After gaining three months of hands-on experience to support their university studies, a group of seven students are wrapping up their time at East Gippsland Water.
The students took part in the organisation’s Vacation Student Program over the summer holidays working in areas that relate to their field of study.
Manager People and Capability Lauren Kyle said the program has been running for almost 20 years.
“East Gippsland Water is proud to support the development of future industry professionals through the Student Vacation Program. This program provides an early-career pathway, enabling university students to build practical, real-world experience to complement their studies. This year’s participants worked in a range of fields including engineering, communications, technology and environmental planning,” Ms Kyle said.
University of Melbourne Master of Mechanical Engineering student, Thomas Poynton, has been completing his placement with the Service Delivery team. Thomas has been working on an in‑depth Root Cause Analysis, strengthening his understanding of how sewage pump stations operate and the factors that can lead to failure.
“I’m amazed at how complex it is to achieve safe, running water for communities throughout East Gippsland,” Thomas said.
Alex Cameron, studying a Bachelor of Business at La Trobe University, joined the Communications and Community Engagement team in her second summer placement with the water corporation. Alex has supported a range of initiatives, including water conservation messaging and raising awareness of the Water Efficiency Rebate Program.
“I have loved engaging with my local community. East Gippsland Water offers so many opportunities — I’d definitely recommend the program to other students,” Alex said.
Monash University Environmental Engineering student Chelsea Morgan has been working with the Asset Planning team.
Chelsea contributed to several key projects, including preparing business cases, digitising hard‑copy Sewer Pipeline Condition Assessments (CCTV), supporting the Paynesville Master Plan and developing a comprehensive flow‑meter database.
“I would 1000% recommend the Vacation Program to other students,” Chelsea said.
Monash University Bachelor of Software Engineering student Mitchell Padula has been working with the Information and Technology team.
Mitchell has been researching and developing software models to help detect system anomalies and identify opportunities to improve efficiency across East Gippsland Water’s operations.
“I have particularly enjoyed learning how different teams collaborate across the organisation. I would absolutely recommend the program for students wanting to gain experience,” Mitchell said.
The Vacation Student Program runs from November to February each year. Applications are open from June 30 each year and close on September 30. This program is a great opportunity for any student undertaking tertiary studies to explore their interests and passions, whilst considering the vast range of opportunities that exist in the water industry.
Thomas Poynton, Mitchell Padula and Alex Cameron are part of the 2025-26 Vacation Student Program.