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!