Over the last few months the NSW YWP Committee hosted a lively Retro Disco-themed cocktail night, celebrated both farewells and new committee members, and took part in the AWA NSW State Conference, all while planning exciting future events to foster industry connections and support young water professionals in 2024-25.
In June, the NSW YWP Committee hosted its second ever annual cocktail night, thanks to our sponsor BMD, and it went off without a hitch. The Retro Disco theme saw colour, sequins and some of the best dressed strutting their stuff in an impromptu fashion parade. The cocktails on arrival had us arguing over whether pineapple or strawberry was the superior choice, while some networking bingo had us desperately trying to meet as many people as possible to find anyone to help with question topics, from skiers to French speakers. It was great to see water professionals both young and not so young come together, have a good time, make new industry connections and discuss industry challenges in a relaxed setting.
With the start of a new committee year in July, the NSW YWP Committee sadly had to say goodbye to some dedicated committee members, but this made way for some new faces that bring new energy to the team. There are new members from all corners of the industry, including students, economists, engineers, scientists, and everything in between. We have been quietly planning some great events for YWPs in the next year including our careers nights, technical tours and of course our next cocktail night, as well as considering how we can support the mentoring program now it has gone national. Watch this space, 2024-25 is shaping up to be a big year for the NSW YWP Committee.
Finally, it was great to see so many impressive YWPs presenting at the AWA NSW State Conference. An informal YWP breakfast on the Wednesday morning of the conference allowed YWPs across the state, who only usually see each other through a screen, come together to discuss the challenges YWPs will be facing throughout their careers. The comradery didn't end at breakfast though, with YWPs supporting each other throughout all the presentations and making the voice of young people in the water industry known.
by Danika Smith
