I am thrilled to provide this recommendation for Darren Shepherd, a consummate professional and Specialist in Unsealed Roads Management and Operations. Darren recently conducted an outstanding week-long training program for Upper Hunter Shire Council in September, and his impact has been nothing short of transformative.
One standout operational achievement from the training was Darren’s innovative approach to gravel retrieval from road shoulders. Witnessing this technique in action was not only impressive but had tangible results, with up to 60mm depth of gravel added to the roads, extending their lifespan by a remarkable minimum of six years. The creative solution to address the challenge of grass associated with retrieval demonstrated the team’s forward-thinking and effective problem-solving under Darren’s guidance.
On the management side, Darren’s expertise proved invaluable in optimizing our unsealed road network. Upper Hunter Shire Council utilizes a road class frequency-based approach, and Darren introduced advanced methods such as photographic and electronic condition assessments. These techniques optimize our grading works, improving precision in maintenance programs and strategic resource allocation.
Furthermore, Darren conducted a benchmarking exercise comparing our practices against the national database for costs and services. This insightful evaluation allowed us to make informed decisions, ensuring efficient resource utilization and budget allocation. He also played a crucial role in developing a budget model and implementing resource checks, ensuring the sustainability of our current services well into the future.
In summary, Darren Shepherd’s training program has left an indelible mark on our operational and management staff. His expertise, innovative approaches, and dedication to improving unsealed roads management make him a standout professional in his field. I wholeheartedly recommend Darren to any organization seeking a highly skilled and knowledgeable individual to enhance their unsealed roads management and operational efficiency.
The best in the game for roads! Darren’s knowledge across asset, maintenance and projects, along with his ability to communicate with stakeholders from executive, to planner and schedulers, to the grader driver, is outstanding. It’s rare to find a consultant who can blend the technical science of engineering with the practical art of project management. Darren is the complete package to weave together people, process and systems in complex matrix organisations. #roadsjedi
Through my position with Mackay Regional Council we had a long standing relationship with Darren through a range of asset management data collection and condition assessment and prioritisation projects and unsealed road condition and maintenance management projects. In general Darren has an excellent knowledge of these subject areas and is highly professional in project management and delivery. I cannot recommend Darren highly enough.
Darren is a highly competent Engineer, a great leader and a kind person.
Darren is highly skilled in his nominated areas of expertise. I have known him for many years and have a high regard for his work ethic and integrity