Why I joined BMT
I joined BMT at the start of 2025, drawn in by the opportunity to work across both fresh and marine water environments in the Asia-Pacific region. A lot of my previous work focused on inland, freshwater systems, so the chance to explore how the two interact along the coast - and to work on environmental consulting and infrastructure developments, that span multiple sectors - really stood out.
What sealed the deal was BMT’s focus on water and the depth of technical talent here - people doing everything from groundwater and marine ecology to geomorphology and dredging. It’s a rare mix, and it creates an environment where you’re constantly learning.
I’d say to anyone who loves working with water: this is the place to be.
How my role has grown
My journey into hydrogeology started in the field. I worked as a driller installing groundwater bores for contaminated land projects and quickly realised I was far more interested in the groundwater than the contamination aspects. Over time, I moved from drilling to supervising bore installations, then onto deeper, large-scale water production bores and water supply projects for mining and town supply.
Now, I provide technical leadership in groundwater solutions and manage a growing team. I was BMT’s first hydrogeologist in the region and recently hired a second. The plan is to expand our capability across APAC, servicing customers in mining, infrastructure, defence, and water security.
“What I love is that I’ve been trusted from day one. Whether it’s leading bids, building out our offer, or shaping the type of work we go after, there’s a huge amount of autonomy. If something makes sense, I’ve got backing to go for it.”
Why groundwater matters
Groundwater is often overlooked, until there’s a problem. Whether it’s a tunnel flooding mid-construction, a mine running dry, or a community at risk, hydrogeologists often get the call when time is tight and stakes are high.
The challenge is that groundwater is usually out of sight out of mind. We’re expected to make confident, cost-effective recommendations for groundwater management with very limited data. It’s complex, uncertain work, but that’s what makes it interesting. Solving complex problems with sparse information is something I genuinely enjoy.
A standout project
One project that stands out is our support for the climate resilience team helping Kiribati - a small island nation in the Pacific - secure a climate-proof water source. With limited freshwater and increasing pressure from development and climate change the islands community have a closing window to secure their water. If a pragmatic solution can be found it would put the quality of life and indeed the viability of living on the islands at risk for over 130,000 people.
My role is just one part of the wider effort, but it’s rewarding to contribute to something with such real-world impact. It’s projects like this that remind you why we do what we do.
What makes BMT different
BMT’s flexible approach means I’ve been able to hire the best people, regardless of whether they sit in my office. It’s also given me the space to be present for my family and to support the community. I volunteer at Bondi Surf Club, teaching junior lifesavers, and volunteer at my local State Emergency Service (SES) unit.
That kind of trust and flexibility, both professionally and personally, makes a big difference.
Since joining BMT, I’ve had the opportunity to attend industry conferences, lead new market development in groundwater services, and give more presentations (internal and external) than I had in the past five years combined.
There’s a real emphasis on quality and collaboration here, and a team culture that’s open, technical, and helpful. I’ve been welcomed as my full, authentic self - dog and all (shout out to Biscuits the sheep-a-doodle, who’s four times the size we were promised).
