Manshree Pradhan. My internship experience at Transdev Sydney Ferries

I was fortunate to be able to join the team at Transdev Sydney Ferries team as part of my three-month internship, a prerequisite for my final year at Macquarie University. It has been an exciting and fun learning experience.

The goal of the internship was to gain practical insight into the real-world communications and marketing and be able to apply my knowledge in a practical setting. It was an exciting and fun journey with plenty of learning experiences, made all the more successful with the support from Joana Feiteira , General Manager Customer Experience & Communications, and Lana Bright , Communications & Engagement Manager. I am now headed into my final semester at university and look forward to graduating by the end of the year.

As a marketing and communications intern, my responsibilities included writing and editing content for internal channels and social media, and support to the wider team with any events planning and organisation. Each day was filled with learning and collaboration, and plenty of hands-on experiences.

I had the opportunity to apply my theoretical knowledge to real-world settings and see the impact effective communication can have on operational efficiency and public engagement. I understood the importance of clear and strategic messaging in ensuring smooth operations and fostering a positive relationship between the organisation and customers. I learned how to tailor messages for different audiences, manage communication channels effectively, and contribute to large-scale events.

Joana and Lana provided invaluable mentorship, guiding me through tasks and projects. Their support and the collaborative team environment made my learning process smooth and enjoyable.

The employees and crews at Circular Quay, Barangaroo, and Balmain Shipyard were incredibly welcoming and kind-hearted, making my experience all the more memorable. Two experiences, in particular, stand out to me. The first: going up to the wheelhouse on the F1 Manly ferry, where the crew generously explained the intricacies of vessel operation, navigational calculations, and water safety. Understanding the roles and responsibilities of each team member on the ferry was fascinating. The second, was at the Balmain Shipyard, where I joined Lana during a TAFE student visit and had the unique opportunity to visit engine room on the Freshwater class vessel. Seeing the two massive engines and learning about them was awe-inspiring. These experiences deepened my appreciation for the technical and operational aspects of ferry services and public transport as a whole.

Thank you, Transdev Sydney Ferries team! The internship was an instrumental experience that contributed towards my professional growth and helped gain insight on the importance of clear communication. It equipped me with the skills and confidence needed to excel in my future career. I am deeply grateful to Joana, Lana, and the entire team for this incredible opportunity. I am excited about my future career and look forward to applying the lessons I have learned in my next role!