Programmed Work and Smile Fridays

Field trip fun with 'Work and Smile Site Visits'

Written by Communications | 28 November 2024 10:00:00 PM

This Friday, we share an awesome story and initiative by our Group Procurement team inspired by our Work and Smile vision! 

Rawan Qasem, Senior Procurement Specialist, submitted the following fantastic write up, so we'll let it speak for itself below.

As the weather begins to warm, we are excited to introduce Group Procurement's “Work and Smile Site Visits” initiative!

Recently, Debbie (Fleet), Charlene (VOB), and I had the pleasure of visiting the Melbourne Water team at the Western Water Treatment Plant.

As a team, we often find ourselves entrenched in our office routines, thriving in our familiar environment. However, stepping out from behind our desks and immersing ourselves in the field offers invaluable insights into our business and helps us connect with our diverse workforce. This visit was a perfect example of that philosophy in action.


Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed by the Operations team, who graciously organised a site tour of the facility. Trent and Alex guided us through the treatment plant, explaining the intricate processes involved in cleaning wastewater. It was fascinating to learn that the entire site requires a substantial 5 to 6 hours to drive around, showcasing the extensive effort that take place to ensure the facilities are maintained.

During our 90-minute tour, we discovered that a portion of the land is designated as conservation land, home to various species of birds, including a unique parrot that only frequents WTP. This was a delightful fun fact, and we were fortunate enough to see several bird watches enjoying the conservation area!

We also gained an insightful overview of what a typical day looks like for the operational team. Their dedication and camaraderie were evident, particularly when Hilton surprised everyone by bringing in cake to celebrate Winchele's birthday. This small gesture exemplified the positive culture at the site and the strong bonds that the team has built.

What a great initiative and story! We're looking forward to hearing all about the team's future Work and Smile Site Visits.

If you have a story to share that demonstrates the reasons we Work and Smile, you can submit your story by clicking below. And don't be shy! Every accomplishment, big or small, matters.