Highlighting Water Resources staff
Water Resources Division is celebrating 70 years highlighting and acknowledging staff for their hard work and contribution to water management. The division has approx.
80 staff who all play a vital role in what we do with a diversity of positions ranging from drillers to engineers and data officers to regulators.
Meet Jess Argent and Hayley Fletcher, and find out more about their lives in and out of work.
What do you do in your position?
Jess: As a project and engagement officer, my role is all about connecting with the community and making sure events and projects run smoothly. I’m often the first point of contact for questions or ideas, and I really enjoy being out at community events, chatting with people, and building positive relationships. A big part of my job is organising and setting up events, and working closely with local groups, stakeholders, and partners to bring everything together. Most of all, I focus on creating welcoming opportunities where people feel comfortable to get involved, share their thoughts, and feel supported.
Hayley: As a water monitoring assistant, I assist in the delivery of various surface water and ground water monitoring programs and projects. A large part of my role is to help with the operation and management of telemetered sites as well as the collection of field data across the NT. When not in the field I’m in the office processing and editing field data.
What skills or qualifications are important for your role?
Jess: Being friendly, approachable, and positive is key in this role, along with strong communication and listening skills to connect well with the community. It also requires being organised, reliable, and able to work closely with community members and stakeholders to make sure events run smoothly. Most importantly, it’s about having a genuine interest in supporting the community and creating welcoming spaces where people feel included and valued.
Hayley: While no formal qualifications are required you do need to be proficient in a range of technical skills both in the office and out in the field, all of which can be learnt on the job. Surveying, the operation and maintenance of telemetry instruments, boats, ATVs, chainsaws and the use of data collection/monitoring equipment just to name a few.
What’s been a highlight or achievement for you in this position?
Jess: A standout moment for me was attending the Alice Springs Show, where I had a hands-on role in making sure the 2-day event ran smoothly. I coordinated logistics, ensured plenty of information and merchandise were available, and supported the team in engaging with the community throughout. It was also an exciting opportunity to meet the Chief Minister and the Minister for Water Resources, making it a memorable experience that highlighted the impact of our work in the Territory.
Hayley: Getting to work with great people and being able to see and experience some amazing places around the NT that most people just wouldn’t get the opportunity to visit. Pretty special to call that my workplace!
What do you love about working in the Territory?
Jess: I love being outdoors and feel lucky to live and work in the Territory, with its wide-open landscapes and beautiful weather. The kids have all their toys, and I’ve got the cows and chooks, which keeps us busy and connected to the land. We spend plenty of time camping, exploring off-road, and making the most of everything this amazing place has to offer.
Hayley: I am a born Territorian, so naturally grew up as an outdoors kid. I love the laid-back lifestyle, the 2 extremes of the wet and the dry seasons and just being outside in nature.
Do you have any words of wisdom or a favourite quote you’d like to share?
Jess: Hakuna Matata! It means no worries.
Hayley: Never smile at a crocodile!
