Who We Are
Our People
DDR is committed to the genuine engagement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, ensuring that we establish a work environment that is welcoming, respectful and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.
We have a strong focus on employing the best people and inspiring confidence within local communities through long-term employment, business opportunities and a work environment designed to succeed.
Our employee development programs are built around our commitment to investing in people, promoting from within and providing meaningful career paths, through internal and external training.
Our Board
Tom Hutcheson
Director
Tom has over 35 years’ experience in the construction industry with extensive experience operating in remote areas, particularly in the Northern Territory He is passionate and committed to providing opportunities in employment and training for local Aboriginal people, particularly the younger generation. Tom is dedicated to improving the economic outcomes of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and is proud to have a successful business which allows him to be able to offer such opportunities.
Tom is a proud Wakka Wakka and Kabbi Kabbi Aboriginal man. Tom’s Mum is stolen generation, born in 1933 in “Barambah Mission/Reserve”, later named Cherbourg Mission Queensland.
Phil Harcourt
Director
Phil is a professional civil engineer with over 50 years of post-graduate experience, including more than 35 years in the steel and concrete remediation industry. He is passionate about fostering opportunities for Aboriginal employees and communities, this commitment was the motivation behind founding DDR Australia with Tom. Phil actively promotes mentorship and professional development aimed at empowering employees, ensuring they have access to the resources and support needed to thrive in their careers. As a director of both DDR Australia and Duratec Limited, Phil oversees corporate governance, overall company management and strategic planning.
Tristan rees
Non-Executive Director
Tristan has been actively involved across various roles within DDR since inception. In his current role as Non-Executive Director, Tristan provides guidance and governance to the management team with a focus on outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. Through his role as Chief Operations Manager at Duratec, he ensures the ongoing support to DDR and its strategic plan as a minority JV Partner.
Katarina Skene
Non-Executive Director
Katarina has worked in various government departments for over 15 years, in roles with a strong focus on advocating for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Katarina held a position within the Department of Police, Fire and Emergency Services, where she was involved in writing a business case to create an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Division within the department to increase Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representation through employment and retention. In 2011, Katarina was nominated to be part of the team that assisted in the Indigenous Service Delivery—Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Capability Framework project planning group. From that project, an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mentoring program was designed. Still within government, Katarina was for three years a member of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advancement Framework Committee.
Katarina is a proud Wakka Wakka and Kabbi Kabbi Aboriginal woman. Katarina’s Mum is stolen generation, born in 1933 in “Barambah Mission/Reserve”, later named Cherbourg Mission Queensland.
Key People
Shane Katauskas
General manager
With over 25 years of experience in both greenfield and brownfield projects across the commercial, industrial, defence, mining and oil & gas sectors, Shane brings a wealth of knowledge to his role. His diverse project expertise is complemented by a solid understanding of construction and project management principles, along with strong team leadership skills. Shane excels in fostering collaborative environments and values the importance of building long-lasting, positive relationships, which he believes are essential for driving business success. Shane is particularly passionate about creating career and growth opportunities for Aboriginal employees and is regarded as an excellent mentor and educator in this space.
Peter Cox
Aboriginal Engagement and Mentoring Manager
Peter is dedicated to empowering Aboriginal employees through mentorship, guiding them towards meaningful, long-term careers. He plays a crucial role in guiding project management teams to engage effectively with local Aboriginal business owners and communities. Peter’s efforts contribute to the sustainable economic growth of Aboriginal businesses. Peter actively shares his knowledge of Aboriginal culture, fostering understanding and respect within the workplace. He also actively participates in DDR’s partnerships, including the Kimberley Spirit Football Pathway Program, ensuring work experience programs are executed effectively.
