Perth is often referred to as the most isolated city in the world. My role as a surveyor brings me face-to-face with some of the most significant operations on the planet, including the world’s largest bulk export port. This along with over 15 other remote ports throughout fall within our domain.
I’m very fortunate to work within an experienced and diverse team. On any given day, you’ll find us engaged in naval new construction, conducting surveys locally, or travelling to remote ports. We also attend six offshore oil and gas facilities and over 80 tugboats classed with LR. Although our team is small, our combined expertise and teamwork ensure that everything runs smoothly.
Traveling on the job
Travel is just part of our job description. What would usually be straightforward surveys become more challenging when a two-hour flight is needed just to reach the port. You might think that turning up to the airport in a bright orange boiler suit would be unusual, but such is the mining industry here in Perth, where high-vis clothing is the norm; you’d stand out if you weren’t in it.
Stamping certificates
Stamping ship certificates for the first time felt like a daunting task, especially since it can’t be completed within your training period. I have been fortunate to work with a team that is incredibly willing to share their knowledge throughout my training. Now, stamping certificates confirming ships are safe has become part of the routine and a hugely satisfying part of my job.
How has your role developed at LR?
I joined as a graduate surveyor on the Graduate Training Scheme at the beginning of 2022, having just completed a Bachelor of Engineering (Naval Architecture) with honours from the Australian Maritime College. Initially, the focus was hands-on training with the Perth team across their diverse range of surveys. Two and a half years in, with nearly a year spent in Singapore, I can take on more of the workload as we share the surveys.
How has LR supported you throughout your journey?
My training has been greatly enriched by the diverse teams at LR. The experiences I've had with LR in Singapore, particularly the opportunity to integrate with their shipyard teams, have been pivotal in my professional development. This unique experience, not commonly found in Australia, has significantly accelerated my growth, as evidenced by the increasingly diverse surveys I’m entrusted with.
Biggest challenges
As a young surveyor I’m often asked my age during surveys. It’s been one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced. Ultimately, through my interactions, people recognise my capabilities, and we can begin working together, though it can create a challenging dynamic at first. I’ve drawn on the experiences from LR training programmes, along with the guidance of my line manager and mentor, to develop strategies that help me navigate these situations.
Life outside LR
Sport is a huge part of Australian culture; I have fond memories of the backyard cricket games with my younger brothers. Growing up, I played cricket, soccer (football), tennis, rowing, sailing and rugby. However, it was sailing that I fell in love with. My passion for it is a large reason I chose to pursue this career. I spent every weekend sailing and competed in the national championships each summer. Perth is an excellent city for sailing, and I still spend my weekends on the water!