Duncan Philbey
Connolly,Australia
Summary
Train Controller with 20+ years’ experience across BHP, Fortescue (FMG), and Rio Tinto heavy haul rail operations. Specialises in safe and efficient network control, incident response, and maintaining production continuity in high-pressure environments. Strong background in ICSS, CTC signalling, and Train Order systems, with a consistent focus on safety, performance, and teamwork.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Train Controller
Fortescue (FMG)
Perth, WA
03.2018 - 05.2026
- Manage real-time train movements across the FMG rail network supporting continuous ore haulage
- Respond to disruptions and implement recovery strategies to minimise delays and maintain production targets
- Coordinate closely with operations, maintenance, and field teams to align activities and reduce downtime
- Optimise network throughput through proactive planning and decision-making
- Maintain strict compliance with safety standards and operational procedures
- Coordinated train movements to optimize scheduling and minimize delays.
Train Controller
BHP Billiton
11.2012 - 03.2018
- Controlled high-volume train operations across ICSS, CTC, and Train Order territory
- Supported production targets by reducing delays and managing network congestion
- Maintained safe working systems including track protection and asset management
- Responded to incidents and executed effective recovery plans
- Worked collaboratively with multiple stakeholders across the network
Train Controller / Trainer
Rio Tinto
01.2009 - 01.2012
- Delivered train control operations in a heavy haul environment
- Trained and mentored controllers to improve team capability and consistency
Train Driver – Skilled Rail
Rio Tinto
01.2007 - 01.2009
- Operated heavy haul trains and conducted shunting operations in line with safety requirements
Railcar Driver / Trainer
WAGR PTA
01.2004 - 01.2007
- Operated passenger services and provided on-the-job training
Transit Guard Supervisor
WAGR PTA
01.2001 - 01.2004
- Supervised teams, coordinated shifts, and managed incidents
Education
High School Diploma -
Marist Brothers
12-1984
Skills
- Train Control (ICSS, CTC, Train Order)
- Real-Time Decision Making & Problem Solving
- Incident & Disruption Management
- Rail Scheduling & Network Optimisation
- Safety Leadership & Compliance
- Stakeholder Communication & Coordination
Timeline
Train Controller
Fortescue (FMG)
03.2018 - 05.2026
Train Controller
BHP Billiton
11.2012 - 03.2018
Train Controller / Trainer
Rio Tinto
01.2009 - 01.2012
Train Driver – Skilled Rail
Rio Tinto
01.2007 - 01.2009
Railcar Driver / Trainer
WAGR PTA
01.2004 - 01.2007
Transit Guard Supervisor
WAGR PTA
01.2001 - 01.2004
High School Diploma -
Marist Brothers