A Career Built on Experience
When Liberty Carter (Libby) started her traineeship at the City of Sydney 10 years ago, she didn’t realise it would shape the next decade of her career.
“At the time, I was enrolled to go to uni to study education and become a music teacher. But I had this gut feeling it wasn’t the pathway for me. It felt like everyone around me was going to uni because that’s just what you did but it wasn’t what I wanted.”
While searching online for other options, Libby came across a traineeship opportunity at the City of Sydney through ArtsReady.
“I grew up in a really creative family and spent a lot of my childhood at events, so I always knew I wanted to do something in the arts or events.
“When I found the traineeship, it just made sense.”
She still remembers the moment she found out she’d been successful.
“I couldn’t believe it when I got it. My first proper day of work was actually in the same building I still work in today.”
Libby was part of the first intake of trainees at the City of Sydney and says the support she received early on made a huge difference.
“My supervisor and the team were so positive and supportive. They made sure I was really involved and not just watching from the sidelines. I always tell current trainees that everything happens how it’s supposed to. It might not feel clear at the time, but it usually works out the way it’s meant to.”
During her traineeship, Libby gained practical skills she continues to use every day.
“I learned basic office skills, but also event management systems like Momentus, which I still use here at City of Sydney. But more than anything, the traineeship gave me confidence.”
Working in such a large and diverse organisation also helped her develop strong communication and people skills.
“You’re constantly engaging with people you have just met, including externals, stakeholders and community members. Learning how to talk to all kinds of people is such an important skill in the events industry and it’s definitely helped me get to where I am today.”
Since completing her traineeship, Libby has built a career across both public and private sector events, largely through contract work. Over the past 10 years, she’s worked on major events and with organisations including the Rugby World Cup 2017, Invictus Games 2018, Venues NSW, Suncorp Group, Yakkazoo and the FIFA Fan Festival Sydney/Gadigal during the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 with IMG. She’s currently working as Harbour Manager for Sydney New Year’s Eve 2025.
“I haven’t just worked at City of Sydney for 10 years, I have worked across so many different events and organisations. Government and private events are completely different and contracting lets you experience both.”
She sees strong similarities between contract work and traineeships.
“It’s a set amount of time where you know you need to learn as much as you can and make the most of it. Contracting has given me so much flexibility. I can work really hard for a year, finish a contract, then travel or work on a passion project with the money I’ve saved.”
While contract work can be uncertain at times, Libby believes it always leads somewhere.
“It can be stressful when you’re between roles, but it always works out. Your connections are always there, especially in the events industry.”
Even during COVID, when events came to a halt, Libby found ways to keep learning.
“There were no events, so I worked in workers’ compensation for a while. I still remember a lot of the legislation and I actually use that knowledge now when I’m planning events and looking at safety.”
Looking back, Libby feels choosing a traineeship set her up in ways she couldn’t have imagined at the time.
“I was the only one of my friends who didn’t go to uni but I’ve been working since I was 18. I don’t have a HECS debt, I have savings behind me, and I’ve got 10 years of professional experience.”
She’s never had to formally apply for a role since her traineeship.
“Every opportunity I’ve had has come through word of mouth. That’s a pretty good track record for 10 years of employment.”
Now, Libby is passionate about encouraging others to consider traineeships through AFL SportsReady and partners like the City of Sydney.
“Honestly, my advice is just do it. What do you have to lose? It’s such a pivotal time in your life and you are surrounded by people who are really good at what they do and genuinely want to develop you.”
“For me, it wasn’t just a job – it was the start of everything.”
All AFL SportsReady graduates are welcome to become members of our exclusive alumni.
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