Media Release: Jack gets start in country clash

The Powercor Country Festival – a partnership between Powercor, the Essendon Football Club and Geelong Cats – recognises the role rural and regional Victorians play in our community. When Jack walks out on the iconic MCG, he will be representing thousands of Victorians who contribute to strengthening country communities.

Jack began his career with Powercor as an apprentice 17 years ago, starting as a linesman before becoming a Construction Project Leader at the Colac depot. This year, he will also celebrate 20 years’ service with the Colac CFA. During that time he has held roles such as firefighter, communications officer and Lieutenant.

Jack says his roles at Powercor and CFA complement each other and many of the skills are transferrable.

“The two roles often overlap. As a CFA volunteer I attend structure fires, grass and scrub fires and hazardous chemical spills and provide advice on the scene around the requirements of Powercor. As a Powercor employee I provide advice on how we can best assist the CFA to work towards a common goal,” Jack says.

As a major employer, Powercor has almost 1,000 employees who live, work and play in regional communities. Jack is one of many Powercor employees who combine their job with volunteer work for different organisations throughout regional and rural Victoria.

“Powercor is a great contributor to the community and is very proactive in allowing me time with the CFA to attend training and fight fires,” Jack says.

“In the past, Powercor has provided me with special leave to attend long duration fires in areas such as Sydney, the Victorian High Country and various other fires around the state. Without the support of my employer I would not be able to contribute as much time and effort to the CFA as I do.”

Jack saw just how important his work was to the community in late December 2015 when bushfires destroyed 98 homes in Wye River and 18 in Separation Creek.

“Working for Powercor directly related to my involvement with the CFA, and we were able to assist the CFA and DEWLP in working towards the best result for those agencies, while focusing on our Powercor customers best interests as well,” he said.

The Powercor Country Festival match celebrates the people, products and produce from Victoria’s regional heartland. By getting involved in festival, you can support regional Victoria.
The blockbuster match between Essendon and Geelong is on Sunday, 5 May at 3.20 at the MCG.