Meet Our Network Members

<< First < Prev 1 2 Next > Last >>

Women's Network Member Profile - Sally Bignell

21 Mar 2023 3:23 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

We recently spoke with Sally Bignell from The Barossa Council about her role as an Administration and Technical Support Officer – Infrastructure & Environmental Services.

What’s your role and what does it entail?

I support senior staff within our different works teams who oversee maintenance, open space, fleet & stores, our depots and other areas. I enjoy having variety in my role, where extreme weather conditions can change the day in a second. When it comes to flooding and fallen trees blocking roads, it is all-hands on deck!

My responsibilities include receiving, assigning, and completing customer requests through our Pathway system, as well as providing customer service both over the phone and in-person. I follow up with utilities companies regarding works they’re doing on our roads, order fuel and supplies for the depots, and assist with finance. The guys always introduce me as the depot manager and say it does not run without me; very flattering, but so not true. We have awesome staff at the depot and a very supportive manager, and it is definitely a team effort!

What do you enjoy most about working in local government?

Few industries combine so many disciplines into one organisation, all working towards the same end goal. You have more to offer than just your qualifications. You speak a local community language and build local networks with people you may not have otherwise met. The work is meaningful because you’re often able to see the results where you make the lives of your neighbours better.

What important lessons have you learnt over the years?

To create structure in my life that enables me to manage my time better and get things done. Facing the fears that can hold me back from achieving and trying new things. Treating other people as I want to be treated. This can change your whole outlook on life; you will enjoy it more and have less stress which is a lesson worth learning at any age.

What advice would you give someone starting out in your role?

My role has grown and changed so much over the almost 17 years I have been here. I am looking forward to new changes which will see me get out of the office more. It is important to learn about the work environment and make a good first impression. Participate in meetings (there are a lot of them) take notes, and offer to help others. Practice good time management, don’t be afraid to ask for help and schedule time for skill development.

What do you like to do outside of work?

I love to read and spend time with my family and friends. I have three married children and eight grandchildren aged between 10-21. All of them play sports so I spend a lot of time watching them which I enjoy so much. During football and netball season my Saturdays start at 8:30am and finish at 4pm watching games. I walk for fitness in the mornings before work, which makes for a good start to my day. I also enjoy doing the annual stadium stomp at Adelaide Oval; I have completed three, did my first at age 59, and plan on doing it again this year. It really gives me a great sense of achievement!

Women's Network Member Profile - June Austin

21 Oct 2022 3:17 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

We recently caught up with June Austin, General Manager - Business and Finance at Light Regional Council and asked her about her experiences with the Women's Network and Committee.

What’s your role and what does it entail?

In my current role as General Manager, Business and Finance, I oversee the finance, information services and organisational development functions at Light Regional Council. Working with multifaced specialist teams we deliver the core corporate functions across council, to ensure legislative compliance, management, employee and community support and sound financial management. One of the most significant projects for Business and Finance this year is the upgrade of council’s Business Enterprise system.

How did you find out about the Women’s Network Committee?

As a member of LG Professionals SA I receive regular emails from the Women’s Network Committee promoting upcoming events such as the annual Women’s Network Conference, Women’s Network forums and annual call for nominations to become a Committee member.

How long have you been in the Women’s Network and what’s your favourite part about the Network?

I attended my first Women’s Network event over 10 years ago - it was the Women’s Network Conference in 2009. My favourite part about this network is having the opportunity to meet other women from diverse fields, backgrounds and stages in their career development. I have also been inspired and encouraged by the guest speakers, who at times, have overcome significant challenges and gone on to achieve fantastic outcomes.

What have you gained/learned as a result of being on the committee?

As a member of the Women’s Network Committee I have had the opportunity to provide input into the development and composition of the annual conference and quarterly forums held in 2022. I value the collaborative approach of the committee meetings and have enjoyed listening to the ideas being generated for future committee member’s to take carriage of.

What are you most looking forward to about the upcoming Women’s Network Conference ‘Unlock YOU’?

So many interesting speakers with subjects aimed at helping us deal with some of our inner negative thoughts and self doubts. I’m sure I will take away strategies from the day that will help me strengthen my approach to dealing with matters both personally and professionally.

The call for nominations for the Committee are currently open – what advice would you give to something considering putting their name forward?

I strongly encourage anyone who has an interest in contributing to the development of opportunities that benefit women in the local government sector. Committee membership provides the opportunity to engage with like minded people, helps you to develop leadership skills and broaden your professional networks.