What attracted you to the IDSS Convenor role?
Attending the IDSS is a 'must' for me. I find it one of the best ways to learn about developments in the industry and to hear what others are doing to solve some of the knotty problems we all face. It is also a great networking opportunity and provides a chance to catch up with people I haven't seen for a few years. I took on the Convenor role because I value the opportunity to shape the agenda for the IDSS. Being part of the committee is also a way of giving something back to the industry and to the profession. The role of Convenor comes with the added benefit that I can delegate all the work!
What makes you a great IDSS Convenor?
The jury is still out on this one. Perhaps after the IDSS you can check in with attendees and other organising committee members and see whether I did a good job.
What movie plot line outlines your experience as Convenor of the IDSS Organising Committee?
I'd like to say a James Bond movie - one where Judi Dench plays 'M'. However, our committee meetings were a bit light on intrigue, daring, and martinis. In fact, they bore no resemblance whatsoever to a James Bond movie.
Tell us about your role at WorkSafe?
I'm part of the Transformation team at WorkSafe. Over the past few years I've been part of shaping our strategy, preparing business cases and benefits plans, and helping ensure that we are set up for successful implementation. My current role is a change in direction from my first 25 years in this industry, which followed a more traditional actuarial path. These days I don't spend much time in spreadsheets, but the experience I gained modelling the financial dynamics of these schemes provides a foundation for everything I do.
What attracted you to the Injury and Disability industry
I started work in this industry in the early 1990’s. It was not a deliberate decision on my part, it came as part of the job I was doing. I soon developed a fascination with it, particularly the way that behaviour changes play out, and I have specialised in it ever since. Intellectually it ticks the boxes for me. More importantly though, I feel passionate about workplace safety and recovery from injury. It is for these reasons that I joined WorkSafe back in 2008.
If you could change one thing about the industry, what would it be?
That part of induction for everyone entering or advising in our industry is a viewing of the movie I, Daniel Blake.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
When I was younger, I was quite the boot-scooter. I was a junior Australian champion and was selected to represent Australia in the Oceania scoot-offs, which were a lead-in event to the world championships. But my mum wouldn't let me go.
What was the last lie you told?
See above.
What is your favourite app?
Spotify. I am currently listening to Broken Brass Ensemble as I write this!
Do you steal hotel toiletries?
Not at all.
What is your favourite quote?
It's a tie between:
- "Institutions will seek to preserve the problem for which they are the solution" - Clay Shirky; and
- "We are persuaded to spend money we don't have, on things we don't need, to create impressions that won't last, on people we don't care about " - from a TED Talk I listened to.
What was your first car?
A Datsun 180B - mustard colour with a black vinyl roof. It was a hand-me-down from my grandmother. I could tell what speed I was doing by which parts were rattling most.
What song would you like to hear played at the IDSS Gala Dinner?
It’s Raining Men by The Weather Girls. Not sure why it appeals to me (bit ironic really), but I love it - a real party-starter for me.
Have you ever used your actuarial powers for evil?
I don't do evil; I'd get a shocking post-evil attack of the guilts.
Share with us your favourite IDSS memory.
The memory is a bit hazy on some of conferences from my youth.
If budget wasn’t a limitation, where would you have liked the 2019 IDSS to be held and why
Into the Kimberley please. It is a part of the country I love.