We are pleased to introduce you to Poppy Evans who recently started as our Local Content Adviser, working to maximise the participation of local businesses in regional supply or works contracting opportunities. Poppy joined SWDC after moving from Perth to the South West to be part of our Transforming Bunbury’s Waterfront team. Prior to this, Poppy spent three years working on projects at the Department of Energy and Economic Diversification, across industry development, jobs and energy portfolios.
What is the focus of your work and a typical day for you at SWDC?
In the Local Content Advisor role, my focus is on increasing awareness around the opportunities for local businesses to get involved with State Government tenders. So, a typical day for me involves talking to local small and medium businesses across the South West about capability building and understanding the complexities of government procurement.
What sort of support can you provide to local businesses?
The Local Content program is about creating connections with business, and as a Local Content Advisor I provide information about current and upcoming State Government tenders through weekly updates, as well as explore opportunities to connect head contractors with subcontractors. Local Content is supported through the WA Buy Local Policy, and I can help businesses to understand what this means for them in procurement processes.
What is a project you have most enjoyed working on during your time at the Commission?
I have previously been working as part of the Transforming Bunbury’s Waterfront team, and it has been so exciting to see the progress of the new breakwater that is being built in Casuarina Boat Harbour, as well as be a part of a complex and highly collaborative project by all the parties involved. It has been a great opportunity to get out and talk to the community about how they use the waterfront, and want to continue to enjoy it long into the future.
What do you like best about living and working in the South West?
I love the community in the South West. Everyone has been incredibly welcoming during my move here and I’m excited about the future of the region. Being able to live near the stunning coast and beautiful forests is the opportunity of a lifetime, one which has and continues to provide endless adventure.
