The issue
Living and working out West makes staying connected hard. The WLNSW team doesn’t get many chances for catch-ups, and those “watercooler moments” are rare. Most of our communication happens through emails or messages, which can easily be misread or lost in translation. Over time, with limited contact, relationships can become strained and people start working in silos. Add the sheer distance—WLNSW covers 40% of the state—and getting to a team meeting can mean a 4–8 hour trip, making regular, meaningful connection a real challenge.
The solution
WLNSW recognised that strong relationships and valuing our differences matter. As a team, we committed to building regular, clear communication into our everyday work so missed or overloaded emails became less of an issue. We ran team workshops focused on leadership, accountability, and aligning our values with how we work. We also embraced new ways of connecting, using Teams to keep conversations in one place and open to everyone. Regular accountability check-ins, clearer project planning, and shared priorities have helped us stay organised and better support each other in delivering our work.
The impact
As a result, the team is more confident and connected. People are using their skills, interests, and strengths to shape their roles and the outcomes they deliver. There’s a greater willingness to speak up, share ideas, and ask for support when needed. Conversations are more open, and clearer systems now help guide problem solving and decision-making. The team understands the need to stay innovative, while also recognising the value of strong systems to support consistent, on-ground results. The team recognise the need for the reimagination of WLNSW and the opportunity it holds, even in uncertainty.
Curious, Consistent and Considered
Building emotional intelligence into how we work is a constant opportunity to learn, adapt and become flexible with change, difference and diversity in our team. We don't think we are the best at what we do, however, we do know we care, and each of us show a real commitment to want to learn, be curious and be open to change even if uncomfortable.
Our continued learning is shaping how we are using our language to understand and know what our needs are, and the needs of others. This includes recognising our personal impact on others in how we like to work. Our new catchphrase is 'I'm curious about that, tell me more'
WLNSW are looking forward to building more into our innovation and ideas to shape the future of WLNSW alongside our members and stakeholders.
The team recognise that if we build a strong team, it will ensure longevity in all facets of adversity, no matter the challenge ahead.
