Originally from Victoria’s Yarra Valley, Brendan’s electrical career has spanned domestic work, commercial projects and, more recently, installing elevators on large Melbourne sites. 

“I’d been trying to get into high-voltage work for a while,” says Brendan, “so when I saw this role advertised, I wanted to grab the opportunity with both hands, and I was up for a change of location and lifestyle.” 

During his first few weeks of orientation in our Hobart office, Brendan noticed the difference that comes with working in a large, long-established organisation. 

“There’s a lot more structure, a lot more support, and a real focus on values, standards and doing things safely and properly,” he says. 

Settling into island life

Brendan, his partner (who can work remotely) and their two dogs are now settled into life on King Island, though the move was a bit of a whirlwind and finding housing took some time and flexibility. 

“Having access to temporary accommodation in a Hydro Tasmania house while we found a rental took a lot of pressure off during the move,” he says. 

A few months on, the shift from city life to island living has been a positive experience for someone who prefers quiet to chaotic. 

“I guess after working a few years in Melbourne, you can get tired of masses of people,” he says. “Don't get me wrong: I’m going to miss watching the odd AFL game in Melbourne, but it’s only a short flight.” 

While travel to Melbourne and Hobart isn’t difficult, island life does have some challenges. 

“We’d done our research, so there weren’t too many surprises,” Brendan says, “but we realised that you do need to think ahead because ordering and receiving things takes time.” 

That forward planning extends to working on King Island’s electricity network, too. 

“We have to plan carefully and always keep a good amount of stock, otherwise some things could take months to arrive,” he says. 

No two days the same

Brendan’s workdays are varied and largely outdoors. On any given day he might be servicing and upgrading meters, maintaining or replacing overhead lines, changing power poles, working in the office, or even lending a hand at the power station. 

“The amount of variety is great,” he says. “It keeps you focused and keeps your mind fresh. You’re always learning, always thinking.” 

King Island’s infamous weather adds another dimension. 

“Lots of stuff rusts over here, so equipment probably gets changed out a bit more regularly than inland. 

“Working in wind and rain can be tough, but you’ve also got to be really careful about sunburn, even when it doesn’t feel hot – and the leeches are pretty brutal too,” he laughs. 

Working in a small, remote community has been quite a change from city life. Locals often stop for a friendly chat with the crews. 

“People are relaxed and happy to meet you when you’re reading their meter or working on their street, and then they’ll see you again in town and wave or have a chat. I’m usually pretty reserved, so this has been good for me.” 

Outside work, island life is the good life: ocean views, fishing, golf and beach walks with the dogs – though one is still learning not to drink the salt water!

Looking ahead, Brendan sees a future with Hydro Tasmania – and on King Island. 

“It feels like a place I can grow my career and a build a life,” he says. 

For Brendan, the move has delivered a balance that many would envy: meaningful, skilled work that makes a very tangible difference, paired with a quieter life close to nature and community. Sounds like a sea change worth its salt.