this guy before, so I thought they would just let it slip because he usually has a concession card, but the conductor didn’t at all.”
Mr Rodriguez said the passenger asked the conductor’s name after handing over his ticket.
“The conductor said ‘None of your f***ing business. (The passenger) told him ‘I need your name because I’m going to report you. I forgot my concession card and it’s not fair for you to take my ticket’.
“The conductor then told him to ‘Get a job’. I was extremely appalled and I could see people sitting close to me were as well.
“I could not believe someone was being treated like that.”
V/Line spokesman James Kelly said the company would investigate and respond to the complaint.
“Complaints of any nature against staff are taken seriously – their role is to be of help to customers and ensure everybody’s safety in running the train,” Mr Kelly said.