Our Team.

Ben Hinze, Principal Acoustic Engineer at Virid IFC, brings over 25 years of experience in environmental and transport infrastructure studies. Specializing in environmental data mapping and acoustics for major projects, Ben has led noise and vibration assessments for significant infrastructure upgrades such as the M1 Pacific Motorway and Bruce Highway. His expertise extends to city noise mapping and the development of state-controlled road and rail noise maps. Ben holds a Master's in Acoustics and Noise Control and a Master's in GIS, along with certifications including RPEQ and CPEng. Proficient in noise prediction suites like SoundPLAN and CadnaA, Ben is adept at developing noise mitigation strategies and has contributed to projects like the Coomera Connector and the Ambient National Noise Map. With a strong track record of leadership and technical expertise, Ben is a valuable asset in managing and delivering complex projects.

Craig Thamm, Director/Principal HSE Consultant at Virid IFC, is a seasoned professional with 29 years of experience in HSE, project management, and environmental consulting. With a diverse background spanning civil construction, mining, public service, and not-for-profit sectors, Craig brings a wealth of expertise in environmental and safety management, regulatory affairs, and community engagement. His project experience includes key roles in major infrastructure projects such as the M1M3 Gateway Merge and water infrastructure projects like the Lake Macdonald Dam Improvement Project. Craig's qualifications include a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Environmental Engineering from Griffith University, complemented by certifications in OH&S and training and assessment. He is also a member of several professional bodies, including the Institution of Engineers, Australia, and the Infrastructure Sustainability Council of Australia. With a proven track record of delivering projects with safety and sustainability in mind, Craig is well-equipped to manage diverse project needs and contribute to the success of any project.

Mathew Cosgrove, Director and Principal Environmental Consultant at Virid IFC, possesses over 19 years of experience in project management and environmental expertise. He has played integral roles in diverse construction projects across industries like mining, civil construction, renewable energy, and transportation. Mathew's expertise includes environmental systems development, land liaison management, and securing environmental approvals. He has excelled in roles such as Approvals Superintendent and Environmental Manager, overseeing critical aspects of design, approvals, and construction, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and upholding the highest standards of environmental responsibility. Mathew's leadership, meticulous approach, and commitment to sustainability consistently drive successful outcomes in complex projects, making him a highly valued professional in the field.

Shannon Kratzmann, Director of ViridAU, is a seasoned project management professional with expertise in quality assurance and contract management. With extensive experience in various projects, including Carmichael Rail Network, Kingsford Smith Drive, Gateway Upgrade North, and The Northern Road Upgrade, Shannon has demonstrated her ability to deliver successful outcomes while ensuring compliance with project requirements and regulations. With 15 years of industry experience and qualifications in environmental science, communications, and project management, Shannon possesses key skills in project management, stakeholder engagement, contracts management, regulatory approvals, and quality management, making her a valuable asset to any project team.

Abhi Aitharaju, Principal Engineer specialising in Air Quality & Sustainability, brings 15 years of industry experience and a robust academic background in engineering. As a member of the Clean Air Society of Australia and New Zealand (CASANZ), Abhi possesses a diverse skill set, including emission estimation, dispersion modeling, ambient air quality monitoring, and project management. His expertise extends across various industries, where he has conducted impact assessments for significant development projects, infrastructure upgrades, and industrial operations. At ViridAU, Abhi leads the Air Quality & Sustainability business unit, overseeing a team of consultants dedicated to delivering high-quality technical reports within budget and timelines. His hands-on experience includes field studies, community consultation, and designing monitoring programs. Abhi's project list showcases his proficiency in assessing air quality and odour impacts across a wide range of facilities, from bioenergy plants to service stations and abattoirs, demonstrating his commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.

Meghana Shivakumar, an Environmental/Air Quality & Sustainability Consultant at Virid AU, brings over 2 years of industry experience and a strong academic background in environmental engineering. As a member of the Clean Air Society of Australia and New Zealand (CASANZ), Meghana possesses expertise in emission estimation, dispersion modeling, and ambient air quality monitoring. She has contributed significantly to air quality impact assessments, odour management, and carbon accounting for various industries, including resource extraction, food production, and waste management. Meghana's proficiency in dispersion models like AERMOD and CALPUFF has been instrumental in assessing impacts from industrial activities and infrastructure projects. Her project experience spans across a diverse range, from bioenergy facilities to quarry expansions, demonstrating her versatility and commitment to environmental stewardship. Meghana's proactive approach, coupled with her technical skills, ensures the delivery of comprehensive assessments and sustainable solutions for clients at Virid AU.

Sayli Katewale, an adept Air Quality & Sustainability Consultant, brings over 2 years of experience and a Master's in Environmental Engineering from Griffith University. Proficient in dispersion modeling, emission estimation, and odor impact assessments, Sayli is dedicated to ensuring environmental compliance and sustainability. As a member of both CASANZ and NAWIC, she exemplifies her commitment to professional excellence and gender diversity in the industry. Sayli's expertise extends to various projects, including assessing the impacts of poultry farms and service stations, demonstrating her versatility and proactive approach to environmental management. Currently, she oversees deposited dust monitoring at quarry operations, showcasing her proactive stance in ensuring environmental sustainability and regulatory compliance.

Robert holds a distinguished position as a Principal in Technical Services at ViridAU, where he brings over 15 years of rich experience in various sectors such as road infrastructure, commercial ventures, and construction projects. His journey in the field began as a Senior Engineer, where he honed his skills and gained valuable insights into the intricacies of engineering. As a certified engineer with RPEQ accreditation, Robert has consistently demonstrated exemplary leadership qualities, guiding teams through complex projects with finesse and expertise. His tenure at ViridAU has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence, driving innovation, and upholding the highest standards of quality and professionalism. Through his strategic vision and meticulous attention to detail, Robert has played a pivotal role in delivering successful outcomes for clients while cementing ViridAU's reputation as a leader in the industry.

Robert holds a distinguished position as a Principal in Technical Services at ViridAU, where he brings over 15 years of rich experience in various sectors such as road infrastructure, commercial ventures, and construction projects. His journey in the field began as a Senior Engineer, where he honed his skills and gained valuable insights into the intricacies of engineering. As a certified engineer with RPEQ accreditation, Robert has consistently demonstrated exemplary leadership qualities, guiding teams through complex projects with finesse and expertise. His tenure at ViridAU has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence, driving innovation, and upholding the highest standards of quality and professionalism. Through his strategic vision and meticulous attention to detail, Robert has played a pivotal role in delivering successful outcomes for clients while cementing ViridAU's reputation as a leader in the industry.

Hilton Netterville boasts over 30 years of diverse experience in construction, design management, and operations across major infrastructure projects. Currently serving as Principal Consultant at Virid IFC and CEO of Engineering and Operations at Renewable Developments Australia, Hilton has led pivotal roles in significant projects such as the Baralaba Coal Haul Route Upgrade and Gateway Upgrade Project. With qualifications in Civil Engineering and recognition from the Board of Professional Engineers Queensland, Hilton's expertise spans bid management, project planning, design coordination, and regulatory compliance, ensuring successful project execution and industry advancement.

Col Schiller, a Partner Consultant at ViridAU,, boasts over 30 years of expertise in land management, nutrient management, and land rehabilitation across diverse sectors such as agriculture, urban development, and mining. With roles spanning from Director at Walshs Seeds Pty Ltd to Rehabilitation Specialist at QGC/Shell, Col has led numerous projects globally, including major initiatives like the Brisbane Airport Runway Two project and the Carmichael Rail Project for Adani Coal. His contributions extend to soil testing, erosion control, and rehabilitation consultancy for mining sites in India, the Philippines, and Malaysia, as well as auditing for highway upgrades and gas plant projects. Col's broad experience and commitment to environmental stewardship make him an invaluable asset in enhancing land management practices and driving sustainable outcomes.

Jenny Butler, an Environmental Manager at ViridAU, boasts over 20 years of industry experience, specializing in crafting and implementing strategic environmental controls for major infrastructure projects. Armed with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies from James Cook University, Jenny has overseen various projects, including the Deception Bay Interchange and the Kingsford Smith Drive. Her responsibilities have ranged from managing environmental plans and approvals to liaising with stakeholders and regulators. Notable achievements include leading teams to receive prestigious awards for environmental excellence and ensuring project success without environmental incidents. Jenny's skill set includes civil construction environmental management, ISO 14001 application, environmental auditing, compliance monitoring, and proactive stakeholder relations, making her an indispensable asset in achieving sustainable outcomes in diverse project environments.

Micky is an Environmental Engineer with over 3 years of experience, primarily in transport infrastructure projects, Geographical Information Systems (GIS), and UAV operations. He specializes in environmental monitoring, noise mapping, erosion and sediment control mapping, and equipment management. Micky holds a Master of Environmental Management from the University of Queensland and a Remote Pilot’s License (RePL). His expertise includes managing environmental data mapping, conducting environmental impact assessments, and implementing erosion and sediment control strategies. Micky has contributed to various projects such as the Cunninghams Gap Rehabilitation Project, Kangaroo Point Green Bridge construction, and Gold Coast Light Rail Project, providing valuable support in environmental monitoring, GIS management, and data analysis. With his skills in GIS, environmental monitoring, and UAV operations, Micky ensures the successful implementation of environmental controls and compliance with regulatory requirements across infrastructure projects.

Wei Tang is the Chief Remote Pilot and GIS Lead at ViridAU, overseeing all aspects of GIS and remote sensing services. With over 4 years of industry experience, Wei holds a Master's degree in Geographic Information Science from the University of Queensland. His expertise lies in spatial data management, mapping, and visualisation, supported by proficiency in GIS packages such as ArcMap, ArcGIS Pro, and QGIS. Wei's role involves designing and implementing processes for terrain dataset development, essential for noise models, as seen in the Transport Noise Corridors Update project for TMR. He has also led the GIS aspect of projects like the Cairns Western Arterial Road Upgrade and the Kangaroo Point Green Bridge construction. Wei's contributions extend to major infrastructure projects, including the Coomera Connector and Capricorn Highway Upgrade, where he has conducted acoustic and air quality studies. As a licensed drone pilot, Wei operates advanced equipment for data capture and processing, enhancing Virid's projects in GIS and remote sensing.

Nicholas Netterville, a graduate from Queensland University of Technology with a Bachelor of Design in Industrial Design, brings a unique blend of spatial mapping, acoustics, and drone operations to his role at ViridAU. With over a year of industry experience, Nicholas holds a Remote Pilot's License (RePL) and is proficient in noise impact assessments, noise mapping, and geographical information systems. Prior to joining ViridAU, he worked at Renewable Developments Australia (RDA), focusing on renewable developments in Queensland, where he gained expertise in drone mapping, photogrammetry, 3D modeling, and report writing. Although new to consulting, Nicholas's experience in drone operations and spatial mapping complements his role at ViridAU, where he contributes to projects such as the Ensham Life of Mine Extension Project and the Old Coach Road Upgrade Stage 2. His skills in noise monitoring and assessment are evident in projects like the Road Traffic Noise Management Strategy 2020 and the Cairns Western Arterial Road Upgrade, where he led acoustic design teams and contributed to detailed reports and consultations with clients and stakeholders. Through his involvement in various projects over the past three years, Nicholas has demonstrated his capability to deliver high-quality work and contribute effectively to acoustic engineering projects.

Caellum, currently an undergraduate and GIS UAC at ViridAU, brings a fresh perspective and enthusiasm to the team. Despite being in the early stages of his career, Caellum demonstrates a strong aptitude for geographical information systems (GIS) and is eager to expand his knowledge and skills in this field. His role involves assisting with spatial data management, map production, and GIS analysis, contributing to various projects aimed at environmental monitoring and assessment. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for technology, Caellum is committed to learning and adapting to new challenges in the dynamic world of GIS. Through his dedication and willingness to learn, Caellum plays a valuable role in supporting the team's objectives and delivering high-quality outcomes for ViridAU's clients.

As the Operations Manager at ViridAU, Rick Gardiner is a seasoned construction professional with over 15 years of industry experience. His expertise spans a diverse range of projects, with a particular emphasis on HVAC, mechanical, and refrigeration engineering. Rick's deep passion for the industry and unwavering commitment to excellence have garnered him widespread respect among peers and clients. Renowned for his dedication to each project he undertakes, Rick is a sought-after expert known for delivering results with unparalleled professionalism. With Rick leading the way, you can trust that your project will be executed to the highest standards, ensuring success at every step of the process.

Cleo excels as a Compliance Technical Officer at ArdentAU, where she ensures adherence to industry regulations and standards. Her role involves overseeing compliance processes, conducting audits, and implementing corrective measures to maintain regulatory compliance. Cleo's attention to detail and analytical mindset are instrumental in identifying potential risks and developing strategies to mitigate them effectively. Her dedication to upholding compliance standards makes her an invaluable asset to the ArdentAU team. Cleo has extensive experience across various industries and roles, showcasing adaptability and strong organisational, communication, and problem-solving skills. Her background includes positions such as Senior Advisor at ArdentAU, Document Controller at Pensar, and Operations Officer at Dyno Nobel. Cleo's versatile expertise makes her a valuable asset in any professional setting, contributing to success and innovation.

Chloe is a dedicated professional with a strong commitment to technical compliance. As an Officer of Technical Compliance at ViridAu, she ensures that all regulatory requirements are met with precision and efficiency. Additionally, Chloe is an active member of the National Association of Women in Construction, demonstrating her support for gender diversity and empowerment in the industry. With a keen focus on contract law, Chloe continually enhances her skills and knowledge, making her a valuable asset to her organization and the construction community as a whole.

As an Advisor at ViridAU, Chloe brings a wealth of technical expertise and a keen eye for compliance matters. Her extensive background in risk assessment, quality control, and project management provides invaluable insights into navigating complex regulatory landscapes. Chloe's ability to lead inspections, audits, and educational initiatives showcases her dedication to ensuring compliance and maintaining high standards within the organization. With her exceptional analytical skills and attention to detail, Chloe is a trusted advisor who can provide valuable guidance on technical matters while keeping a sharp focus on compliance requirements.