Power On Cabling

On 4 February 1939, around 200 Aboriginal people walked off Cummeragunja Station in what became the first mass strike of Aboriginal people in Australia.

The Cummeragunja Walk Off was a powerful act of resistance against harsh government control, poor living conditions, and the forced removal of children. It stands as a defining moment in the fight for Aboriginal rights, dignity, and self-determination.

Today we remember the strength and leadership of the Cummeragunja residents and figures like Uncle Jack Patten, whose courage helped shape the path toward justice for First Nations peoples.

Photo: DeadlyEd – Cummeragunja Walk-Off (deadlyed.com.au)

As we move into Birak, the first summer season in the Noongar calendar, the focus turns to caring for Country and preparing for new growth. Hot days followed by brief rain create the perfect conditions for safe, controlled burns - a practice Noongar people have long used to support regeneration, release seeds, and encourage healthy ecosystems.

During Birak, Moodjar (Christmas Trees) burst into bright yellow-orange bloom, reptiles become active, and young Koolbardi (Magpies) learn vital skills under the guidance of their parents.

Birak is a reminder of the deep knowledge and land management practices that continue to shape and care for boodja today.

This week, after nearly three years with us, we’re saying farewell to Basil as he moves on to his next chapter.

Throughout his time with Power On, Basil consistently brought a great attitude, a strong work ethic and a willingness to step up whenever needed. From major underground power projects in Maylands and St James, to customer-funded works, substation projects, and key outage works across Mandurah and Secret Harbour, Basil’s contribution has been significant and truly appreciated.

He’s been a reliable team player, always ready to do more, and someone you could count on no matter the job or conditions. While we’re sad to see him go, we’re incredibly grateful for the impact he’s made and the dedication he’s shown.

Thank you Basil, for everything you’ve contributed. We wish you nothing but success in your next chapter - you’ll be missed by the whole team.

Merenj Meet

Our menu featured bush tomato and kangaroo sausage rolls, emu meatballs, and crocodile sausages. A fantastic opportunity for many at UGL & Western Power to try Aboriginal bush flavours for the first time.

In November, our Aboriginal Power On Cabling employees contributed 661+ hours across the business.

A huge thank you and congratulations to our team for their dedication and impact!

A look into our Merenj Meet BBQ, where we began the day with a truly moving Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony led by Danny Ford OAM. His storytelling, cultural knowledge, and presence set a tone of respect, reflection, and connection for everyone attending. This was followed by a BBQ lunch featuring Indigenous food.

We are proud to support the Clean Energy Link – North program and continue building respectful relationships with Indigenous communities. A big thank you to UGL for partnering with us and helping make this day possible.

Meet Dylan 👋

I have been with Power On for a just over three years. Starting off in the company as a Project Administrator, and then as a Project Coordinator working on two long term underground power projects, before moving into my current role in the Safety and Health team where I focus on training and fleet management.

Decals are in! Welcome to the Power On boardroom.

In August, the Power On civil team successfully started works at the Neerabup 132kV and 330kV Terminal Substation.

Power On has partnered with to deliver the Neerabup Terminal upgrades as part of Western Power’s Clean Energy Link North program.

Over the coming months, the Power On team will pour 280 concrete foundations made up of a whopping 2600m3 of concrete and will shift more than 3500m3 of soil to deliver this project.

Great to see everyone digging in and the whole team working to get the clean energy Power On!

Our POC team successfully drilled under a section of road in Osborne Park with no damage to the surrounding infrastructure. Well done, team! 👏