franc.committee

These are the people behind the scenes of franc.sydney 2024, challenging the rationale of current practices and perceptions of urban stormwater and its management. 


Dr Andrew Thomas 

President - Stormwater NSW 

Andrew has been involved in the water industry for the past 19 years in the public, private and research sectors. 

During this time, he has gained experience in the management of urban water from a range of perspectives including strategic planning, integrated catchment management, asset management, performance monitoring and riparian restoration.

Nerida Taylor

Parramatta River Delivery Engine Manager - Sydney Water

Nerida has worked for Sydney Water for the past four years on a multifaceted project to bring swimming back to the Parramatta River. This project is a coordinated approach to improve catchment management; including reviewing land-use planning controls, working with partners to improve stormwater management and working internally to upgrade sewer infrastructure. 

Previously Nerida worked at Blacktown City Council on their WSUD Capacity Building Program and was involved in initiating Splash, a state and local government funded program that supported the implementation of water sensitive cities, in conjunction with the CRC for Water Sensitive Cities.  

Andre Magar   

Stormwater NSW

Andre is passionate about raising awareness within the community and strives to get all the different segments united with a common goal of protecting our precious waterways. 

Lachlan Shackcloth-Bertinetti  

National Business Development Manager - Ocean Protect  

For the past decade, Lachlan has been a dedicated figure in the stormwater industry, contributing significantly to Ocean Protect. His primary focus lies in the comprehensive management of stormwater treatment assets, spanning from design and supply to manufacturing, installation, and maintenance.

Throughout this extensive tenure, Lachlan has acquired a diverse spectrum of industry expertise, engaging with a wide array of stakeholders, including plumbers, civil contractors, builders, developers, engineers, councils, regulators, asset owners, community groups, and charitable organizations, among others.

Having worked extensively across Australia, Lachlan's journey has kindled a profound enthusiasm for our industry and a fervent commitment to advancing stormwater outcomes.

Julie McGraw 

Managing Director - GEMS Event Management Australia 

Julie has more than 25 years’ experience in the event management industry, working alongside a number of environmental management associations. Through her work, Julie has become a passionate advocate for the betterment of environmental health and liveable cities for generations to come.

Alexa McAuley 

Managing Director - Civille 

Alexa has more than 20 years’ experience in green and blue infrastructure policy, planning and design. Alexa has substantial experience consulting to local government and has helped many local government clients shift water sensitive urban design from a niche practice to a mainstream activity. 






franc.sydney

Key Dates

Standard Registration Open
Thursday, 15 February 2024

Standard Registration Ends
Monday, 8 April 2024

Late Registration Open
Tuesday, 9 April 2024

Late Registration Ends
Wednesday, 17 April 2024 

Conference Opens
Wednesday, 17 April 2024

Conference Closes
Thursday, 18th April 2024


Conference Organiser

GEMS Event Management

PO Box 1221 Burwood NSW 1805

P: (02) 9744 5252