Meet Kate Bardy our North East Water Champion
As a world traveller with a love for all things adventure, Kate Bardy lived and worked overseas and has now returned to her hometown of Wodonga working at North East Water as their Manager Operations, Projects and Maintenance. Kate is also IWN’s North East Water Champion.
LET’S START WITH THE PERSONAL - TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF
After many years living overseas, I returned to my hometown of Wodonga where I am now working for North East Water. Outside of work I have a love for the mountains and all things adventure. I run ultramarathons, love remote hiking, mountain biking and snowboarding. I also play hockey and run around after my two young children, Jack who is 7 and Stevie who is 3.
WHAT’S YOUR CURRENT WATER CORPORATION ROLE?
My current role at North East Water is Manager Operations Projects and Maintenance. I have been in this role for 18 months.
WHAT’S YOUR PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND?
I have worked in many varied roles but been with North East Water now for 11 years. I have worked across customer service, procurement, contract management, asset management and project management functions of the business.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE WHAT YOU DO EACH DAY (BUT TO YOUR GRANDMA)?
I lead a team of maintenance planners, mechanical fitters and project managers to manage the maintenance, repair, replacement and upgrade of North East Waters extensive asset portfolio.
WHY DID YOU JOIN IWN?
I joined IWN almost 12 months ago. I joined to broaden my professional network, to spotlight innovation and help make it part of BAU at North East Water, and for the leadership mentoring opportunity.
WHAT DO YOU WANT TO ACHIEVE WITH IWN?
For the industry?
I would like to continue to support the collaborative approach that IWN brings to ensure that innovation benefits the whole industry.
For yourself?
I would like to build a greater network of likeminded people so that I can learn and grow from their experiences and knowledge. I would also like to bring that knowledge back to my own organisation.
WHAT GETS YOU OUT OF BED IN THE MORNING?
My family and the commitments I have made personally and professionally. Work is both a motivator and a means for me to support my family and enjoy the things that I love doing when I am not at work.
Kate running at Mount Feathertop in North East Water region