Celebrating 25 years of Tom Bernard at RLB

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  • Celebrating 25 years of Tom Bernard at RLB
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John Drillis

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This year marks a major milestone for Tom Bernard: 25 years since he joined RLB in South Australia.

What began as a cadetship in 2000 has grown into a career marked by deep technical expertise, enduring client partnerships and a lasting contribution to the way we plan and deliver projects across the state.

Tom has played a central role in some of South Australia’s most significant developments, including the Flinders Medical Centre redevelopment, Adelaide Botanic High School, the Churchill Shopping Centre precinct, SkyCity EOS, the Adelaide Zoo Panda and Entry Precinct and UniSA’s Jeffrey Smart Building.

Recently, Tom was invited to advise the History Trust of South Australia on the restoration of the original Priscilla, Queen of the Desert bus, a reminder that meaningful work happens at all scales, and that RLB’s project reach is broader than many realise.

Tom’s influence extends beyond individual projects. He has shaped how we work, leading with clarity, supporting his team and creating room for others to grow. In a fast-moving industry, his calm presence and considered judgement have remained a constant.

John Drillis shares:
“When you’re in a room with Tom, the conversation sharpens not because he’s loud, but because he listens carefully, weighs things up and then speaks with absolute clarity. That kind of steadiness is rare and deeply respected.”

At RLB, progress comes from doing the right things, the right way. Tom’s 25 years with us are a powerful example of that belief in action.