Speakers

The Honourable Natalie Ward MLC

Natalie was elected to the Legislative Council of the Parliament of New South Wales in 2017 and is the Duty MLC for the Northern Metropolitan Province. 

She served as Minister for Metropolitan Roads and Women’s Safety in the Perrottet Government and Minister for Sport, Multiculturalism, Veterans and Seniors in the Berejiklian Government, as well as Parliamentary Secretary to the Attorney General.

Graduating with Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and Bachelor of Arts (BA Juris) degrees, Natalie practiced in commercial litigation and financial services, both in federal regulatory practice and in the private sector.

Natalie is a former Director of the Australian Rugby Foundation Board. She is married to David and they are busy raising two children.

Mike Cush

Mike started with Inland Rail in 2020 and is responsible for functions such as engagement and governance with State agencies and level crossings policy and application. With more than 40 years’ experience as a Civil Engineer, Mike has held executive and senior management roles in the transport and infrastructure sectors. He is recognised for his expertise in leading and managing the successful delivery of complex projects, providing extensive experience in infrastructure construction and maintenance involving both the private and public sectors. Before joining Inland Rail, Mike was the Project Director, Transport at Cardo, now Stantec. He has previously held roles as General Manager of Network NSW for Roads and Maritime Services, Executive roles with Downer and Hatch, and a long career with the NSW public service.

Councillor Sameer Pandey

First elected to City of Parramatta Council in 2017, Cr Sameer Pandey served as Lord Mayor from May to September 2023, and is the City’s first Lord Mayor from the Indian subcontinent.

A small business owner with a background in IT, Cr Pandey is passionate about ensuring Council delivers what community and local businesses need and positioning the City of Parramatta as a smart city.

Cr Pandey also served as Deputy Lord Mayor from January 2022 – May 2023 and represents the Parramatta Ward. 

Hayley Jarick

Hayley is living the dream. Her role as CEO and Company Secretary of the Supply Chain Sustainability School Limited (Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand) keeps her busy full-time four days a week. In her spare time Hayley volunteers for Responsible Steel (Independent Non-Executive Director), Maat (Co-founder and Co-Managing Director), Planet Ark (Chair of the ACE Hub Procurement Working Group), WWF (MECLA PCG member, co-chair working group 5a steel and working group 3/4 knowledge), Green Gown Awards (judge since 2019), and Scouts NSW (State Commissioner Inclusion Scout NSW and Group Leader Kingsford Smith Scout Group).

CEO, Company Secretary and Non-Executive Director. Experience in governance, strategic management, marketing, membership, adult learning, advocacy, financial analytics, sales and customer service in manufacturing, residential and commercial building, heavy construction, professional services and international trade; for-profit and for-purpose; big and small; paid and voluntary. Loves scrapbooking and paint-by-numbers. Myers and Briggs call me an ENFP, Other Personality Types gurus call me a Driver, Herrmann calls me an Experimental thinker, Scouts call me Ikki, and my two children call me Mum.

Maryia Haworth

Maryia is an Associate Director in the Strategy Division at Infrastructure NSW, with extensive experience across the infrastructure lifecycle in both private and public sector roles in Australia and the UK. She leads Infrastructure NSW’s sustainability work program, including the Decarbonising Infrastructure Delivery policy implementation, and national harmonisation of the measurement approach, focusing on reducing embodied emissions in infrastructure delivery. The policy and measurement work program has had Australia-wide impact, and has been nominated for multiple industry awards. Maryia has a background in management and finance.

Daniel Powrie

Daniel Powrie is the Sydney Metro Project Director for the Metro West project. He is accountable for delivering the city shaping West project including procurement and construction of all tunnel, station, linewide, train, system, operation and maintenance packages required to deliver the nine confirmed stations and 24km of underground automated railway with a target open date of 2032. Daniel joined Sydney Metro in 2017 as Delivery Director for the Central Station Metro works having previously led the delivery of the NorthConnex Public Private Partnership on behalf of Roads and Maritime Services (RMS). Before arriving in Australia, Daniel spent 20 years working in the UK for the major construction company Costain where he delivered major infrastructure projects including a new Network Rail station at Farringdon and significant highway projects across Wales and England. Daniel has almost 30 years’ experience delivering complex infrastructure projects across the world and has managed the construction of varied projects from container terminals in the Bahamas to sewage treatment works in Yorkshire.

Mike Taherian

Mike is a Senior Manager with 19+ years of experience in different industries. He has successfully delivered new build and development projects across various sectors, including Water, Wastewater, HVAC, Oil and Gas. He is a Chartered Professional Engineer, Mechanical and Principal Design Practitioner with expertise in Piping, HVAC, Programming, Coordination and Management. He leads a dynamic team of Civil, Structural and Mechanical engineers and Architectural designers, who use advanced software to enhance engineering workflows and design quality

Prof. Fang Chen

Distinguished Professor Fang Chen is a highly acclaimed leader in artificial intelligence (AI) and data science, known internationally for her award-winning innovations. Her expertise in developing data-driven solutions has significantly impacted various sectors, including transport, water, energy, health, agriculture and education. She is a fervent advocate for ethical and human-centric AI.

In 2018, Professor Chen received the prestigious Australian Museum Eureka Prize for Excellence in Data Science, often regarded as the "Oscar" of Australian science. She was named "Water Professional of the Year" by the Australian Water Association in 2016 and won the Australia and New Zealand "Women in AI" Award in Infrastructure in 2021, along with the NSW Premier's Prize of Science and Engineering. 

Leading multidisciplinary teams, Professor Chen has achieved several major scientific and industry accolades nationally. These include the Intelligent Transport Systems Australia National Award (2014, 2015, and 2018), the NSW iAwards (2017), the VIC iAwards (2019 and 2020), and the Australian Water Association's National Award and NSW "Research and Innovation Award" (2018 and 2022). Her career spans innovation, digital transformation strategies, and execution in industry, government, and academia. 

Professor Chen has extensive international experience, collaborating with over 100 entities in North America, Europe, and Asia. Her work encompasses early-stage R&D to product development and deployment, expertly bridging customer needs with technological innovations to add business value. 

A prolific researcher, Professor Chen has contributed over 300 refereed publications in science and engineering, authored several books, and holds over 30 patents across multiple countries. She is a key member of the NSW Government AI Advisory Committee, serves on the Singapore National Science Foundation expert panel, and holds positions on several boards including Industry Innovation and Science Australia (iisa) and ITS Australia. She is currently the Executive Director of UTS Data Science Institute.

Elouise Robinson

Elouise is an experienced Digital Engineering Manager and chartered Civil Engineer. She has experience working on road and rail infrastructure projects in Australia and the United Kingdom and is passionate about helping the construction industry become more digitally mature. Elouise currently leads the NSW Digital Engineering team for Bridges, Aviation and Roads at WSP, working collaboratively with engineering design teams and clients to apply information management and Digital Engineering strategies on transport projects, and to explore new opportunities to use digital tools on projects.

Peter Magnisalis

Life-long Penrith resident and contributor Peter Magnisalis is the Founder and Managing Director of Winter Sports World.

He has 27 years’ experience and qualifications in large scale property development and construction. In the past, he has built residential, aged care, retirement living, special and mixed-use projects with groups such as Anglicare, MJH Group, PBS Property Group, John Hollands and Abi Group.

So why on earth is he building Australia’s first indoor snow resort in one of the hottest places on Earth?

Chris Fox

Chris Fox is an artist, architect and academic with 30 years’ experience in the built environment navigating the complex constraints of the public domain. He is passionate about transforming our cities, towns and landscapes through artful thinking and collaboration.

Chris founded the multi-disciplinary design studio Studio Chris Fox in 2013 with the aim of transforming the built environment, bridging the disciplines of art, architecture and engineering. SCF utilises an innovative computational workflow to create structures that push the boundaries of what seems physically possible, whilst telling meaningful stories of place and people through time. In addition to his studio practice, Chris is a Senior Lecturer in Art Processes and Architecture at the University of Sydney School of Architecture, Design and Planning. He is inspired by the future-thinking of academia, and the chance to influence upcoming generations of young designers and creative thinkers.

Chris holds degrees in both fine arts and architecture. He has been the recipient of many Awards, grants and residencies including the 2018 National Trust Heritage Award for the Most Outstanding Project of the Year (Interloop, 2017). Chris ‘s work has been exhibited widely via solo and group exhibitions in Australia, the USA and Europe. Landmark public commissions include Interchange Pavilion (2020), Interloop (2017) and Rozelle Interchange (2023). Chris is a member of AKIN, the competition award-winning design team for Sydney’s Barangaroo Harbour Park, due for completion in 2027.

Philippe Vienot

Philippe Vienot is a leading expert in stormwater infrastructure and flood assessment at Arcadis, with over 25 years of experience at the forefront of hydrological and hydraulic engineering. Throughout his career, Philippe has driven technical and professional advancements in the field, leading complex and high-profile flood studies and providing critical technical expertise to strategic and major infrastructure design projects. Philippe has successfully delivered numerous major projects, with a strong focus on the design and implementation of waterway management systems in urban catchments. His approach combines deep technical knowledge with a commitment to understanding and addressing client needs, fostering long-term relationships built on trust and mutual satisfaction. Known for his proactiveness, efficiency, and responsiveness, Philippe is dedicated to delivering outcomes that exceed expectations and contribute to sustainable and resilient infrastructure solutions. Philippe provides governance as part of the Arcadis' NSW Civil Infrastructure senior management group and contributes through Steering Committee roles on major projects, including the Great Western Highway Upgrade. His responsibilities also encompass the management of national resources for Arcadis' Mobility business, global work-sharing, and the continuous development of Arcadis' Global Excellence Centres.

David Harding

As Executive Director at Business NSW, David leads a number of diverse and capable teams ranging right across NSW's cities and regions, and also sits on the national business Executive Leadership Team.

He is dedicated to ensuring a strong economic and social future for all NSW communities. 

He is co-Chair of the Committee for Sydney Commission into the Future of the Sydney CBD, represents customer’s interests at the Australian Energy Regulator and within the energy industry, and sits on a wide range of other government, trade and industry bodies both here and oversees.  He presently advises the NSW Government VET review, the NSW Government Housing Taskforce, and also sits on the NSW Government 24hr CBD Economy and Smart NSW Advisory boards. 

A supporter of good social investment, he is a director of Engineering Aid Australia, and Apprenticeship Support Australia, as well as serving on the boards and committees of other sporting and community charities and foundations in NSW.

He is a leadership mentor to a number of emerging leaders across the private and public sectors.

David is experienced in the successful co-creation, deal-making, design and construction of highly complex projects. He has spent many years leading transformational programs in the public and private sectors, largely within infrastructure and the built environment.

Andrew Deck

Andrew is an experienced and highly respected civil engineer with a strong road / infrastructure background, on state significant development projects. His focus and strengths lie in team development, including championing mentoring programs, gender parity, diversity in the workplace and values driven strategic leadership; to deliver complex projects that exceed client expectations. Andrew has a diverse range of experience including pre-contracts / estimating, design and construction management, as well as holding corporate senior leadership positions in industry leading Tier 1 construction companies. As the Project Director for the Contactor, the John Holland Seymour Whyte Joint Venture, on the $2.6B Sydney Gateway Project, Andrew has led a highly successfully project that is almost complete, finishing several months ahead of schedule, ahead of budget and provided a map for success that the Client has identified as the new benchmark for their major projects in NSW.

Gordon Taylor

Gordon Taylor is an experienced industry leader, having held executive management roles at Thiess Construction, Ergon Energy, Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets (MIRA) and Ventia Infrastructure Services. Starting his career as a transmission network planner, Gordon has extensive experience in infrastructure design and construction, energy regulatory processes and utility operations and maintenance. Gordon has bid for and delivered more than $25 billon of projects in roads, rail, civil and utilities, including some of the largest PPP projects in South Africa and Australia. These projects include the Victorian Desalination Project ($3.5 billion) and the Suburban Roads Upgrade project ($2 billion). He has also delivered environmentally sensitive and live infrastructure work within communities across Australia, New Zealand and New Caledonia.

Jennifer Gillett

Jennifer is a distinguished leader in the property and construction industry with over two decades of experience in delivering exceptional project outcomes and leading high-performing teams.
With a strong academic background, Jennifer holds dual degrees from the Queensland University of Technology, including a Bachelor of Business and a Bachelor of Applied Science. Committed to ongoing professional development, Jennifer is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a Certified Practicing Project Manager with the Australian Institute of Project Management (AIPM)
Jennifer has made significant contributions to industry organizations and committees, currently serving as the Chair of the National Board and past President of the Queensland chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). She has also played key roles on various government councils and industry committees, including the Ministerial Construction Council and Building Construction & Maintenance Category Council for the Queensland Government, as well as leadership and diversity committees for the Property Council of Australia (PCA) and AIPM. Recently, Jennifer was appointed to the Australian Construction Industry Forum and the PCA Queensland Retirement Living Committee, further demonstrating their commitment to shaping the future of the industry.

Mike Matthews-Stuart

Gavin McConnell

Gavins extensive experience in the urban development field has highlighted the value of effective communications and engagementThese are core elements of effective interagency coordination. This experience has shown that a holistic, professional engagement strategy will minimise conflict, increase transparency and improve project delivery efficiency. In addition to being well versed in the NSW Planning framework, Gavin has specialised in Communications, Engagement, Negotiations and Mediation between government agencies and industry. With long experience in interagency engagement he has worked extensively with local, State and Federal government agencies to coordinate and facilitate infrastructure and development projects. Such engagements include; Australian Governor Generals Office, Royal Australian Navy, Sydney Harbour Federation Trust, NBN rollout, Department of Education. Transport infrastructure projects which Gavin has been involved with include; Sydney Metro, Western Harbour Tunnel/ Warringah Freeway Upgrade road project, Train Station upgrades (DDA and Heritage), B-Line bus project, Ferry wharf upgrades, Regional Cycleway projects etc. Gavins passion for great urban outcomes and effective engagement strategies have allowed complex projects to be delivered more effectively while reducing conflict and promoting transparency & accountability.

Dr. Nicholas Fearnley

Sam Mendoza

Sam is a well-established infrastructure and transport expert with proven success advising clients in business cases, cost and commercial management, risk, procurement, project advisory and delivery.

He has extensive experience in all infrastructure sectors with a particular focus on light rail and metro, marine, aviation and zero emission infrastructure.

Throughout his career, Sam has played a key role in planning and delivering some of the most city-shaping projects including Parramatta Light Rail, TfNSW Zero Emission Buses, Coffs Harbour Bypass, Circular Quay Renewal, Western Sydney Airport and others.

Nik Ruparel

Nik began his career as an Accountant and then transitioned into Business Consulting, before specialising in the recruitment of Executive and Management positions, with over 20 years’ experience in the United Kingdom, Europe, and Australia. Nik has first-hand experience of identifying talent for major infrastructure projects across the country. Nik has delivered recruitment which has included permanent and temporary positions, managing single assignments and project-based recruitment, that has involved the development and delivery of large-scale international sourcing campaigns. Nik has successfully delivered a range of positions covering Senior Executive, Project Management, Transformation, Procurement, Commercial, Design.

Trent Morosin

As a member of the Port Authority of New South Wales Executive team, Trent leads the Infrastructure, Assets and Development divisions Within those divisions Trent is responsible for the long-term infrastructure planning, development and project activities with a recent focus being on the master planning of The Bays Port on Sydney Harbour and the installation of Shore Power.

Stuart Ayres

Stuart Ayres is Chief Executive Officer of Urban Development Institute of Australia NSW, representing our members as the leading voice for the development industry in NSW. He has had a distinguished career as a senior Cabinet Minister and Member of NSW. He was a member of the New South Wales Legislative Assembly from 19 June 2010 to 25 March 2023, representing the electorate of Penrith as a member of the Liberal Party. Stuart held various Ministerial portfolios, including Western Sydney, WestConnex, Police and Emergency Services, Tourism and Sport, and Enterprise, Investment and Trade. As a prominent member and advocate of Australia’s fastest-growing region in Western Sydney, Stuart has a great understanding of both the economic opportunities and inherent challenges involved in the delivery of major projects that will create jobs and additional housing supply for NSW.

Michael Kilgariff

Michael Kilgariff is the Chief Executive Officer of Cement Concrete & Aggregates Australia - the peak body for the heavy construction materials industry in Australia. CCAA members produce the majority of Australia's cement, concrete, and aggregates, which are crucial to Australia's building and construction sectors. These materials support the development of our nation's transport, energy, water, housing, defence, and social infrastructure. The industry generates approximately $15 Billion in annual revenues and employs approximately 30,000 Australians directly and a further 80,000 indirectly. Michael Kilgariff has a strong background in stakeholder engagement and collaboration. He has always sought to build strong working relationships between industry and government, with the aim of supporting and achieving public policy outcomes that are beneficial to industry. Michael has a keen understanding of the major economic, social and government policy drivers, combined with a broad understanding of the key issues impacting on industry. In recognition of his work in this area, Michael won the Transport and Logistics Executive of the Year in the CEO Magazine 2014 Executive of the Year Awards. Michael holds a degree in Economics from the Australian National University and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors’ diploma and advanced diploma courses. He also completed the Cambridge University Judge Business School Advanced Leadership Programme in November 2017.

Peter Colacino

Rogier Roelvink

Rogier Roelvink is the Asia-Pacific Customer & Industry Value Engagement Director at Oracle Construction and Engineering. In this role he supports clients throughout the region in digital transformation in planning, building, and operating the built environment. Rogier has extensive management advisory experience and a passion for informed decision-making. He has experience delivering benefits to many clients from a diversified background working across a broad range of projects, clients, and sectors. He continuous to advise and support organisations in project operations through digitalisation.

Toby Venables

I have led multi-disciplinary teams ranging from direct sales, hardware, software & service marketing, retail sales & operations, call centre sales & customer service, digital marketing, and engineering in the B2B space.
Across these functions (up to 100 employees combined), I have led and/or built the strategy, driven execution, developed & coached managers and team members, delivered turnkey solution projects and facilitated enterprise-wide programs.

Specialties: Business Strategy and Marketing Plan Development and Execution, B2B Consultative Selling, Modular Building Design and Product Specifications, Contract Management, Project Coordination, Product Management, Marketing Management

Finlay Adamson

Fin Adamson leads ZEN’s strategic storage projects including Western Sydney Pumped Hydro.  An Environmental Engineer and Scientist Fin has spent his career developing and delivering projects in the water and electricity sector in Australia.

Gary Iddon

Gary is a highly accomplished operational leader with a successful career in the transport industry. Well respected, both in Australia and overseas, Gary is known for his business acumen and astute relationship building skills, driving results and positive change across all aspects of service delivery, workforce safety, engagement, and a commitment to promoting robust customer-centric culture. As the Managing Director of Transdev Sydney Ferries, Gary's mission has been to lead a team dedicated to delivering continuous performance excellence, establishing new standards in the transport sector. Gary has over 30 years of experience in senior positions with crucial rail and transport industry leaders in the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Australia, including Transdev Auckland and Virgin Trains (UK). He has previously delivered major business improvements in safety, performance and customer satisfaction in the private and public sectors. His capacity to cultivate strong relationships extends beyond organisational boundaries, as he collaborates closely with government agencies, transportation groups, and trade unions. His reputation for successfully meeting contractual obligations is grounded in his deep understanding of the transport industry, operational strategy, and delivery frameworks. With a passion for operational excellence and a commitment to continuous improvement, Gary remains a driving force in the evolution of the transport industry.