Cheryl is well prepared for the challenges the new position will offer, having held a number of senior and strategic roles with the Federal Government and also working as a journalist in print, radio and television.

Most recently she served as Chief of Staff to Agriculture Minister Warren Truss. In 1996 and 1997 she served as Media Adviser to then Industry Minister, John Moore.

Ms Cartwright’s media career spanned organisations including the Nine and Seven television networks, The Australian, Australian Associated Press and Macquarie Radio Network.

A former colleague said of her, “She doesn’t hang round waiting for things to happen. During the winter break in her final year of university, she door-knocked in the Press Gallery at Parliament House and ended up with a job at The Weekly Times. That job led her to working for The Australian in the Press Gallery for the rest of that year while she finished her degree. She certainly enjoys a challenge.”

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APIA President Mark Twycross said the Association was reviewing its strategy and direction in the broad range of policy issues which affect the pipeline industry, following a decade of unprecedented change in the pipeline and associated industries.

“We have now moved to a period of policy development and consolidation which will impact on owners of energy infrastructure and the community for years to come. It is vital that APIA maintains a strong voice in the policy debate, and Ms Cartwright’s skills and background are great strengths in that regard. Her ability to grasp and debate complex issues has impressed us,” said Mr Twycross.

Cheryl took up her new position with APIA on March 7, and The Australian Pipeliner spoke with her about her future in the pipeline industry.

TAP: What do you think you will bring to the pipeline industry in Australia?

CC: “With such a skills base, my appointment was clearly a strategic decision by the board. The Board, and Allen Beasley, believed it was time for “phase two” of the Association’s development. We have a strong and active organisation, well respected amongst members and related industries, and it’s time to go a step further so that Government has greater respect for, and the general public has greater knowledge of this important industry.”

TAP: What are some of the issues you will look to raise while at the helm of APIA?

CC: “Clearly the general public is blissfully unaware of the pipelines that keep their lifestyles humming along. While this might seem reasonable and certainly not a problem as our pipelines are safe and well-managed, perhaps, if the public was more aware, politicians might also be more aware of the critical role this industry plays in the national economic fortunes.”

TAP: How has your background in politics prepared you for your new role as APIA Chief Executive?

CC: “The skills I developed while working in politics include leadership; providing strategic direction for the Minister, his Department and his portfolio; supervision of policy development; liaison with Members, Senators and the public; and a solid understanding of media and public relations.”