Local Stories
Local Stories
Born and bred Bowen local Brent Edgerton is living proof of Abbot Point Operations' commitment to 'Grow Local'
Brent's wife Rebecca is also a born and bred local and is currently the managing pharmacist at one of Bowen's local pharmacies.
Brent began his working life at the port, completing his electrical apprenticeship in the early 2000s before taking on roles within the then port owner’s mining business.
He returned to Abbot Point some years later after working in town and has advanced his career through roles in the process team and in project supervision to become APO’s Planning and Engineering Superintendent – tasked with maintaining the terminal’s critical equipment and infrastructure and delivering operational efficiency projects.
As Brent explains, “I’ve been given great opportunities to grow and develop here at APO. If you show you’re motivated and keen to make a difference, there is no shortage of support and encouragement to grow your career.
“No two days are the same, and our current focus is on developing our own people through ownership of projects and the opportunities that brings.”
In his own words, Brent will tell you he genuinely loves his work at APO. “Alongside the commitment to developing careers, APO provides everyday support through its approach to work-life balance. Employees are supported to put their families first and we know this has flow-on benefits to the community.
“The community also benefits from the company’s willingness to help us fulfil our volunteer community responsibilities and commitments. As Chair and First Officer of the Bowen Delta Rural Fire Brigade, I have been really well-supported by leadership at APO who have allowed me to attend to my firefighting duties, often during working time.
“APO also has a commitment to prioritise local businesses and provide locals with work. We will always preference a local company and we always try to give young people from Bowen, including those studying away, vacation employment and other opportunities, and that’s something I’m really proud to be a part of.”
Overall, Brent’s experience shows how APO is growing local by providing a great place to work with a strong culture and a clear commitment to flexibility and work-life balance.