Staff Spotlight – Ben Harwood

We had the opportunity to speak with Ben Harwood, one of our SESO, who generously spared some time from his busy schedule to allow us to learn more about himself and his role at Corporate Protection Australia Fire & Rescue.

What is your professional background?

I have a broad range of skills and experience. My work includes hunting and culling animals like kangaroos, pigs, goats, foxes, dingoes, brumbies, cats, and camels in remote places. I’m also experienced in timber felling and exporting. On top of that, I’ve worked in various security roles, from personal protection and escort services to security at mines, shopping centers, and handling crowd control and surveillance. Plus, I’m a qualified chef.

Where are you working now?

I am currently working at Kogan Creek Power Station in Queensland as a Security and Emergency Services Officer (SESO)

What other Corporate Protection sites have you worked?

I am yet to work at any other Corporate Protection Sites.

What are your primary responsibilities?

In my role, I handle a variety of tasks aimed at keeping things safe and running smoothly. I provide customer service, first aid, and manage computer inductions along with access systems. I’m familiar with all the high-risk areas on site and the rescue equipment needed for each spot. My job involves lots of interaction with both clients and staff, managing who gets in and out of the site, and keeping an eye on things through CCTV. I also do patrols around the site, stay updated with ongoing training, and check rescue and first aid gear, as well as vehicles. Part of my duties includes conducting alcohol and drug tests and making sure all our safety processes and procedures are followed.

What do you find most challenging or fulfilling in your role?

The most fulfilling aspects are the camaraderie within the Emergency Response Team, which is great thanks to an exceptional team leader. I enjoy working closely with the client to ensure we achieve the best and safest outcomes for any task at hand. It’s rewarding to learn more efficient ways to handle rescue tasks from more experienced Emergency Services Officers. Keeping my rescue skills sharp through team training is crucial, and I’m always excited to learn about new technologies and how to operate new rescue devices. Every day, I strive to improve myself and my abilities.

What do  you find most challenging?

The most challenging aspects of my job include handling emergency situations where making the right decisions quickly is crucial. Mastering new induction and access systems can also be quite complex. Additionally, keeping up with the ever-changing site procedures as future energy projects are constructed and commissioned presents a constant challenge.

And what do you do in your spare time?

In my free time, I love heading out camping with my family and friends. It’s always great fun sitting around a fire pit and just hanging out. I’m also into exploring new places and trying out different experiences. When I’m home, you’ll find me watching movies and cozying up with my wife. I enjoy riding my motorcycle for a bit of thrill, and staying active with bushwalking, tree climbing, and abseiling. I also have a blast wrestling with my kids and playing with our dogs, all while trying to steer my kids towards being exceptional people.

_________________

What would your manager say?

Ben has been working with me for 2 years highly committed to working towards a better Team, Site, Skills Training and Working environment. Building on improving CPA connection to the client CS Energy.