Albury Uber driver John Kirby recognised by ride-share giant as Local Legend

John Kirby, who is one of the city's four Uber drivers, has been named a "local legend" for the excellent service he has provided since he started driving for the company in August.

He has received more than 200 five-star ratings from riders.

Mr Kirby, who lost work as a casual teacher when the COVID-19 pandemic took hold, said he had enjoyed the experience, but admitted Uber still went largely unnoticed on the Border.

"Nearly every second passenger has said they didn't realise Uber was here in Albury," Mr Kirby said.

"The other thing that's frustrating is the people who know it is here have said it's a bit hit-and-miss getting one because there's so few of us.

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"I wish more people would take it up and there would be more consistency which would make it better for everyone.

"I seem to be the only one to work pretty regularly."

Mr Kirby said he had been able to find a good work-life balance, with his casual employment in the public service through the week complemented by Uber on the weekends.

"I saw Uber was coming to Albury and I started the ball rolling in about July and I got started in August," he said.

"It's pretty quiet during the day on weekdays, but Friday and Saturday nights have been pretty good. It's been worthwhile.

"Last Saturday I started at about half past five (in the afternoon) and finished about a quarter to two (in the morning)."

Mr Kirby said he was not worried about late-night calls and had asked those in need of a ride to and from Christmas functions to consider Uber as an option.

"Saturday nights I'm usually picking up a fair few people who definitely shouldn't be on the road and have had plenty to drink," he said.

"I haven't had any major incidents so far, just a lot of people who have had too much to drink and have wanted to go through 'Maccas' (McDonald's) on the way home."

Uber is yet to be introduced in Wodonga.