Embracing First Nation Values in Modern Water Utility Management: A Conversation with Shaun Cummings

In the latest episode of the Exec Exchange 15-minute podcast, we had the pleasure of welcoming Shaun Cummings, the Managing Director of Barwon Water in Australia, to discuss how First Nations values can inform leadership in a modern water utility. Hosted by Piers Clark, this insightful episode delves into the integration of traditional principles in contemporary water management.

A Journey Into Leadership

Shaun Cummings began his journey in the water sector thanks to a pivotal work experience opportunity during university. Opting for this instead of a summer of surfing, he found a lifelong passion in his field. This decision has allowed him to explore the intricacies of water treatment and management while benefiting customers, the community, and the environment.

Understanding Barwon Water

Serving roughly 370,000 people over an 8,000 square kilometer area south of Melbourne, Barwon Water encompasses stunning natural landscapes, including the Great Ocean Road and the Outway Rainforest. As a holiday destination, the area thrives with a population that doubles during peak seasons. Shaun shares that Barwon Water’s responsibility extends beyond service provision, touching upon environmental stewardship and addressing an equity divide between affluent and disadvantaged communities.

Connecting with Country

Shaun emphasizes that acknowledging First Nations’ heritage is about respect and mindfulness, reminding us of our deep connection to the land. In a region facing growth, climate change, and equity challenges, these principles offer invaluable guidance. Barwon Water has taken strides to embed First Nations values in their operations. Cultural awareness training for new employees and leadership workshops reaffirm their commitment. Through building relationships with traditional custodians and integrating these learnings into business practices, they seek a path of continuous learning and collaboration.

Case Studies of Integration

Shaun shares various practical examples of integrating these values, starting with cultural flows. Partnering with Wadawurrung custodians, Barwon Water helped transform previously silent wetlands, enhancing biodiversity through carefully managed water diversion. Business processes now also follow a methodology called “gut, heart, head, hand,” a sequence that ensures decisions are informed by a genuine understanding and connection to the environment. This holistic approach saves development costs by preventing environmental surprises and encourages more sustainable use of existing resources.

Looking Forward: Circular Economy and AI

The impact of First Nations values also reaches the circular economy, promoting systemic thinking, interconnectedness, and breaking down silos. Shaun highlights the potential for innovative technologies, such as generating energy from waste and biochar production. As the team at Barwon Water contemplates the future, including AI adoption and climate change, these traditional values remain crucial. Insights into managing spiritual, practical, and physical elements of change provide stabilizing strategies in tumultuous times.

Institutionalizing Change

By embedding these values into business processes, Shaun believes Barwon Water is establishing a permanent cultural shift. Accountability now extends across generations, and new corporate values emphasize a future-oriented perspective.

Culminating Thoughts

To conclude the podcast, Piers Clark asks Shaun a personal question about the last time he cried. Reflecting on an annual visit to a beloved national park, Shaun shares how personal reflection amidst nature invoked an emotional response, tying back to the grounding power of connecting with country.

Through this enlightening exchange, Shaun Cummings imparts a profound understanding of how First Nations values enrich modern water utility management. This journey represents bold, thoughtful leadership that prioritizes long-term environmental and community well-being. We hope this conversation inspires further reflection and action towards integrating traditional wisdom into contemporary practices.