Cara-Lee van der Merwe
Sunshine Coast,QLD
Summary
Dynamic dispatch & operations controller with expertise in fleet management systems at Hail Creek Mine. Proven ability to enhance production efficiency through real-time data analysis and cross department collaboration. Strong leadership and critical thinking skills drive successful emergency responses and operational improvements, ensuring safety and compliance in high pressure environments.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Dispatch & Operations Controller
Hail Creek Mine
2023 - Current
- Monitoring and managing real time data using fleet management systems to optimize haulage and equipment utilization.
- Coordinating production priorities and dispatch activities across multiple fleets, including haul trucks and load units.
- Responding rapidly to operational changes and equipment downtime to minimize production impact.
- Liaise with production, maintenance, drill and blast and planning teams to ensure cohesive operations.
- Ensuring compliance with fatigue management and adherence to site safety protocols for safe equipment operation.
- Coordinating emergency responses and supported incident management alongside the Emergency Response Team.
- Analysing operational data to identify trends and improvement opportunities, contributing to continuous enhancement initiatives.
- Preparing and presenting shift handover reports and production summaries to management.
Haul Truck Operator / General Mining Crew
Hail Creek Mine
2022 - 2023
- Operated large haul trucks for safe and efficient transportation of materials across mining site.
- Maintained situational awareness to ensure safety in high traffic, dynamic environments.
- Conducted pre-start inspections and performed basic maintenance on equipment for operational readiness.
- Collaborated with dispatch and operators to sustain consistent production flow.
Pool Bartender
Hamilton Island
2021 - 2022
- Delivered high quality bartending and customer service to resort guests in a fast-paced poolside environment.
- Ensured compliance with Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) regulations at all times.
- Managed cash handling and performed daily reconciliation accurately.
- Maintained performance standards during long shifts in challenging outdoor conditions.
- Adhered to Workplace Health & Safety (WHS) policies consistently.
- Contributed to a positive team culture within the hospitality department.
- Demonstrated excellent multi-tasking and adaptability in a dynamic team setting.
- Performed manual handling tasks, including stock rotation and restocking efficiently.
Supervisor
Zarraffa’s Coffee Sunshine Coast
2020 - 2021
- Oversaw store operations, including opening and closing procedures, while training staff on processes.
- Supported team members to deliver exceptional customer service at all times.
- Handled cash and electronic transactions, ensuring accurate money handling and reconciliation.
- Resolved customer issues and team disputes calmly and professionally.
- Demonstrated leadership during high volume periods, fostering a positive team culture.
Education
Chancellor State College
11-2019
Skills
- Real-time data monitoring
- Fleet management systems
- Emergency response protocols
- Incident response procedures
- Heavy equipment operation
- Cross department communication
- Mining operations expertise
- Production reporting
- Team leadership and collaboration
- Critical thinking and problem solving
Certification
• Dispatch 6 CMDU Training
• Standard 11 Generic Surface Induction
• Certificate III in Emergency Response and Rescue
• GRM1
• Komatsu 960E
• Terex 4400 AC and DC
• CAT 793F and D
• Certificate III in Business
• Certificate III in Fitness
• Certificate III in Hospitality
• Standard 11 Generic Surface Induction
• Certificate III in Emergency Response and Rescue
• GRM1
• Komatsu 960E
• Terex 4400 AC and DC
• CAT 793F and D
• Certificate III in Business
• Certificate III in Fitness
• Certificate III in Hospitality
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Dispatch & Operations Controller
Hail Creek Mine
2023 - Current
Haul Truck Operator / General Mining Crew
Hail Creek Mine
2022 - 2023
Pool Bartender
Hamilton Island
2021 - 2022
Supervisor
Zarraffa’s Coffee Sunshine Coast
2020 - 2021
Chancellor State College