“The nerves turned into excitement and focus as soon as the hooter went.”
Simon Bayliss, foreman for Top Energy’s winning line mechanic crew at Annual Connection 2024, says with all of the team members new to Annual Connection there were plenty of nerves ahead of the competition start in Te Awamutu.
“Our team had a two-week training block prior to Annual Connection, but the planning and organising started months before. It’s fair to say the nerves were definitely there before competing because of the preparation we put into being able to perform to the highest expectations we put on ourselves.”
Though off to a slightly shaky start on Day One of competition Simon says the team pulled together well on Day Two.
“Things didn’t go our way on the first day but we reacted well to unforeseen circumstances and felt positive after Day Two, knowing we had competed well in those events.
“By Day Three we were focused on getting through the day maintaining a high standard of workmanship within the time limits without getting any obvious penalty points. There were teams that seemed very sharp so the win did come as a surprise to us, but we were super proud to accept the overall prize for Top Energy and our Northland region.”
A personal highlight for Simon was knowing his team were competing alongside other highly skilled line mechanic crews, while also being able to showcase to the wider public what working in the electrical supply industry is all about.
“There’s also a good vibe between the teams and within the industry. It was amazing to be part of it all.”
Michael Mitchell, the trainee in Top Energy’s winning line mechanic team agrees, saying the opportunity to connect with others in the industry was a highlight for him at Annual Connection.
“It’s great to meet people who share the same passion for the job. Even at a competition everyone wants to support each other and watch them succeed,” he says.
While the team training took place during the two weeks before Annual Connection, training for each individual started as soon as each team member knew they were going, by completing every day tasks.
“I was nervous because it was our first time competing, but excited for the same reason. It was something new.
“Every team brought strong competition and delivered highly on each event. It was very close on everything. I felt quite humble to be in the winning team.”
Top Energy’s top tips for Annual Connection competitors:
Simon Bayliss: “Be prepared the best you can, stay positive and consistent throughout the whole three days. Just enjoy yourself. Soak it all in.”
Michael Mitchell: Keep the energy up”. If the team’s in a good mood, the events flow easier.”
