Testimonials

Andy Hunter- Project Manager, Rail (From UK)

My wife and I visited Australia about 3 years ago and immediately fell in love with the place and like many people returned home with the idea of returning one day to live. Also, like many people when we returned we did nothing about it – until 2 years later when I heard that Downer EDI Works were looking for people with experience in the rail industry to work in Melbourne. We jumped at the opportunity and have never looked back.

With the support of Downer EDI Works the process of moving to Australia, including the immigration process, was very quick and relatively easy.

Since my arrival here my new colleagues have been very supportive and have helped me and my family settle in - at work and home. Victoria is a great place to work and the people are very friendly and welcoming. We also seem to spend much more quality time together as a family as there is a definite emphasis on the outdoor lifestyle which can be beneficial to our son.

I would certainly recommend coming to Australia with Downer EDI Works – so stop thinking about it and do it!


Quintin Davenport – Pavement Services Manager, Tasmania (From South Africa)

I originally moved to Tasmania from South Africa at the end of 2000 and have been in Hobart since. Deciding on Australia as a destination was an easy one, as I had heard many reports about the lucky country and had wanted to move for many years. A position as a Quantity Surveyor became available in Hobart which I took up. After 4 years working as a Quantity Surveyor I applied for a position as Project Manager Construction with Downer EDI Works in Hobart. The move was made easier as I fitted into the easy going lifestyle of Tasmania with no problems.

My current role within Downer EDI Works is as Manager Pavement Services, Tasmania responsible for the asphalt plants, surfacing and profiling related works in the state.

I have found working for Downer EDI Works both rewarding and a challenge. The friendly and open work environment we have in Tassie brings the best out in our people. Tasmania is the prettiest state in Australia, I can not ask for more at this stage in my career.

George Davis- Engineering Manager, Rail (From UK-New Zealand-Australia)

I moved to Australia after briefly working for Downer EDI Works in New Zealand and becoming increasingly involved in the operations there. The idea of moving to such an exciting country was not one to be missed, so within a year of leaving the UK I worked in major cities within New Zealand and Australia.

The transition across the Tasman was eased by the friendly and helpful staff that I encountered in Downer EDI Works Melbourne office who efficiently dealt with any issues I had making my placement painless. This was further enhanced by the active social scene that seems to be common to Downer EDI Works offices.

Initial concerns regarding different engineering standards were an issue and a steep learning curve was involved to overcome this, but this was substantially eased with the support of senior members of the operational teams.

Living in Australia has also been an experience, there certainly exists a very positive attitude to all areas and the Australians clearly show that. I have easily become involved in the social activities in my area and the locals have been nothing but warm and welcoming.

On the whole I have thoroughly enjoyed working for Downer EDI Works and living in Australia has surpassed my expectations.