Back in 2007 Andy Raxworthy was providing safety induction training particularly for heights, confined spaces and gas testing to CSBP Chemicals and Fertilisers teams as an external contractor, when the business moved to an in-house training model.

In late 2008, when the business moved to an in-house training model, Andy applied for and was successful in his application for a new role in the Training and Competence team, where he has happily remained since.

Andy initially delivered face-to-face training and assessing, five days a week, to CSBP teams in Kwinana, to regional teams at Ferts’ Country Works locations, including Geraldton, Bunbury, Albany and Esperance and to contractors.

However, in 2020 the emergence of COVID-19 disrupted this traditional form of training and assessing and forced the whole of WesCEF to move online.

“It (COVID) was a huge learning experience for the team and for WesCEF. I’d say it forced us to jump two years or so ahead in terms of how we train and in modernising our training style. We had to suddenly learn how to do online development, training, assessing – and successfully.

There was initial concern that safety information might not be delivered as effectively if it wasn’t in person, however, it turned out to be, not only as successful as face-to-face, but was also less disruptive to team productivity.”

Andy’s role as Training and Competence Specialist eventually morphed into Training Advisor, predominantly working with the Ferts business. After COVID-19 restrictions eased and as teams moved back to the office, the requirement to travel for training and assessing became less frequent due to many teams now being familiar with the online training and induction experience.

When asked what’s kept him in his role and the business for so long, Andy’s appreciation of his day job shone through.

“I enjoy the face-to-face training experience, the interaction with learners and the many ‘aha’ moments when they’ve learnt something new.”

“I recall a conversation with my Manager during one PDR discussion about my role and not being too interested in ascending the ladder of leadership or seeking out a change. My response was – and still is – that I felt like I’d already reached the level of job satisfaction I needed and saw no need to change my circumstances. Waking up every morning and knowing I still wanted to go to work – was a good sign!”

Andy enjoys all things outdoors – four-wheel driving and caravanning, camping and fishing. He also has four adult children and four grandchildren that keep him entertained and busy.

After giving 12 months’ notice of his impending retirement, in mid-2025, after almost two decades with WesCEF, Andy had quite a bit of leave banked up, including his long service leave. He has spent the last six months enjoying this leave with his wife on a caravanning trip around most of Australia.

After a short stint back in the office to wrap up, at the end of January, he looks forward to hopping on a plane with his wife, to embrace a four-year experience in Bali .

“After caravanning for six months, we’ve learnt how little we need each day in terms of supplies and clothing and belongings, so we aim to pack light and spend four years living in Bali and exploring Indonesia.”

Thank you for your incredible contribution over almost two decades Andy. Wishing you safe travels and wellness in your retirement – starting with a wonderful adventure in Indonesia!