GET TO KNOW Katherine bennett

SHARE

Katherine Bennett works for Sydney Local Health District as a Project Officer for the RPA Redevelopment. Working closely with our builders and contractors, Katherine has developed a passion for Construction Management and is now undertaking a Graduate Certificate to further her knowledge and expertise in this field.

How have you come to work in health?
After graduating from my university degree, I moved to London and took a temporary role with NHS England in their Nursing Workforce team. My role turned into a full-time project role and I had such an incredible experience I thought I’d continue my career in health.
How did you become part of the redevelopment at RPA?
When I returned home to Australia I was looking for work and saw a Project Officer position on the RPA Redevelopment. I was intrigued by the opportunity to work on such a significant infrastructure project, and the chance to dive into a bit of an unknown area.
What makes you proud to work on the redevelopment?
The people. I get to work with such incredible and passionate people each day, who truly care about the outcomes they are providing.
What will the redevelopment mean for staff and the community?
The redevelopment is providing opportunities for staff and community to work together and give us valuable feedback, which is helping inform the design of the new fit-for-purpose infrastructure. This extensive engagement work has revealed the scope within the design to really celebrate and merge RPA’s rich built environment history. The enhancement and expansion of arts-in-health and Connecting with Country work will also mean the continued creation of culturally safe spaces, and welcoming environments for all.
How do you ensure staff and community are involved in shaping the future of RPA?
I am lucky enough to be part of Project User Groups and Project Working Groups, which ensure a diverse range of voices, from staff to consumers, are able to provide feedback and advice on areas within the redevelopment. Outside of formal avenues, I love having a chat with the staff, patients and visitors I meet across the campus to let them know about the project and ways in which they can get involved.
What are you most looking forward to with the redevelopment?
I’m incredibly excited to see the stakeholders’ visions for their departments come to life, alongside what the arts in health work will create for our patients, staff and community.
What are three words your family and friends would use to describe you?
Dedicated, Loyal and High Strung (as per my partner) .
What’s your favourite song to get you pumped up for work?
Nothing like Big Ol’ Bag o’ Boogaloo Vol. 1 to get the day started.
Last great TV show or movie you watched?
I’ve just finished Succession, and slowly recovering from the Roy family dynamics.
If you’re cooking for dinner, what will everyone be eating?
It’s a bad time if I am cooking dinner, however it’d be a large bowl of spaghetti aglio e olio and a fresh green salad.