Goldenfields Water competes in the Rural Management Challenge
Published on 28 October 2024
Goldenfields Water is proud to announce its participation in the 2024 Rural Management Challenge, an annual event organised by Local Government (LG) Professionals NSW.
The challenge provides a unique opportunity for local government teams to sharpen their skills, broaden their perspectives, and engage in dynamic problem-solving activities that mirror the demands of real-world governance.
Heat one was held in Temora over two days on Wednesday the 23rd and Thursday the 24th of October, with Goldenfields Water competing against teams from Temora Shire Council, Albury City Council and Federation Council.
The four elected employees of Goldenfields Water who participated in the event, combined with vastly different skillsets and experiences; however, sharing a strong commitment to innovation and excellence, eager to take on the challenge.
Operation Manager at Goldenfields Water, Mr. Alex Dahlenburg, performed as the team mentor.
"Our goal was simple – to win and have fun doing it," said Mr. Dahlenburg. "But beyond that, our team participants were excited to challenge their way of thinking, expand their knowledge, and gain a holistic understanding of how local government operates. Our expectation was to come out of this experience not only as better public officers but also as a more connected and skilled team."
The team networked with other professionals, gaining insights into the broader world of local government while enhancing their own practices and approaches.
Having entered the challenge in previous years, feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, finding on each occasion, that it offered numerous professional development opportunities, including;
Raising Awareness and Knowledge: The team gained a deeper understanding of the complexities of local government, especially in rural and regional contexts.
Cross-Departmental Team Building: Collaboration across departments was a key part of the challenge, providing an avenue for team members to hone their teamwork and leadership skills.
Broadening Management Skillsets: The challenge simulates the realities of day-to-day operations in local government, giving participants the chance to apply policies and procedures in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Learning and Networking: With participation from peers across the state, the team was able to learn from others and forge connections with like-minded professionals in the sector.
Goldenfields Water’s General Manager, Mr. Aaron Drenovski said of the event, “our team was enthusiastic about the challenge, focusing on representing our communities with pride. Our involvement in the challenge demonstrates our organisations commitment to employee professional development through a collaborative networking approach in accordance with our core values.”
Mr. Drenovski continued, “It ensures our employees and future leaders grow with the organisation, as we build greater trust both internally and with our external stakeholders. Achieved through professionally enhancing our communication, engagement, conflict resolution and problem-solving skills.”
Results from all heats of the 2024 Rural Management Challenge will be announced in December 2024, with the challenge culminating in a winner being announced at the conclusion of the final to be held in Sydney on the 26th and 27th of February 2025.
(Image) Pictured left to right: Erin Hemphill, Sonya Kovacevic, Alex Dahlenburg, Adam Ward, and Chris Durman.