Future Leader
Mawsons quarry operator Tasha Crilly discusses her career journey and why she’s proud to have forged a career in the quarrying sector.
Supporting the next generation of quarrying professionals is a key part of the Institute of Quarrying Australia’s (IQA) recently launched national awareness campaign.
The campaign, known as That’s Solid, shines a light on the opportunities and plentiful roles available in Australia’s quarrying sector for school leavers and job seekers.
Aimed at encouraging more people to consider a career in the quarrying sector, That’s Solid includes resources, an interactive career quiz, and the ‘Find a Quarry’ directory, which lists quarries across Australia who are actively engaging with their local communities on workforce and career pathways. One of those quarries is Mawsons, the well-regarded quarry operation which has been supporting its local communities across Victoria and New South Wales since 1912. The company plays a major role in many regional areas by hiring local people and training local cadets throughout its quarrying operations. Two of Mawsons’ employees, quarry operator Tasha Crilly and marketing and promotions manager Rachel Whittaker, spoke to Quarry about Tasha’s career so far and why Mawsons is passionate about supporting its local community.
Can you tell us about your career prior to joining Mawsons?
Tasha Crilly: I graduated from high school in November 2022. My first opportunity was at the Bulla spoil facility in Sunbury as part of the West Gate Tunnel project, operating equipment such as moxies, compactors and dozers. In June 2023, I was given the opportunity to work interstate at the Goyder Wind Farm in South Australia, and when that contract finished up, I returned to Melbourne and completed sub-division work in a new industrial estate in Truganina. After a slow end to 2023 and a slow start to 2024, I decided to move back to my hometown in Cohuna, which is when I saw an advertised position for a quarry operator at Mawsons Pyramid Hill Quarry, where I started full-time in May 2024.
Did you always have an interest in this type of work?
Tasha: Throughout high school, I didn’t know what I wanted to do. I had lots of people telling me I should go and join the police force, or I should go to university. I was really interested in psychology during high school, but I couldn’t make up my mind. I had an uncle who worked in the [construction] industry and he got me a start in Melbourne. Mum and Dad said I couldn’t just sit at home, I had to find a job. So, I got started, and I loved it straight away, and it’s been very rewarding so far.
How did you find joining Mawsons and transitioning into the quarrying sector?
Tasha: I was struggling to secure full-time work, and it almost seemed impossible due to factors like my age and not having a lot of experience under my belt. When the position became available at Mawsons, I jumped at it straight away, and I was very eager. I didn’t know much about Mawsons when I applied, other than they were a family-run business. My current role as a quarry operator is primarily operating the dump truck and sales loader. I’ve also been given the opportunity to operate other equipment, as well as being in the office and the weighbridge.
Do you think your skills from the other industries have translated into your role at Mawsons?
Tasha: I think they’ve definitely helped, as the experience I had and the tickets I had gained previously helped me secure my position with Mawsons. However, Mawsons does offer training to those without experience in the industry and further training to those who do. There are no specialised skills needed to excel at Mawsons; however, I believe your character and willingness to learn will take you much further in the industry than any skill could. You need to be self-motivated, someone who is willing to give anything a try and be someone who is approachable. Having the skills to operate is one thing, but having the personality to back it up is heaps more important.
Since joining, how have you found working at Mawsons and being in the quarrying sector?
Tasha: Since joining Mawsons, I’ve been given countless opportunities to showcase skills and become a role model and mentor for women and younger generations in the industry. I am passionate about advocating for the amazing women in our sector and encouraging other women and young people to join.
What would you say to anyone thinking of joining the sector?
Tasha: If anyone is interested in joining, I would tell them to just have a crack and give it a go. If you’re someone who’s able to show up to work every day, work hard and learn as much as you can, there’s no doubt in my mind that you can excel in this sector. So if you’re holding back from applying for a position because you lack the experience or knowledge, don’t let that stop you.
Quarry asked Rachel Whittaker why Mawsons invested in employing local members of its communities?
Rachel Whittaker: We’ve been working really hard on letting people know that there’s more to Mawsons than just a career driving trucks. Tasha is a great example of the opportunities available within Mawsons, and we’re so proud of Tasha’s confidence over the past two years, which has allowed her to step up time and She hopes to inspire women and young people to work in the quarrying sector. time again. She’s become a real role model for future employees, including women and young people, which is awesome.
