Thank you for visiting with the Geodata KODA Australia team earlier this year. We immediately  sensed your honest, genuine and authentic personality. You quickly captivated our team and  made us feel like you were a friend that had returned. It doesn’t take long to realise that you  weren’t just turning up to tell a story, but also support us(!) while we hear your impactful message  and come to grips with it. 

You took us on quite the journey. Since your visit I have thought about it every day. 

I am so impressed with your strength to talk openly about the grief at the loss of two family  members. What I found important is that you explained how such tragedies can cause deep,  long-term impacts in many areas: financial problems, legal battles, mental-health issues,  relationship challenges, and parenting responsibilities. I appreciate your balanced and genuine  discussion of topics that are usually taboo. All cards were laid out on the table, no matter how  difficult they are to talk about. 

I’m certain that your message, though forged in mining and tunnelling, is transferable to all other  construction and related disciplines, and anywhere where high-risk work is conducted.

Furthermore, you describe how decisions made years before a particular event can have  repercussions in the future. While not necessarily working on site, people involved in design,  project management and commercial teams must carry your message with them. 

Crucially, your Why Safety Matters message goes deeper than the normalised safety message we receive every day. Much of what we apply is focused on the What, When and How, but not Why. Why Safety Matters forces people to step back and question their behaviours and habits.  

As a manager, I’ve taken away a simple message: “the work we do can get us killed and the  consequences are huge. They impact the ones we love and cherish, and they last a lifetime.” 

Thank you for your strength and vision and the difference you are making to people and the  industry we love. Below, you’ll find some feedback from every employee that attended. You  made an impact; it’s quite clear to see that.