What I’ve learnt about engagement on big projects in my first year as a Communications & Engagement Officer at Mara

Hi! 

I’m Grace. 

I joined Mara Consulting as a Communication and Engagement Officer a little over 8 months ago after finishing my Bachelor of Communication.

It’s not a role that was ever on my radar after studying Journalism and Public Relations but it’s amazing how many skills have been transferable from my degree into this industry. 

Grace, Christine and Gabie out door knocking for Rankin Park to Jesmond, Inner City Bypass.

Since joining #TeamMara, I’ve had the opportunity to work on community engagement for some major infrastructure and development projects which has allowed me to put my communication skills to the test and learn a lot of new things as well. 

One of the biggest and toughest lessons I’ve learnt is how much difference it makes when communities and stakeholders affected by these projects are engaged early in the process. 

What stood out to me on different projects I've been involved with, was how differently people responded when they felt included. 

Conversations were more open and less-defensive, people felt they were being heard and we were able to take people’s concerns and suggestions on board. 

When we take the time to listen, we don’t just collect feedback, we hear real stories, ideas, and lived experiences that can help to shape a better project. 

Hearing those perspectives made me realise that engagement isn’t just about box-ticking, it’s about actively involving the community and stakeholders, and genuinely improving engagement outcomes. 

By involving people from the start, we can understand what matters most, spot potential issues early, and build genuine trust along the way. It’s a reminder that the best outcomes happen when all voices are part of the conversation. 🤝✨  

Here are my 3 engagement top tips: 

1. Listen – sounds like common sense right. Too often we’re too busy thinking about what we’re going to say next that we don’t hear what people are telling us. So, keep those ears open and that mind quiet. 

   
   

2. Be human – sometimes connecting with someone on a personal level makes a world of difference when having a difficult conversation. Are they concerned about loss of habitat due to vegetation clearing? Are you an animal lover? Use your common interests to create a relationship and prove you’re not all talk.  

   
   

3. Ask for help – if things are going pear-shaped and you don’t feel equipped to handle the situation, don’t be afraid to seek support from your fellow teammates. I have learnt so much from my colleagues and watching how they interact with communities and stakeholders and I know they’ve always got my back if I need a helping hand. 

   
   

Hello to any other C&E newbies out there. What have you learnt? What lessons can you share? If you’re Newcastle based, feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn and catch up for a cuppa (or a hot chocolate in my case). 

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Have you got an SSD or project and need help to engage with communities? 

If you’re looking to engage with communities and stakeholder effectively, we can help. 

Get in touch to talk about how Mara Consulting can support your next project today. 

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Author.

Grace Clegg is an engagement and communications officer. She has a special skill for connecting with people and sharing their stories. Grace loves to write. Creating clear, engaging content and communication materials is her jam!

Connect with Grace:

E: grace@maraconsulting.com.au

P: 02 49654317