Casting the Net Wider: Reeling in Talent from Unexpected Waters
| Wednesday, September 9, 2026 |
| 12:10 PM - 12:30 PM |
| McBerns Papers Room - Newcastle Racecourse |
Overview
Gympie Regional Council - Dylan Wersag, Water Treatment Plant Operator & Sarah Iwanoczko - Senior Environmental Officer
Details
Skills shortages demand a broader approach to recruitment. This session explores how Gympie Regional Council looked beyond direct water industry experience to identify candidates with valuable transferable capabilities, including water quality management, system monitoring, data interpretation, problem-solving and experience in regulated environments. A practical case study follows professionals transitioning from aquatic zoology into water treatment roles, highlighting challenges such as differences in scale, automation and regulatory frameworks. Attendees will learn how targeted support can make unconventional career transitions successful, uncover untapped talent and help organisations build adaptable, resilient and future-ready teams by recognising capability over traditional industry backgrounds and credentials.
Speaker
Sarah Iwanoczko
Senior Environmental Officer
Gympie Regional Council
Casting the Net Wider: Reeling in Talent from Unexpected Waters
12:10 PM - 12:30 PMBiography
Sarah is a Senior Environmental Officer with Gympie Regional Council and transitioned into the water industry following a 10-year career in the aquatic zoological industry in Australia and abroad. She began in treatment operations before moving into environmental compliance and monitoring. She continues to develop experience across water quality, treatment processes, environmental risk management, and regulatory operations.
Dylan Wesarg
Water Treatment Plant Operator
Gympie Regional Council
Casting the Net Wider: Reeling in Talent from Unexpected Waters
12:10 PM - 12:30 PMBiography
After transitioning into water treatment in March 2025, Dylan has completed his Cert 3 in Water Industry Operations and developed a greater appreciation for where our water comes from.
