Tell us a little about your story, how did you get to where you are today?

I originally studied Civil and Environmental Engineering at UTS and was employed as a trainee engineer working in the quarry side of a construction company. Once I graduated, I completed my above ground mine certificate, which led me to managing a quarry on the Central Coast of NSW.

So how did you go from quarry to law firm?

While managing the quarry, I became interested in the planning approvals side of things. I also got sick of lawyers always telling me what to do – so I decided to go ahead and become one myself! I started studying law and worked part time in the Department of Mineral Resources as a policy officer while I finished my studies. 

And how did you come to MinterEllison?

I applied for a summer clerkship at MinterEllison – I must have been the oldest summer clerk ever. After my clerkship, I went back to the Department, finished my studies and, although I was offered a grad role with the firm, I stayed with the Department as a solicitor. Then the Department relocated to rural NSW. I was still in contact with one of the MinterEllison partners I'd worked with during my clerkship and he offered me a full time job.

Has the breath of your experienced improved your practice of law?

Absolutely – I love my role as it combines my engineering, government, and legal experience into one. I think there's a real value in having industry experience and in having experience outside of law. It helps you understand different perspectives and tailor your advice to find the best solutions.