This month we spoke with Sophie Rawson, Team Leader Environment and Sustainability, City of Victor Harbor, about her role, what an average workday looks like for her, her participation on the Field Workforce panel at the upcoming LG Professionals SA Annual State Conference, and how you'll usually find her surfing at the beautiful Victor beaches on the weekend.

What is your role and how long have you been in local government?

I am currently acting as the Team Leader Environment and Sustainability, and my substantive role is Municipal Employee – Open Space Biodiversity and Conservation. I have been working in local government for approximately 2.5 years.

What’s an average workday look like for you?

No two days are ever the same in this role, which is part of what makes it so rewarding. I like to start the day by checking in with the team, and from there I might focus on daily operational tasks, including climate, sustainability, and conservation initiatives, or progress work on ongoing capital projects.

You’re joining us at our LG Professionals SA Annual State Conference Local Government Panel – Our Field Workforce. What are you hoping attendees take away from the panel?

I hope attendees walk away with a deeper appreciation for the diverse work undertaken by field staff, as well as a stronger understanding of the many career pathways and development opportunities available within the field workforce.

What do you do with yourself in your spare time?

In my spare time, you’ll usually find me at the beach either surfing, swimming, or catching the sunrise before work. When it’s not beach weather, I’ll often grab my binoculars and go birdwatching along one of the local rivers.