Ever wondered what life is like on a FIFO (Fly-In Fly-Out) project? Well, let me give you a very condensed version of some of the experiences you may have, especially if you’re a woman in a predominantly male camp. Picture this: you’re out on site, surrounded by blokes 70-80% of the time. Some are absolute legends, while others… well, let’s just say they add a bit of “character” to the camp.
The Camps: A Mixed Bag
Not all camps are created equal. Some are pristine, with easy access to amenities and a great bunch of people. Others, however, can be a bit of a nightmare. Imagine trying to get a phone signal by walking around in circles in a paddock, just to talk to your family. And let’s not forget the camp food – delicious and dangerously abundant, especially the desserts. Sure, the food choices have gotten healthier, but it’s the quantity that’s the real issue. You will go through all of the stages of grief and (most) of you will reach the ‘acceptance’ that you will put on some kgs due to the food.
Gym Life: FIFO Edition
Camps do provide gyms, but some are limited in space and equipment. Picture this: up at 4:30 AM, trying to get their workout in because by the time you get back from work, every piece of equipment is occupied. While other camps do have the space (no need for 4:30am starts) and have a basketball court. Outdoor exercise is an option, depending on the camp’s location. One camp I stayed at had an amazing outdoor barbecue kitchen and bonfire area. Every weekend, we’d gather around the bonfire, have a drink, and share some laughs – it was like a mini-vacation.
The Loneliness Factor
Yes, camp life can get lonely. You’re confined to a small room with a bed, a desk, and a bathroom. If you’re lucky, you might get a couch. The idea is to work hard and come home to a decent uplift and a working away from home allowance, which makes it all worthwhile. I spent three years in a FIFO role, and it was an amazing opportunity to save money – enough to buy a house!
The Downside: Germs and USBs
One downside of camp life is that when one person gets sick, the whole camp soon follows. On the flip side, if someone has a USB full of movies and TV shows, it gets shared around pretty quickly. Sharing is caring, right?
Family Time: FIFO vs. 5/2
Interestingly, many FIFO workers with young kids prefer this lifestyle over a regular 5/2 job. They get to spend more quality time with their kids during their weeks off, rather than just brief moments in the morning and evening during a regular workweek. But again, it all depends on individual preferences and how you want to balance work and family life.
Exploring the Middle of Nowhere
When working remotely and staying in a camp, you might feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere. But you’d be surprised at what’s actually around. I highly recommend checking out your local surroundings – you never know what hidden gems you might find!
So, there you have it – life on a FIFO project is a mix of highs and lows, with plenty of humour sprinkled in. Whether it’s the camaraderie around the bonfire or the battle for gym equipment, it’s an experience like no other.