When CSBP Planner, Paul Irvine, started with CSBP 40 years ago, he was a fresh faced 16 year old whose Mum had to drive him to work. A lot’s changed since then and Paul recently reflected on his incredible career.
“In Year 11, I’d had enough of school, so I applied for a few apprenticeships; one of which was for CSBP as a Fitter and Turner and that’s how I ended up here,” Paul said.
Paul’s first day on the job was in the then newly revamped apprentice training area, which is now the Stores area.
In his first year, Paul had the opportunity to work in the Superphosphate Manufacturing Plant (SMP) and over the next four years, gained experience across all areas of the site.
He was then offered a job as Plant Maintenance Fitter at SMP before taking on the roles as SMP’s Team Coordinator and then Planner. He then went on secondment to Sodium Cyanide (SCN) as Planner before becoming SCN’s Shutdown, Reliability and Project Manager.
“That involved a lot of small project work and supporting the maintenance and engineering teams. The main task, however, was maintaining Sodium Cyanide’s transportable fleet of 44 steel isotainers, which I really enjoyed.
“I was then seconded back into the Planning role, where I spent another seven or so years.
“In my first year as a Tradesman, I joined the Emergency Response Team for 18 years and finished up as the Alpha Team’s On Scene Commander. It was an amazing time, filled with some incredible memories.”
Other career highlights include Paul’s involvement in the refurbishment and set up of all crushing rolls and systems in SMP and working on the clean-up, access and inspection of Cyanide Tank 3, as well as many other small projects in the SCMF areas.
“Being Team Leader for the inaugural “Clean Up Australia Day” underwater SCUBA clean-up of the jetty area was also a pretty special experience.”
Paul notes that the opportunities and diversity of roles he’s been offered have been key to his longevity at WesCEF.
“That, and the people,” he said. “Having interests outside of work is also important.”
“My wife, children and grandchildren all keep me pretty grounded, but one of my other great stress reliefs is macro photography. I love presenting at various camera clubs and leading nature events, particularly looking at local peacock spiders. In fact, I’m currently working with the WA Museum Terrestrial Zoology Department on a few projects related to a new species of peacock spider.
“As for what the future holds, hopefully it’s retirement and some peace and quiet!”
Congratulations Paul on your 40 year milestone and thanks for your valuable contribution to WesCEF over the years.