Service, Safety and Looking Out for Mates

Mark Underwood CSM* has spent nearly 20 years working at InfraBuild — and before that, he served for two decades in the Australian Army.

“I joined in peacetime,” he says. “The last significant conflict was Vietnam but by the time I left we had contributed significantly to peacekeeping around the world, and we were at war in the Middle East.”

In the early 1990s, Mark was deployed to Western Sahara on a peacekeeping mission. He was in his early twenties at the time and describes the experience as life changing.

“It was eye-opening. Living in north-western Africa, being exposed to the culture — it also gave me friendships I still carry today.”

After years of moving around — with overseas service and postings across Australia, it was during his final posting to Newcastle that Mark decided to leave Defence to settle in one place. A conversation at his son’s soccer game led to a role as a safety officer at InfraBuild’s wire mill.

“Coming from Defence, the mateship and care for others really stuck with me — especially in safety, where it’s about looking out for each other.”

Mark says many of the values from his Army days — leadership, integrity, respect — carry through to his work today.

“In Defence, part of being a senior soldier was caring for younger diggers — helping them grow, not just keeping them safe. That mindset really aligns with how we support people here.”

He’s proud of InfraBuild’s culture and how it welcomes veterans.

“There are so many reservists and ex-service people here. It’s always been a place where veterans are valued, and their people skills really matter.”

Reflecting on ANZAC Day, Mark says the meaning runs deep — both personally and professionally.

“My grandfather served on the Kokoda Track. When I joined the Army, he opened up and shared his story. Now I march each year in Medowie with my daughter, who wears her mum’s medals. One day, I’d love to march with my grandson too.”

Above all, Mark sees ANZAC Day as a time to remember those who are no longer here.

“I feel lucky for my service, I did not have to go to war — for me ANZAC Day is about honouring the sacrifice of those that have and do continue to serve us and to remember those that are not here to march with us. It can be a tough day, but it’s also an opportunity to come together and remind each other: stay safe, stay connected, stay with us.”

* Mark was awarded the Conspicuous Service Medal in the 2002 Queen’s Birthday Honours List.