Team

Adeel Ashraf

Senior Project Manager

Adeel is a seasoned Senior Project Management Professional with over 14 years of experience delivering complex infrastructure programs valued at over $700 million across water, wastewater, utilities, and civil sectors for major clients, contractors, and consultancies. His expertise spans the full project lifecycle from feasibility, concept development, and planning through to design management, procurement, delivery and commissioning. 

Throughout his career, Adeel has successfully led and contributed to major capital works and greenfield/brownfield upgrade projects, including water and wastewater treatment plant augmentations, rising mains, drainage networks, process optimization works and major road upgrades. He is highly regarded for his ability to coordinate multidisciplinary teams, integrate design and delivery functions, and achieve efficient, risk-aware outcomes that meet scope, time, and budget expectations. 

With a strong grounding in project governance, contract management, stakeholder engagement and risk mitigation, Adeel brings both technical insight and commercial acumen to every assignment. He has extensive experience engaging with state government utilities, local authorities and private sector service providers, ensuring alignment between client objectives and delivery partner capabilities. 

Adeel’s technical proficiency includes MS Project Online, Primavera P6, Maximo, PowerBI and TechOne with demonstrated expertise in project management, cost estimation, asset management and change management. He is known for his structured management style, collaborative leadership and focus on driving accountability and quality across all stages of the project lifecycle. 

Outside of work, Adeel enjoys organising community sports events, playing cricket, exploring new hiking trails and capturing landscapes through photography, pursuits that reflect his energy, coordination, and eye for detail. 

Want to get in touch with Adeel? adeel.ashraf@touchprojects.com.au 

Ahsan Ashraf

Senior Project Scheduler, Forensic Program Analyst

Ahsan is a specialist forensic delay analyst and project scheduler with over 17 years’ experience in the construction industry. He holds a BSc in Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Construction Law and is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (FCIArb) and a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). He is also an RICS Certified Expert Witness and a member of the Society of Construction Law, Australia.

His primary focus is advising clients on matters of delay and disruption. He has assisted in the preparation of multiple Extension of Time submissions and has assessed numerous EOT claims for principals and contractors. He applies Society of Construction Law–recognised methodologies, including Time Impact Analysis, Impacted As Planned, As Planned vs As Built (Windows), Collapsed As Built, and Time Slice/Window Analysis to develop evidence-based, legally defensible programme narratives and quantum assessments.

Ahsan places strong emphasis on establishing clear cause-and-effect relationships between events and measured delay. He traces causal chains from contemporaneous notices, site records, and supplier events through programme logic to net critical path impact, quantifies entitlement using CPM reconstructions and sensitivity testing, and demonstrates proximate causation and delay responsibility suitable for contractual determinations.

Technically, Ahsan performs critical path analysis, CPM reconstructions, and audit-grade contemporaneous record reviews, and uses earned value management, probabilistic schedule risk analysis, and Monte Carlo simulation to test schedule sensitivity and quantify delay risk. He is proficient in Primavera P6, Oracle P6 EPPM, Microsoft Project, Asta Powerproject, and Safran Risk Analysis, and has project experience across Australia, the Middle East, and Asia in LNG, process, and infrastructure sectors.

Ahsan also provides programme and project scheduling support, preparing, updating, and reporting live construction schedules and producing tender programmes. He has multijurisdictional familiarity with Australian standard forms such as AS 2124 and AS 4300, together with NEC and FIDIC family contracts and local statutory adjudication processes. He combines technical schedule analytics with contractual and legal insight to deliver pragmatic recovery strategies, robust written advice, and concise reports aimed at resolving schedule disputes efficiently.

Outside work, Ahsan has a growing family and spends weekends on swimming lessons and regional trips throughout Victoria.

Want to get in touch with Ashan? ahsan.ashraf@touchprojects.com.au

Alex Savvas

Construction Management Undergraduate

Alex is currently studying Construction Management at Swinburne University of Technology and is gaining early industry exposure. He’s interested in learning more about project delivery and contributing to practical outcomes on site and in the office. 

Outside of work, Alex enjoys having a run around for his local footy club, camping and exploring at various places around Victoria. He also likes four-wheel driving in his Land Cruiser which can take him anywhere. Alex is an active member of his Church in North Melbourne, where he's been attending since young. 

Want to get in touch with Alex? alex.savvas@touchprojects.com.au 

Ali Arain

Senior Project Manager

Ali Arain is a Chartered Civil Engineer and Project Manager with over 14 years’ experience delivering complex water and utilities projects. He specialises in project management, design and construction management, asset performance, and contract oversight, consistently applying quality and safety standards to deliver reliable outcomes.

Ali has worked with leading organisations including Stantec, SMEC, Cardno, and TasWater, managing multi-million-dollar infrastructure projects such as water main renewals, sewer upgrades, and water/wastewater treatment works.

He is a Chartered Project Manager and Registered Professional Engineer in Victoria (RPEV). Outside of work,

Ali:

• enjoys spending time with family and friends

• enjoys playing Cricket and Golf

• enjoys travelling and following the Geelong Cats Football Club

Want to get in touch with Ali? ali.arain@touchprojects.com.au

Ali Yekenkurul

Senior Project Manager

Ali has a building/project management background having initially worked for construction companies both in Australia and overseas on the contractor side and for the past 20 years on the client side as a Client-Side Project Manager.

Ali has successfully demonstrated his project management skills – planning, organising, controlling, leading - in the delivery of capital projects within a complex facilities/capital projects/buildings and assets department and has been directly involved in end-to-end project management at all stages of the Project Life Cycle – Initiation, Planning and Design, Procurement, Construction and Handover.

He is an effective team member and is experienced in leading projects and project teams. Ali has managed a diverse range of capital building/infrastructure projects for various clients that include local government projects such as leisure centre redevelopment and community/pavilion buildings and extensions; state government projects such as court room refurbishments and fire stations and university/education projects such as lecture theatre upgrades and new innovative education buildings.

Outside work you will most likely find Ali tinkering away on woodworking projects (coffee tables, chopping boards) at home and he loves watching and playing football – the world game (as far as his legs can take him). He is also known to randomly bring in Turkish sweets for the team and has even brought in his own ‘cezve’ to brew only the best coffee – Turkish coffee.

Want to get in touch with Ali? ali.yekenkurul@touchprojects.com.au

Amanda Vaughan

Senior/Lead Document Controller

Amanda is an experienced Document Control and Project Coordination professional with more than 15 years’ experience across major Victorian transport and infrastructure projects. She has supported both government and private sector organisations, contributing to the successful delivery of complex, multi-stakeholder programs.

Her background includes extensive involvement in major rail initiatives such as Regional Fast Rail, the Craigieburn Project, Laverton Rail Upgrade, Sunbury Electrification, Regional Rail Link, and the Level Crossing Removal Project. Across these roles, Amanda has supported large project teams, providing documentation leadership to groups of more than 150 staff.

Amanda’s strengths include the development, implementation and maintenance of document management systems, with hands-on expertise across TeamBinder, Aconex, TRIM and SharePoint. She is known for her positive, self-motivated approach, strong attention to detail, and ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Her experience spans roles in Document Control, Document Control Management and Project Coordination, including positions at Metro Trains Melbourne, the Department of Transport and Planning, and Thiess. Amanda holds a Diploma in Project Management from the Australian Institute of Management and a Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality Operations from Victoria University.

Outside of work, Amanda enjoys long walks exploring nature and has a keen interest in health and wellbeing.

Want to get in touch with Amanda about your next project? amanda.vaughan@touchprojects.com.au

Andrew Andreotti

Project Manager

Andrew Andreotti is a highly experienced infrastructure professional with extensive experience leading complex, early phase capital infrastructure programs within regulated public-sector and asset intensive environments. His career spans local government and state aligned agencies, where he has been responsible for progressing infrastructure initiatives from problem definition and feasibility through concept and functional design, governance approval and transition to delivery teams.

Andrew brings particular strength in program level coordination, early planning discipline, and multidisciplinary integration across electrical, mechanical and civil domains. He has worked closely with asset managers, operations teams, planners and engineering specialists to ensure projects are clearly defined, strategically aligned, technically feasible, and positioned for downstream delivery before detailed design and construction.

Known for his calm, structured and doctrine-based approach, Andrew excels in environments requiring strong governance, stakeholder alignment, and defensible decision making. He is comfortable operating at the interface between engineering, asset management, operations and executive decision makers, ensuring complex technical inputs are translated into clear scopes

Andrew holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) from Swinburne University of Technology and a Graduate Diploma of Education from RMIT University.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys staying active, coastal walks, travelling, and following the Brisbane Lions Football Club. He also enjoys spending time with family and friends.

Want to get in touch with Andrew? andrew.andreotti@touchprojects.com.au

Andy McMahon

Senior Project Manager

Andy McMahon is a highly experienced project and construction manager with a strong background in trenchless technologies, including horizontal directional drilling (HDD), micro tunnelling, and pipeline delivery. With over two decades of experience across Australia, he has successfully led civil infrastructure projects from the ground up—spanning planning, delivery, and operational handover. 

Andy is known for his practical leadership style, technical depth, and unwavering focus on safety and collaboration. His approach to project management is grounded in clear communication, proactive problem-solving, and fostering productive relationships across client and contractor teams. His industry knowledge includes major works in the utilities and water sectors, often requiring complex constructability planning and risk mitigation. 

Having held senior roles across both private enterprises and joint ventures, Andy combines business acumen with hands-on site experience to consistently deliver on time and within budget. He is especially passionate about building strong project teams and driving performance in demanding site environments. 

Outside of work, Andy enjoys catching up with family & friends, playing drums & guitar with other musicians & architecture. 

Want to get in touch with Andy? andy.mcmahon@touchprojects.com.au 

Angela Christou

Finance Manager

Angela has over 20 years’ experience in accounts and financial management having extensively worked across both private and public sectors.

Having completed a Bachelor of Commerce degree with Majors in Accounting & Marketing, Angela brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to the team. She manages the accounts and payroll function for Touch Projects.

Outside work Angela is a full-time mum of two teenage kids. Her spare time is often taken up cooking various gourmet dishes and baking delicious sweets… it's no secret that the family is spoilt with the many choices.

Want to get in touch with Angela? angela.christou@touchprojects.com.au

Astrid Hartono

Senior Project Manager

Astrid Hartono is a highly experienced infrastructure and project delivery professional with over 20 years’ experience in the utilities and government sectors, with a strong focus on the water industry and a recent role in local government. Her background spans asset management, maintenance, project development, business case preparation, delivery and superintendent services.

With a degree in Chemical Engineering and Business Administration from RMIT University, Astrid brings a strong technical foundation paired with a strategic and people-focused leadership style. She has led multidisciplinary teams and played a key role in uplifting team performance and driving successful business transformation initiatives. Her experience includes leading the integration of new information systems and supporting organisation-wide change programs.

Astrid has held senior roles at organisations such as Hume City Council, Greater Western Water, and Yarra Valley Water. She is passionate about delivering projects that provide lasting value to the community and is known for her collaborative, outcome-driven approach.

Outside of work, Astrid enjoys spending time with her three children, who keep her busy and entertained with their extracurricular activities.

Want to get in touch with Astrid? astrid.hartono@touchprojects.com.au

Athena Savvas

Client Relations Manager

Athena brings a rich and diverse skill set to the Touch Projects team, thanks to her background in Psychology and Travel and Tourism. Her professional journey coupled with her caring nature has equipped her with a unique perspective and a versatile approach to leadership. 

Outside of work, Athena is a dedicated mother of three, managing the demands of both her family and household with the same commitment and attention to detail she brings to her professional role. This balancing act demonstrates her strong organisational skills and multitasking abilities. 

Athena is well-loved by the team for her blend of humour, extensive experience, and meticulous nature. Her presence adds a vibrant and dynamic element to the workplace. 

Want to get in touch with Athena? athena.savvas@touchprojects.com.au

Binaya Malla

Senior Project Manager

Binaya is a dedicated Civil Engineer with extensive experience in road and transportation infrastructure across both private and government sectors. His career spans roles in project engineering, design, and technical permit leadership, where he has consistently delivered high-quality outcomes in complex urban environments. 

Binaya has led initiatives that prioritise infrastructure upgrades, safety compliance, and community-focused solutions. His previous roles at Winslow, MIEPOL, and Moonee Valley Council have equipped him with a strong foundation in civil works inspection, site safety, and traffic management planning. 

His strengths lie in project management, stakeholder coordination, and technical oversight. He is passionate about improving community infrastructure and enhancing worksite safety through innovative engineering practices. Binaya is also actively pursuing Chartered Engineer certification, reflecting his commitment to professional growth and excellence. 

He holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Civil Engineering from Victoria University and is certified in multiple areas including Work Zone Traffic Management, Site Environmental Management, and First Aid. 

Outside of work, Binaya enjoys playing basketball and following the NBA, as well as watching documentaries and fictional movies. 

Want to get in touch with Binaya? binaya.malla@touchprojects.com.au 

Bob Bocevski

Head of Operations / Advisory Board Member

Bob is an accomplished Head of Operations and experienced Business Leader with over 25 years of project experience throughout Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand.

A qualified engineer by profession, he has delivered many projects for state government bodies and related agencies in excess of $100m. His considerable project experience with the likes of VicTrack, Dept of Transport (Vic), VicRoads, and the TAC has underpinned his career development.

In his role as Head of Operations, he has led the development and implementation of significant construction programs and is proficient in asset and Governance management within the finance, government and building industry. He is also highly experienced in production, continuous Improvement disciplines, quality assurance, interface/stakeholder management, and business development.

His considerable construction experience extends to his time with Groupcon, where he delivered a large number of residential apartment developments, hotel refurbishments, and other commercial builds.

Outside of work, Bob is busy spending time with his family. He is also an avid fly fisherman and really enjoys fishing for Freshwater Trout and Murray Cod. A passionate Ford enthusiast at heart, Bob always has a restoration project underway.

Want to get in touch with Bob? bob.bocevski@touchprojects.com.au

Bob Milic

Senior Project Manager

Bob Milic is a highly experienced Project Manager with over 25 years’ experience delivering complex civil and building infrastructure projects across government and local council sectors. He has a strong track record of leading major projects from concept through to completion, consistently delivering on time, within budget, and to a high standard.

Bob brings deep expertise in construction management, contract administration, and design management, with extensive experience acting as Superintendent across a range of contract types. He is known for his practical approach, strong technical capability, and ability to manage complex stakeholder environments while maintaining focus on project outcomes.

He has delivered major infrastructure and community projects with organisations including the Department of Transport and Planning, City of Whittlesea, Port of Melbourne Corporation, and VicRoads, covering road infrastructure, civic facilities, and large-scale capital works programs.

Bob holds a Master’s Degree in Engineering (Project Management) from Victoria University and is a registered Professional Engineer (RPEV) and member of Engineers Australia (NER).

Outside of work, Bob:

· Enjoys fishing for Murray cod with his son

· Loves taking his V8 Ford Mustang out for a drive

· Keeps active with an hour-long walk every evening after dinner

· Enjoys hosting relaxed get-togethers — especially a pig on the spit with a couple of cold beers

Want to get in touch with Bob? bob.milic@touchprojects.com.au

Charles Floodgate

Senior Project Manager

Charles Floodgate brings over 30 years of experience in the design, management, and delivery of complex infrastructure projects across Australia, the United Kingdom, the UAE, and Singapore. His career spans the public and private sectors, with expertise in multidisciplinary works including water and wastewater treatment plants, marine infrastructure, pipelines, land reclamation, and coastal protection.

Known for his methodical approach and commitment to high standards, Charles has successfully led the delivery of major projects from concept through to construction. His strengths lie in stakeholder engagement, contract management, and risk-based project planning, and he is recognised for fostering collaborative project environments and inclusive teams.

Charles holds Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) status and is registered under the National and International Engineering Registers. His deep understanding of water authority systems and Victorian infrastructure frameworks enhances his ability to deliver high-quality outcomes that meet both technical and community needs.

Outside of work, Charles enjoys cycling around Melbourne, usually managing 30-40km each trip, exploring around Australia and, when he has the time, hiking in the Grampians & Yarra Ranges.

Want to get in touch with Charles? charles.floodgate@touchprojects.com.au

Colin Young

Strategic Advisor, Energy & Renewables

Colin Young is an Industry Adviser with over 40 years’ experience managing power station assets and delivering high-value engineering outcomes across Victoria’s energy sector.

Colin brings extensive expertise in engineering management, plant maintenance, project delivery and risk management, with a strong track record in strategic planning, capital works, major outages and asset performance projects. He has also acted as a General Manager, implementing standardised “whole-of-life” asset maintenance systems and leading large multidisciplinary teams.

Throughout his career, Colin has been recognised with multiple Victorian Engineering Excellence awards for project management, engineering design and safety innovation. He has also held several registered engineering design patents and represented the Australian Government in the energy industry.

Colin holds a Master of Engineering from Monash University, an MBA in Technology Management from Deakin University, and a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering from Victoria University.

Outside of work, Colin enjoys staying active on his rural property, playing guitar, motorcycling, and travel

Want to get in touch with Colin? colin.young@touchprojects.com.au

Demos Michalopoulos

Senior Traffic & Transport Consultant

Demos Michalopoulos is an experienced Traffic & Transport Engineer with considerable experience in this sector. He has previously advised government departments for major events such as the Athens Olympics, 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games, Australian Open Tennis, Formula One Grand Prix and many other large and small special events.

He is acutely aware of all the moving parts on any road related project or initiative and has a solid understanding of Victoria’s dynamic public transport network, its policy framework, its operations, and how this collectively can underpin the delivery of these initiatives.

He used to be a closet Melbourne Victory supporter, but these days he seems to have regained the confidence of a bygone era. We won’t be surprised if he walks in on a Monday after a big win in full team colours.

Want to get in touch with Demos? demos.michalopoulos@touchprojects.com.au

Dhaval Karia

Project Engineer

Dhaval Karia is a dedicated Civil Engineer with three and a half years of experience in the remediation and construction industries across Australia and India.

With a strong background in managing complex projects from start to finish, Dhaval consistently delivers exceptional results in project planning, execution, and quality control. 

Currently, Dhaval is serving as a Project Engineer on various projects for Melbourne Water, where he plays a key role in ensuring zero harm, maintaining high-quality standards, and achieving on-time delivery, customer satisfaction, and profitability. His commitment to excellence and his ability to navigate the challenges of complex engineering and infrastructure projects make him a valuable asset to any team. 

Outside of work, Dhaval enjoys playing table tennis and badminton, spending time on his PS5, and going on road trips. 

Want to get in touch with Dhaval? dhaval.karia@touchprojects.com.au

Faisal Javaid

Senior Project Manager

Faisal is a highly experienced Senior Project Manager with over 16 years of expertise in project delivery and construction management across Australia and Middle East. A qualified Civil Engineer and Project Management professional, Faisal has successfully led and delivered a diverse portfolio of projects, spanning local government capital works, civil infrastructure, roads, and highways construction both here and overseas.

With a strong technical foundation, Faisal excels in managing projects from pre-contract planning through to completion, ensuring seamless execution under various project frameworks. His expertise in construction methodologies is frequently sought after to tackle complex engineering challenges, driving innovative and practical solutions.

Passionate about delivering high-quality projects, Faisal is known for his ability to lead and motivate high-performing teams, fostering collaboration to achieve exceptional outcomes.

Outside of work, Faisal enjoys spending time with his young family and exploring the outdoors. Always up for an adventure, he welcomes recommendations for a great holiday destination!

Want to get in touch with Faisal? faisal.javaid@touchprojects.com.au

Faizan Hassan

Project Controls Manager

Faizan Hassan is an experienced Scheduler and Project Controls Manager with experience spanning over 18 years here and abroad. A qualified Civil Engineer by profession, he has been a key member of many project teams delivering many medium and large projects for local, state government bodies and large corporations.

He has led the development and implementation of significant construction programs and is proficient in asset management and maximizing its lifecycle. He is also highly experienced in production, quality assurance, stakeholder management and business development.

He also has considerable construction experience working previously with Grocon Group, delivering a large number of residential apartment developments, hotel refurbishments and other commercial builds.

Outside work, Faizan is busy spending time with his young family and extended family. He enjoys the outdoors and likes to load up the car and visit regional Victoria as often as he can

Want to get in touch with Faizan? faizan.hassan@touchprojects.com.au

Geordie Worland

Senior Project Manager / Consultant

Geordie Worland is a highly experienced Senior Project Manager with over 15 years’ experience delivering complex infrastructure projects across the civil, mining and resources sectors in both government and private environments. 

With a strong background in project management, commercial operations and business development, Geordie has successfully led multimillion-dollar programs and maintained long-standing relationships with Tier 1 contractors and asset owners including John Holland, Seymour Whyte, CPB, Acciona, McConnell Dowell, Metro Trains, the AFL, VIC Roads, Port of Melbourne and multiple water corporations. He is recognised for driving sustained business growth, including significant revenue increases in organisations he’s built and developed. 

Geordie’s strengths lie in strategic procurement, constructability, business case development and the implementation of robust operational and management systems. Uniquely placed, his project management skill set is equally strong from planning and development through the entire delivery lifecycle. A highly skilled communicator, he is known for his collaborative leadership style, strong commercial acumen and commitment to delivering reliable, high-quality outcomes for clients. 

Geordie holds a Diploma of Project Management. 

Outside of work,  
• Geordie loves getting outdoors and getting into the ocean having grown up on Manly Beach 
• Geordie enjoys keeping fit, getting into the gym as well as a game of golf. 
• Geordie enjoys food and wine culture, travelling and getting out to the theatre. He follows the Sydney Swans! 

Want to get in touch with Geordie? geordie.worland@touchprojects.com.au 

Halil Utku Yorulmaz

Project Engineer

Halil is a Project Engineer with civil construction experience both here in Victoria and abroad. 

He has been a key member of the project team that is delivering light rail works associated with Suburban Rail Loop Project currently underway between Cheltenham and Box Hill. In this role, Halil has provided support to the project team undertaking tram line augmentation works at Box Hill and Burwood in preparation for tunnelling works that will be commencing as part of this project. 

Halil has also delivered rail scopes for surface works of the Metro Tunnel Project. He is managing the interface between Metro Tunnel Project, Cross Yarra Partnership and Yarra Trams for the below precincts: 

• CBD South (Federation Square, Flinders OSD, Town Hall) 
• CBD North (State Library, Franklin Street, A’Beckett Street) 
• Domain/Anzac 

Halil also has expertise in design, interpretation and technical reviews, procurement take offs for numerous projects, including Turkey’s Main Irrigation Channel in Kilavuzlu. He has hands-on trade experience in the construction industry that has given him an excellent understanding of construction methodologies and the ability to solve technical problems on site. 

In his free time, Halil enjoys spending time in the outdoors and since moving to Australia has become a passionate camper. You will find him regularly sleeping under the stars in Victoria’s high country or closer to home in Mount Disappointment, which is a great achievement given he and his wife now have a toddler that always comes along. 

Want to get in touch with Halil? halil.yorulmaz@touchprojects.com.au

Helmi Som

Senior Project Manager

Helmi is a seasoned Project Manager and Chartered Professional Engineer (MIEAust CPEng NER) with over 20 years of experience in successfully managing complex construction projects in Australia and Asia. His local expertise includes local government sports ovals and facilities, carparks, tram infrastructure and operational depot facilities, road upgrades, and sewerage rehabilitation projects. 

Furthermore, Helmi has extensive international experience, having spent over a decade in Singapore and Indonesia managing new rail station builds, tunnelling, oil, chemical and gas greenfield and brown field terminal and marine jetty projects a Construction Manager. 

Outside of work, Helmi enjoys contributing to his community and spending quality time with his family, including his three growing children. He is a responsible and caring parent who loves to attend his children’s sports events and family gatherings on weekends. 

Want to get in touch with Helmi? helmi.som@touchprojects.com.au 

Jane Ryan

Office Administrator & Business Support

Jane brings a wealth of expertise in administration, sales, and operations management — combined with a passion for organisation, efficiency, and continuous improvement. She provides essential administrative support, manages office logistics, and contributes to a range of projects, consistently adding value through her professionalism and experience. 

Since joining Touch Projects, Jane has grown significantly in her role, taking on new challenges and applying her corporate experience to make a real impact. Known for her vibrant, results-oriented approach, she balances client needs with commercial outcomes while fostering a collaborative and inclusive team environment. 

In the office, Jane is known for her intelligence, energy, and approachable style — she enjoys the team banter and, of course, keeping the boys in check. Her dedication, expertise, and drive for continuous improvement make her a key contributor to Touch Projects. 

Outside of work, Jane runs, reads, caravans, explores the great outdoors with her husband, catches up with family and friends… and unabashedly bleeds royal blue and white for North Melbourne Football Club. Go Roos! 

Want to get in touch with Jane? jane.ryan@touchprojects.com.au 

John Christou

General Manager

John is a part owner and the General Manager of Touch Projects. He has solid traffic and transport engineering experience over 20 years in Roads Management Strategy and Public Transport Management specialising in light rail and road infrastructure projects.

Prior to joining Touch Projects, John has held key project roles on public and private sectors managing the development and delivery of many complex and technically challenging projects.

He is a member of the Australian Institute of Engineers.

John is a professional that sets the bar high for himself and expects the same from his staff and his colleagues. His is passionate about achieving great project outcomes without compromising the core objectives of the project.

John is also a chairman of the Management Committee for a number of Aged Care facilities providing a variety of services to the community. He is also the President of Community of Cypriots of the Northern Suburbs of Melbourne Inc, and is active on a range of activities and programs throughout the year. He loves being active with his two kids, and loves challenging them to organising traditional cooking events at home.

Want to get in touch with John? john.christou@touchprojects.com.au

Joshua Chan

Project Engineer

Joshua joined Touch Projects in June 2023 through our Graduate Program and brings enthusiasm, adaptability, and a strong work ethic to every project. 

With experience across diverse industries, he combines technical knowledge with excellent interpersonal skills and a collaborative approach. Joshua thrives under pressure, consistently delivering quality outcomes while maintaining a reliable and responsible work style. 

A quick learner and natural problem-solver, Joshua is committed to developing his expertise in project management and contributing to successful project delivery. 

Outside of work, Joshua enjoys camping, hiking new trails, and playing competitive sport with friends. Time outdoors helps him reset and stay grounded, while team sport keeps him active and connected. 

Want to get in touch with Joshua? joshua.chan@touchprojects.com.au

Melih Akbal

Project Manager

Melih (Mel) Akbal is a highly skilled and experienced Senior Project Engineer with a proven track record of successfully delivering a wide range of construction projects. 

With five years of industry experience, Mel is currently contributing to Melbourne Water for Facilities Fitout Projects. As a dedicated professional with a strong engineering background, Mel’s passion lies in taking on responsibilities and challenges in his field. With his diverse experience across different project types, he brings a unique perspective and adaptable skill set to every project he undertakes. 

Mel holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering, which has equipped him with a solid foundation in the field. He demonstrates exceptional problem-solving abilities, utilising his analytical mindset and attention to detail to identify and address project complexities. 

Outside of work, Mel enjoys brewing traditional Turkish coffee, grilling over a charcoal BBQ — definitely not gas, the flavour's just better — and playing Ultimate Frisbee with his mates on the weekends. 

Want to get in touch with Melih? melih.akbal@touchprojects.com.au

Michael Barrow

Senior Project Manager

Michael Barrow is an experienced Senior Project Manager with over 26 years’ experience within the Heavy Rail and Communications sectors working on both the client and contractor side. He is skilled in fibre optic network design and construction, process analysis, and stakeholder management with Government, Vendors, Contractors and the community.

His project management career has given him extensive experience with the relevant environmental, heritage and OHS legislation and standards.

He understands the machinery of government and the effort it takes to deliver large projects with many moving parts. Diversity in stakeholder management requires managing a group of key people with often differing corporate, commercial or political motivations. Michael’s relaxed approach sees him engage with various people to achieve great project outcomes.

Outside work, and with Michael’s kids now flown the coup, you will often find him (deliberately) out of phone range enjoying the great outdoors with his wife, camping at various spots around Victoria.

Want to get in touch with Michael? michael.barrow@touchprojects.com.au

Mike Javadi

Senior Project Manager

Mike is a well-respected Civil Engineer with over 20 years’ experience in the construction industry in Australia and abroad. During this period, he has delivered multiple transport infrastructure projects and industrial processing plants. 

Mike's experience has been in the heavy construction space that includes roads, rail, metro, and viaduct stations, pump stations and pipelines, HV/LV emergency power stations and transmission lines. His experience and methodical management approach reinforces his reputation as being able to motivate different teams with competing corporate interests, to successfully achieve great project outcomes. 

With broad experience from a variety of complex projects, Mike has developed his skillset that includes project construction management, preparing and managing tender documentation, contract management, risk management, stakeholder management, and tender and design reviews. 

Having worked overseas for several years Mike has re-settled in Melbourne and enjoys being close to friends and family. 

Outside work, Mike enjoys getting his hands dirty with various small and large DIY projects around the house. He is always willing to share his knowledge and expertise and is always happy to lend his tools (and trailer) to fellow DIY’ers within the Touch Projects team. 

Want to get in touch with Mike? mike.javadi@touchprojects.com.au

Monica Mondkar

Project Manager - Construction & Fitout

Monica Mondkar is an accomplished Project Manager with over 20 years’ extensive experience in the construction and fitout industries. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture and an M.Tech in Construction and Project Management, equipping her with advanced skills in stakeholder management, contract negotiation, financial reporting, and project management. She excels in cost management and design management, ensuring successful project outcomes.

In her time at Touch Projects, Monica has successfully delivered major construction projects including the Aboriginal Centre for Elderly Seniors Aged Care Services (staged development – Stages 1 and 2 completed and Stage 3 ready to commence), and projects for the City of Monash – Mount Waverley Reserve Sports Pavillion ($10mn) and Bogong Car Park ($55mn).

Previously, Monica was involved in key projects such as the Staughton College upgrade (Melton), Kardinia International College (Geelong), and the YWCA Social Housing project (Bendigo) during her roles as a Project Manager at Fontic.

Monica is experienced in managing live environment projects at Melbourne Airport and at Federation Square, Melbourne. She has also managed major projects including the Atlassian Central HQ base-build in Sydney and multiple office and retail fit outs such as TPG Investments and Great Southern Bank.

With a strong foundation in project management and superintendency, Monica continues to be a key contributor to the success of large to mid-scale construction projects.

Outside of work, Monica is a busy full-time working mum of a teenager and loves to spoil her family with international cuisine. A nurturer at heart, Monica has a green thumb and enjoys her garden projects.

Want to get in touch with Monica? monica.mondkar@touchprojects.com.au

Neil Christall

Senior Project Manager

Neil Christall is a highly experienced Senior Project Manager with over 20 years in the industry, specialising in the successful delivery of complex infrastructure projects. His extensive background spans large scale earthworks, land and commercial building development, water and wastewater infrastructure, sports & recreation facilities, and storm, fire and flood recovery redevelopment works to roads, drainage, buildings and engineered structures showcasing his broad technical knowledge and leadership capabilities.

Neil has a proven track record of leading multi-disciplinary teams and engaging with key stakeholders to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget. His ability to navigate the challenges of infrastructure development with a solutions-focused mindset has made him a valuable asset to the Touch Projects team.

Neil's professional journey includes senior project management roles at respected organisations such as Earth Tech, Stantec, Turner & Townsend, AECOM, and MWH Ltd, where he honed his skills in project strategy, delivery, risk management, and stakeholder engagement. His leadership and expertise have been instrumental in driving the success of major projects across Australia and New Zealand.

Beyond his professional commitments, Neil enjoys supporting his family in their academic and sports endeavours as well as exploring Australia, especially its national parks and state forests by hiking and 4-wheel drive with his family and friends.

Want to get in touch with Neil? neil.christall@touchprojects.com.au

Nick Savvas

CEO

Nick Savvas is the founder and CEO of Touch Projects. He has over 20 years industry experience including Public Transportation, Light Rail, Infrastructure and Logistics and has held key project delivery roles on large, private & public sector projects throughout Australia.

Nick is passionate on building the right team to deliver great project outcomes. This may sometimes require pulling together people from different backgrounds to get the job done. Nick’s goal is to continuously build and develop his team and ensures they are often out of their comfort zones. He acutely understands team dynamics and has an uncanny ability to motivate and get the best out of people.

He is a member of the Australian Institute of Project Managers and the Supply Chain & Logistics Association of Australia.

In his not-so-often spare time, Nick loves to launch his boat and cruise the waters around Wilsons Promontory looking for a secret beach or hidden cove with his three kids. Whilst he claims to be an avid fisherman amongst his circles, truth be told (by his immediate family), there is seldom any fresh fish for dinner at home.

Want to get in touch with Nick? nick.savvas@touchprojects.com.au

Paul Larcher

Senior Project Manager

With over 35 years’ engineering and commercial experience in infrastructure operations and multi-disciplinary projects, Paul has held senior management roles in large and small commercial organisations, academic institutions and not-for-profits. 

Paul is experienced in providing advisory, project and construction management services to governments and blue-chip companies. He has a broad understanding of commercial, environmental, social, government, legal, operational and sustainability risks and issues in addition to the technical and financial drivers.

His senior roles have allowed him to develop expertise in strategic planning, business turnaround, commercial performance and building high performing teams through stakeholder alignment. 

His deep knowledge of strategic planning, business turnaround, and commercial performance have enabled him to deliver exceptional results. 

Paul’s impressive portfolio in the water sector includes leadership roles in complex infrastructure and treatment projects across Australia and internationally. 

Outside of work, Paul is a keen sailor with his own boat who enjoys racing on Port Phillip and sailing yachts up and down the East Coast of Australia. He is working towards becoming an internationally qualified Race Officer for yachting events. 

Want to get in touch with Paul?  paul.larcher@touchprojects.com.au 

Ridwan Ishan

Project Engineer

Ridwan is a seasoned Civil Engineer with experience across rail and tram networks, asset management, and water infrastructure. His expertise includes earthworks, roads, drainage, sewer, and concrete and steel drafting for both industrial and residential developments. 

With strong technical grounding and excellent working knowledge of CAD, Ridwan approaches each project with creativity, practicality, and a focus on innovative solutions. 

With quality, risk management, and timeliness in mind, he oversees successful implementation through to staged completion, ensuring critical standards, procedures, and processes are met throughout the project lifecycle. 

With a collaborative focus, Ridwan ensures communication is at the forefront of all his interactions with internal and external stakeholders, maintaining transparency and accountability in his work. 

Outside of work, Ridwan enjoys playing soccer and spending time with family and friends. 

Want to get in touch with Ridwan? ridwan.ishan@touchprojects.com.au 

Shalini Trikha

Senior Project Manager

Shalini Trikha is an accomplished engineering leader with over 20 years’ experience delivering critical infrastructure projects across Australia and southern Africa. With a strong background in civil engineering, she has successfully led the planning, design, and delivery of major water and transport assets across both public and private sectors. 

Shalini brings deep expertise in stakeholder engagement, asset lifecycle planning, and technical governance. She is known for her collaborative leadership style, commercial acumen, and unwavering commitment to safety, reliability, and customer outcomes. Her strengths include translating complex project requirements into practical, sustainable engineering solutions and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across project teams. 

Shalini holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) from the University of Leeds and is a Chartered Engineer and Fellow of Engineers Australia. Her work has consistently delivered value through improved design quality, enhanced service delivery, and strong stakeholder partnerships. 

Outside of work, Shalini enjoys going to the gym and taking nature walks. To unwind after a busy day, she loves spending time with her dog, Scooby. 

Want to get in touch with Shalini? shalini.trikha@touchprojects.com.au

Simon Birch

Senior Project Manager

Simon Birch is an experienced Project Management professional with a strong background in rail, manufacturing, water, and waste industries. With over 10 years of experience, Simon has effectively led complex projects—from commissioning to delivery—playing a key role in high-value infrastructure initiatives at Metro Trains Melbourne. His earlier tenure at Toyota Motor Corporation Australia honed his skills in cost leadership, process improvement, and multidisciplinary team coordination.

Simon holds a Master of Engineering Project Management from the University of Melbourne and is Prince2 certified, underscoring his expertise in change management, design reviews, and risk mitigation. Known for his strategic problem-solving and collaborative approach, Simon consistently ensures that projects meet scope, quality, and schedule requirements, driving excellence in dynamic operational environments.

Beyond his professional commitments, he enjoys a range of outdoor adventure hobbies, often on camping trips exploring and spending time in nature.

Want to get in touch with Simon? simon.birch@touchprojects.com.au

Simon Deeble

Senior Project Engineer

Simon Deeble is a seasoned Civil Engineer with over 20 years’ experience in the development, design, and delivery of infrastructure projects across Australia, Asia, and the Middle East. His project portfolio spans both the public and private sectors, as well as humanitarian initiatives, reflecting his ability to adapt and perform in diverse technical and cultural settings.

Simon is known for his strategic mindset and strong focus on performance, results, and integrity. His core values—honesty, communication, and respect—underpin his approach to stakeholder engagement and team collaboration. He has a proven track record in managing complex infrastructure works from concept through to construction, with a hands-on approach to engineering, project management, and client service.

Holding a Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) with Honours from the University of Melbourne, Simon is dedicated to delivering high-quality outcomes in technically demanding environments. His ability to build strong relationships and lead multidisciplinary teams has earned him recognition as a dependable and solutions-focused professional.

Outside of work, Simon loves supporting his kids in their passions—watching his son making incredible saves as a goalkeeper and cheering on his daughter as she masters new gymnastics routines. Simon also enjoys challenging himself with new experiences. Lately, he’s been learning how to surf, which he says has been fun, but humbling.

Want to get in touch with Simon? simon.deeble@touchprojects.com.au

Tony Antoniou

Strategic & Technical Advisor, Water

Tony Antoniou is a seasoned water infrastructure management professional with over 40 years of expertise. As an Associate to Touch Projects, Tony brings a wealth of experience in strategic planning, asset management, and operational excellence.

He graduated with Honors in Civil Engineering from University College London and has a distinguished 35 year career at Melbourne Water. Tony's comprehensive skills encompass the entire water cycle, from sustainable water management to green energy initiatives and waste recovery solutions. He has a proven track record of implementing transformative changes, including developing new operational models and managing multimillion-dollar projects using innovative procurement methods.

Throughout his career, Tony has led major integration projects, developed comprehensive asset management strategies, and managed large contracts to ensure regulatory compliance and optimal operational performance.

His contributions to the water infrastructure industry continued as a Senior Associate at Sequana Partners, where he provided strategic advice and management services. Tony's commitment to excellence, continuous improvement, and leadership in delivering high-quality water infrastructure projects make him a valuable asset to Touch Projects and the industry as a whole.

Outside of work, Tony enjoys regular European River Cruising trips and assisting with the development of women’s community soccer.

Want to get in touch with Tony? tony.antoniou@touchprojects.com.au