Meet our stakeholder engagement teams
Our stakeholder teams are your link to understanding our three southern NSW projects. Meet the locally based team supporting our Albury to Illabo project.
December 10, 2020
Meet Jo Hewitt and Casey Bootsma
Many have likely met the Albury to Illabo stakeholder engagement duo, Jo Hewitt and Casey Bootsma. Both are based in Albury, but can be seen up and down the alignment working with interested agencies, community groups, the local business sector, as well as individuals. They are the community’s link to understanding the work we are doing, providing feedback on our plans and progress, and gaining insight into how Inland Rail will enhance the Riverina.
Meet Jo Hewitt and Casey Bootsma
Jo, tell us a bit about your professional background.
I have specialised in economic development, marketing and project management. I’ve spent the last 10 years in local government with a focus on investment attraction and the economic wellbeing of the thriving regional city of Albury.
Why did you decide to join Inland Rail?
Being part of one of Australia’s largest infrastructure projects was very appealing, but even more so was the prospect of assisting the Murray Riverina region capitalise on the opportunities presented by Inland Rail.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of working on this project?
The people I meet, the situations I encounter and the stories I hear are inspiring and challenging and bring the human element to what is essentially a significant engineering project. My job is to understand, to represent and to educate communities about the project and how we might find common value.
What can the community expect to see in coming months?
The Albury to Illabo project is really ramping up. Early next year we’ll be out and about in the community with information about the early reference design.
What do you like doing in your time off?
Interior design is my side hustle and I’m in the midst of a house reno. I’m passionate about spending time with my family and friends and indulging in all that North East Victoria and southern NSW have to offer in terms of food, wine and natural beauty.
Casey, tell us a bit about your professional background.
My background is in Communications with a focus on business development, skilled migration, governance, federal government programs and funding in regional Australia.
Why did you decide to join Inland Rail?
The opportunity to work on a project of this scale, complexity and importance while also having the ability to work regionally was a great combination for me.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of working on this project?
The opportunity to work with a large array of field experts, as well as seeing the grassroots effect of supporting community-based organisations and making a difference through our sponsorships and donation program.
What do you like doing in your time off?
I’m very active and sport has always been a big part of my life. The summer tennis competition has just started, so I’m hitting whenever I get the chance. Otherwise, you’ll find me cooking, renovating, socialising with friends, or outside exploring southern NSW and North East Victoria.
Photo caption: Albury to Illabo stakeholder engagement team’s Casey Bootsma and Jo Hewitt (L-R).
