5 minutes with Bart Sykes

Bart Sykes is helping shape the future of renewable energy in the Mid-Western Region - not from afar, but from within. Based in Dubbo and with a strong family connection to our patch of NSW, Bart brings a grounded, community-first perspective to his role with Squadron Energy.

Tell us a little about yourself - where did you grow up, and what brought you to this part of the world?
I was born in Griffith but moved to Dubbo when I was still in nappies. Dad was an agronomist with the Department of Primary Industries and transferred here in the mid-80s. I did all my schooling in Dubbo, and some of my tertiary study too. I’ve left a few times for career and personal challenges, but I’ve got deep roots here - and now my own kids are at school in Dubbo. Some of the same teachers are still there!

What’s your family connection to the Mid‑Western Region?
I’m one of five boys, all raised in Dubbo. Mum and Dad still live here, as do two of my brothers. The other two are now in Newcastle. Mum started as a nurse and midwife, but retrained later in life and became a specialist in communications and succession planning.
That role took her across Australia and overseas, mostly working with farming families. My wife Alli’s family is also from the region - her mum’s from Dubbo and her Dad’s family has country north of town, now run by her brothers.

Where would we find you on a weekend - any favourite local haunts or routines?
Our office is just across the road from a great café, so I’m often spotted there. I’m also a big fan of the river track - I try to get around it a few times a week. It’s a great way to clear the head.
Can you tell us a bit about your career and how you came to work with Squadron Energy?
My background’s pretty broad. I studied social science, then went back and did further study in leadership and asset management, eventually completing a Master of Business Administration. I’ve worked in university management, most recently managing the CSU Dubbo campus, and later in operations for the NSW Rural Fire Service’s State Training Academy. I was working with the NSW Government when the opportunity to join Squadron came up - and honestly, it was one of the best decisions I’ve made.

What does a typical day look like in your role?
It’s always different - and that’s what I love about it. Some days I’m working with local businesses to make sure they’re aware of upcoming opportunities and helping them prepare to compete for work. Other days I’m collaborating with councils on infrastructure - wastewater facilities, accommodation villages, telecommunications, planning agreements - or supporting our development and procurement teams when they’re out in the Central West Orana region.

What are some standout moments in your career so far?
One would be the public-private partnership to upgrade Dubbo’s wastewater treatment plant. It’s something that will make a massive difference to the region, especially in dry seasons - saving potable water for the right uses. Another was getting the DA approved for a 400-person temporary worker accommodation village in Dubbo. That project involved strong collaboration with Council and will leave behind legacy infrastructure for future housing.
And during the pandemic, while I was at the RFS training academy, we became an emergency response centre. We hosted the Australian Defence Force and helped administer 500,000 vaccinations. That was a huge joint effort - and the team received a Commissioner’s Citation for the work we did during that time. It was intense but incredibly rewarding.

You’ve worked on projects here in the Mid-Western Region. How does it feel working on the ground in communities you’re personally connected to?
It comes with responsibility - and I take that seriously. People in the region have strong views about infrastructure projects, especially when it comes to mining, rail, or renewable energy. Some have had positive experiences, others not so much. I’m passionate about this region and I’m realistic about what’s achievable. I also believe Squadron’s values line up with mine. While not everything has been perfect, I genuinely believe the projects we’re delivering will leave a positive legacy for local communities.

Why do you think having locals involved in these projects matters?
Local knowledge is critical. So are the relationships, the lived experience, and the awareness of risks and opportunities on both sides. Being local means you can keep showing up, stay accountable, and build real trust.

What do you enjoy most about engaging with local people and businesses?
The scale of opportunity right now is incredible - I truly believe these are once-in-multiple-generation opportunities. And it’s great to be part of something that can help shape a more sustainable, prosperous future for the region.

What excites you most about the future of energy in regional NSW?
It’s the chance to do things differently. These renewable energy projects aren’t just about generating power - they’re about long-term investment in local infrastructure, skills, and innovation. We’re seeing a real shift in how communities think about energy and their role in shaping that future.
How do you strike a balance between progress and preserving what’s special about regional life?
For me, progress should feel like partnership — not disruption. When you design projects that respect the landscape, honour local heritage and deliver real benefits like jobs and community funding, then you’re doing it right. That only happens when communities are involved from the start.

What are you most excited about looking ahead?
There’s a lot coming down the pipeline - from big projects to the smaller but equally important community conversations we’re having every day. What excites me most is seeing local people and businesses take hold of these opportunities and grow with them.

And finally, if you could sum up your hopes for this region in a few words, what would they be?
Thriving together.