Life as a Level Crossing Removal Project Graduate

With applications for the 2025 Victoria’s Big Build Graduate Program now open, we checked in with two grads from the 2024 LXRP cohort to see what they’re loving about the program.

“The nature of LXRP’s work means changes and some disruption for the community, but the coolest part of my job is seeing the positive impact it can have. Already in my first five months I have witnessed a lot of gratitude from the public on what our projects bring to the area,” says Stakeholder Relations and Communications Graduate, Mikayla Kear .

Mikayla, who is from Christchurch, New Zealand - a city she says often felt like more of a small town - moved to Melbourne to join the graduate program in February 2024.

Despite not having a communications background, she knew a people-focused position was right for her after working directly with the community.

“In my first rotation I was able to work on projects across Melbourne, where each project has unique stakeholders and priorities. I’ve helped launch designs for the new Melton Station, organised community information events, collated survey results and written a consultation summary report.”

“This job is one where you get to see the changes that your contribution makes.”

Unlike Mikayla, Civil Engineering graduate Lachlan O'Donnell was already an LXRP expert when he started the program, having completed the 2022 LXRP Internship Program.

Growing up on rural property an hour north of Melbourne, his interest in environmental science and ‘how things worked’ led him to the path of engineering.

“I’m currently working on the Keon Parade project, which includes the construction of two rail bridges over Keon Parade, a new Keon Park station, roadworks and landscaping work” says Lachlan.

“One very rewarding undertaking on this project was organising trial pours and testing new concrete mixes with recycled plastic aggregate. Ultimately, these mixes were adopted into the final project in the station precinct's concrete areas. Tasks like these have given me a sense of ownership of my work and investment in delivering the project outcomes.”

Graduates at LXRP rotate through a range of teams and projects over a two-year period – an aspect which makes Lachlan love the variety of the program.?

So, what advice do Mikayla and Lachlan have for current students?

“Take more risks, this is the time to learn through trial and error and give things a go - you never know what you might like,” says Mikayla. “Don’t stress over the little things and worry about stuff that you can’t change; just enjoy the stage you are at and live.”

For Lachlan, the most important thing is to “make friends through chatting to people in classes or joining clubs and society. The relationships and friendships you create in university will be the foundations of your professional network once you graduate. This can be incredibly valuable as your professional career progresses.”

Applications for the 2025 Victoria’s Big Build Graduate Program close at 11:59pm on Monday 5 August.? Visit the VBB website to apply!