Before we break for Christmas we are happy to introduce Associate Planner Daniel De Fazio.

Daniel joined our team in August 2021 and welcomed his second child one month after starting at HH. Suffice to say he hasn’t slept in months and is very much looking forward to a nice holiday this festive season!

Can you give us a little background as to your beginnings? What was your first ever job?

My first job was at Hungry Jack’s as a teenager, but it didn’t last long because I had to cancel what was probably only my fifth or sixth shift ever. My footy grand final was calling and I was not going to let my team down to flip burgers. Unfortunately that was the end of my career as a “burger king” because no more shifts came my way! Throughout my career I feel teamwork has been a focus of mine and playing sport from a young age helped shape my appreciation for having a great team.

How did you start your career as a Town Planner?

After my first career as a paramedic, I moved overseas and when I returned I had to make a decision about whether I would stay in health or start a new career. Being a paramedic was definitely an eye-opener and from a work perspective, really emphasised the value of having empathy and being able to clearly communicate.

Urban planning seemed a natural fit, I realised at the time I had always been interested in architecture and the life of cities. Going from studying in 2012 through to leading teams and executing many projects, I feel confident I have chosen the right profession. I feel great pride in being part of an entire team of great minds to deliver new housing and community projects.

What was it that first drew you to private consultancy and has since kept you so focused?

Like many, I find problem solving and driving outcomes to be very rewarding, and working on the consultancy side enables me to be part of projects from conception to completion. It provides opportunity for me to influence the result, which I aim to do in a positive way (generally)!

Favourite project?

I have a passion for in-fill residential projects, my favourite project was for a private developer in Brunswick West and it is currently under construction. I drive past the project and am thrilled to see how the original design translates in built form. I loved that project because of the site’s narrow underdeveloped nature in an emerging area. That particular client was open to new ideas and higher quality materials, which will result in a stunning final product.

 Whats been one of your best achievements over the last year?

“Aside from helping keep my toddler alive while working from home, and supporting my partner as we welcomed our second child.” It was the challenging decision to leave a happy employment and start a new role at HH (and remotely). Starting a new role is always a challenge let alone doing so remotely, and in recent weeks I have enjoyed getting into the office more regularly to meet the whole team in person and meet some of our clients in person.

You’re a fun, organised and team focussed person. How about giving us your greatest life achievement to date.

Thank you! And there’s just so many to choose from… I don’t want to spoil any future Biopic made about me, but I think (besides fatherhood) what I view as a great part of my life was living and working in Japan. I did some unusual work (Marriage Celebrant comes to mind) and got to live outside my comfort zone. Even the small things like getting petrol, or going to the supermarket, become an adventure in a foreign place and the achievement of surviving (and even a little thriving) is something I’m still proud of.

Favourite Album….ever…?

Sam’s Town from The Killers.

Favourite building in Melbourne?

Cairo Flats. These small, beautiful apartments tell a story from the past and even though they are something that wouldn’t get built today necessarily, they are still in use, which shows that we can adapt and so can our buildings.

Dogs or cats?

Need more options… I am not a big fan of pets (unless it gets cold enough). I am sure at some stage our children will ask for a pet and then I might just have to fold!

Dream holiday destination post COVID?

I am yet to visit Egypt (or any of Africa), so I think that would be next on the list. I am keen to see the pyramids, particularly their juxtaposition with the surrounding metropolis of Cairo!

Last stamp in your passport?

New Zealand. It really is 100% Pure (ha). There’s just so much to see and do, and the locals are easy going, and of course it’s so close. Very beautiful place to see by road trip.

What superpower would you choose if you could?

Hindsight. Oh wait, I already have that.

Favourite open space in Melbourne?

Princes Park. There’s something for everyone. You can go for a run, have a picnic, swing on the monkey bars, buy a scarf at Optus Oval, I mean Icon Park.

Last one for the fans… Beach or Snow?

Snow. I love snowboarding, and although I do like the beach, snowboarding holds my interest longer and actually requires me to work a bit to enjoy it, so yes, definitely snow.