Women in Australian resources recognised with national awards

14 Sep, 2018

Inspiring women from across Australia’s world-class resources sector have been recognised with the announcement of the winners of the Rio Tinto 2018 Women in Resources National Awards.

The Awards – in their fifth year – acknowledge the efforts and achievements of exceptional women and gender diversity champions who are paving the way for others in the resources sector across Australia.

Encouraging women to pursue and continue a career in mining is vital if the number of STEM professionals in resources are to increase to build the workforce of the future.

Furthermore, evidence shows that diversity and inclusion drive productivity, innovation and performance.

With only 16 per cent of Australia’s minerals workforce being women, it’s clear that there’s a big job ahead.

The following women in Australian resources were recognised:

Exceptional Woman in Australian Resources: Winner – Melanie McCarthy (Mandalay Resources); Highly Commended – Nicole Brook (Glencore), Jo-anne Dudley (Rio Tinto); Special Judges Award (Entrepreneurship) – Peta Libby (Digirock)
Exceptional Young Woman in Australian Resources: Winner – Nima Sherpa (BHP); Highly Commended – Kristy Christensen (South32)
Gender Diversity Champion in Australian Resources: Winner – Rachel Durdin (Rio Tinto); Highly Commended – Veena Mendez (Chevron Australia); Deirdra Tindale (BHP)
Outstanding Australian Trade, Operator or Technician: Winner – Nicole O’Keefe (BHP); Highly Commended – Dannielle Weston (Hastings Deering); Special Judges Award (Industry Contribution) – Katrina Bangay (Rio Tinto/Energy Resources Australia)
Excellence in Diversity Programs and Performance Award: Winner – Rio Tinto White Ribbon Accreditation (Western Australia); Highly Commended – Rio Tinto Inclusion and Diversity (Weipa Operations).

The awards are a partnership between the Minerals Council of Australia, Chamber of Minerals and Energy Western Australia, NSW Minerals Council, South Australian Chamber of Mines and Energy, Tasmanian Minerals and Energy Council and Queensland Resources Council.