It’s people like Ross who have helped shape the MACA team since the beginning.
For nearly 19 years, Ross has helped our operations run smoothly across several sites. He has worked at various sites including Wiluna and Cue to name a few, as well as being involved in one of MACA’s first-ever mining projects at Norseman in 2004.
“I joined MACA as a dump truck operator and then upskilled to join the drill and blast crew. I’ve worked at Duketon for 12 years now, and still, each day is different.
“I’ve worked as a drill and blast supervisor, an operator in production, and helped out on special projects when needed, such as a 250T float move,” said Ross.
With a background in the New Zealand Army, Ross’ approach to life is shaped by discipline and respect.
“There’s so much to learn from what people pass on. For me, it’s supervisors like Runners, Storky, Sumo, and Wassa, who I learnt a lot from in the early days.
“Listening and respect will get you a long way. My advice to others would be to show up and listen to those more experienced than you, they have a lot to teach people,” said Ross.
After so many years with MACA, Ross’ network extends far beyond his site crew, and it’s these long-standing networks that have become some of the most rewarding parts of his career.
“In the early days, I worked with many graduate engineers, such as Ben Stevenson, Ewen Koh, Jack Le Serve, and Josh Redmond, who all spent time with me in drill and blast as part of their work experience.
“I used to pick Josh up from WASM and drive him to site, we had a lot of laughs along the way.
“The guys are still doing great things and have progressed to senior roles. It’s bloody good to see how far they’ve come; it really gives me a buzz.
“It just proves that as long as you’re motivated, show respect, and willing to truly listen and learn, then there are no limits to what you can achieve,” he said.
Ross’ calm-natured approach to his work and personal life is reflected in his favourite saying ‘please remain calm’.
“I say this a lot because there’s no sense in panicking about things out of your control.
“If you have a level-headed approach to challenges, then you’ll find a solution. So ‘please remain calm’,” said Ross.
When not at work, Ross enjoys travelling and surrounding himself with family.
“I spend time in Thailand, riding my motorbike, and spending time with my four grandkids. They definitely keep me busy.”
Ross foresees his next five years to look pretty much the same as the last, but like many of us, still holds thumbs for the winning Powerball.
“I’m content where I am. I have a good time, I enjoy the work, and I have great bosses.
“So, I’m quite happy to carry on doing what I’m doing for as long as I can. Unless I win the lotto!”
