Why the Gladstone LNG project is a 'Game Changer'

Sam Klaas is regional manager in Roma, where his family has been for more than 100 years. He has 33 years of experience in the gas fields and is the Maranoa Regional Manager.

“I am also responsible for our local relationships with the community and government, the management of irrigation and the development of our own cattle herd on Santos owned land,” he said.

“This is the most exciting project I have worked on in my career because it is a game changer for the LNG industry.

“From a career perspective it is a great opportunity to be part of something new and challenging and while many country towns in Queensland are struggling, the Roma area is booming.”

Mr Klaas said the project meant a lot to the community due to the number of jobs that have been created and the difference it has made for local businesses.

“My favourite part of this job is working with the community,” he said.

“I love the opportunities to build relationships with all parts of the community, support great local events, and provide funding for services for residents, in health, housing and transport. It is very rewarding.”

Santos has operated in the Roma region for 50 years and has built strong community relationships based on respect.

“We don’t ever take those relationships for granted and we work to maintain them every day with our local businesses, people and agriculture community,” Mr Klaas said.

“With the recent dreadful flooding, I realised how much a part of the community we really are, when our local staff were able to provide a lot of hands on help to those in serious need.

“It feels good to be able to give back to the community we operate in, and it is the right thing to do.”

While Mr Klaas is passionate about his work, he also likes to explore the area on his days off in a different way.

“I used to run and do triathlons, but I have recently started hiking and find it to be a very rewarding activity. I hope to do more of it in the future both in Australia and overseas.”