The Docking family's story at SA Power Networks stretches across three-generations.

Robert (Bob) Docking joined SA Power Networks (back when it was ETSA) in 1962 and completed 26 years of service at Leigh Creek. Brian Docking is getting ready to start extended long service leave before hanging up his work boots after 48 years at the company.

And guess what? Brian’s daughter, Kat, is just starting her own adventure at the company as an IT graduate. 

Bob’s career 

Bob joined ETSA (now SA Power Networks) in 1962 and worked for 26 years in Leigh Creek. He moved to Leigh Creek to join the company’s building services as a painter. Later, he became a technical officer for the reverse osmosis plant, the water treatment plant that supplied the town. He retired in 1988 and now, as a spritely 98 year-old, he is still very competitive in his weekly lawn bowling sessions. 

Brian's career: From motor mechanic to Stobie pole manufacturing

Brian's career with SA Power Networks (formerly ETSA) began in 1978. He started as a motor mechanic in Leigh Creek, maintaining machinery used in mining operations. This provided a practical understanding of mechanical systems. Later, he transferred to the pole yard in Adelaide, a move that would shape his career. He progressed to become the Stobie Pole Manufacturing Coordinator, a leadership position he has held for 25 years. His focus on manufacturing has been a constant throughout his career. 

"I've truly enjoyed being involved in manufacturing," Brian says. "I believe it's important for Australia to have skilled individuals who make things." He is proud of his team, who handle a range of projects. From contributing to school robotics competitions to creating elements for public art, their work has earned company recognition, including awards for innovation and customer service. 

A centenary and a new beginning

Picture: Brian and Kat Docking at the Stobie pole manufacturing facility with one of the first Stobie poles ever produced. 

Brian's final year at SA Power Networks coincided with the 100th anniversary of the Stobie pole. He became the unofficial face of the Stobie pole for the anniversary celebrations, despite preferring to work behind the scenes. He participated in interviews, adapting to the public role. “It certainly pushed me outside my comfort zone,” he admits, “but it proved to be a fitting culmination to my career.” 

A key part of the celebrations was public tours of the pole yard. Brian enjoyed showing how Stobie poles are made. “Everyone is familiar with Stobie poles,” he observes, “but few know the processes involved or where they are made.” The tours were successful, providing insight into this part of South Australia's infrastructure. 

As Brian celebrated the Stobie pole's history, Kat began her career at SA Power Networks. Her first project as a vacation student involved mapping Stobie pole locations and forecasting ground corrosion – a parallel to her father's work, but from a different perspective. “It was quite amusing,” Brian says, “What a coincidence, I’ve dedicated over three decades to making Stobie poles, and now she’s documenting where they all are!” 

Passing the torch: A family tradition

Picture: Brian Docking gives a tour of the Stobie pole manufacturing facility to new starters including his daughter Kat. 

And there's another uncanny coincidence! Kat's first tour of the pole yard (as part of the induction day for new starters) was Brian's last tours for graduates ever. It was like they were passing the torch from father to daughter. "It was definitely a remarkable coincidence," Kat says. “It was great to see dad in his element because he loves his job”. 

Brian is pleased that Kat has joined the company. “I couldn’t be more pleased,” he says. “They’ve provided a wonderful career for me, and I hope Kat finds similar fulfilment here.” He hopes she will find her own path. “I hope she can forge her own path in the business,” he says, “and find a role that both challenges and motivates her.” With so many career paths at SA Power Networks he's confident she'll find a job she loves, just like he did. 

Picture: Bob, Brian and Kat Docking at the Stobie pole manufacturing facility in Angle Park.

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