Mark Dobson – T4S
In 1986, a young quality control technician arrived in Katherine, Northern Territory, on his first FIFO assignment. What began as a six-month job would become the start of an amazing 40-year career within our industry.
His first role was in quality control at the local quarry, where he was involved in stockpiling material for the construction of a new Tindal setting, approximately 10 kilometres south of Katherine.
The job was only scheduled to last six months, but Katherine had made an impression. He loved the Territory and was disappointed when the stockpiles were completed and the job came to an end.
Then, as often happens in the industry, opportunity came along.
A Coffey engineer visited the laboratory looking for advice on the crushed material. A conversation followed, and a job offer was made — an opportunity that would allow him to stay in the Territory a little longer.
In 1986, he joined the Coffey team, a decision that would ultimately become a defining moment in his career.
Over the past 40 years, the standards and principles behind quality testing have remained consistent, but the way the work is carried out has changed dramatically.
In the early days, digging test holes could involve little more than a hammer and chisel. A new chisel from the boss was a sure sign that your work was appreciated — while the less energetic workers could proudly boast that their chisels stayed sharp for much longer!
Technology has transformed the field as well. There were no mobile phones to capture photographs or record locations. Today, tablets connect field teams directly with computer systems, making it easier to collect, record and share information.
But 40 years ago, there was the paperwork. Black pens only.
Calculations were completed by hand, records were maintained on paper, and only a NATA signatory could sign off using a blue pen and the official ink stamp.
Achieving signatory status was a significant milestone. It demonstrated experience, knowledge and trust, and represented an important pathway for career progression within the testing industry.
There have been countless projects, locations, challenges, changes in technology and, most importantly, people along the way. Yet throughout it all, the core work has remained remarkably familiar.
What makes this career particularly remarkable is that after 40 years, he is still doing essentially the same work he was doing in the 1980s — and today he is doing it with the same company.
It is a testament to a career built on experience, adaptability and a genuine commitment to the industry, as well as to a company that has provided the opportunity to grow and evolve alongside a changing industry.
The most fitting part of the story is that it has come full circle.
1986–1988
Tindal Location — Stage 1 | Coffey
2026–Present
Tindal Location — Stage 6, P500 | Coffey
Forty years apart, and back at the same location.
From Stage 1 to Stage 6, it makes for an interesting story — and certainly an interesting life.
