When an explorer calls Essential information for Queensland landholders from the Department of Mines and Energy.  Melanie an inspiration to Smart Women A young senior engineer who has been an inspiration to women working in the resources sector is a winner in this year’s Queensland Government Smart Women Smart State Awards.  Safety up, carbon down An innovation that makes a mine site safer while reducing carbon emissions has taken out the prestigious Queensland Mining Industry Innovation Awards.  Scholarship encourages female engineering students An $8000 scholarship aimed at encouraging women to complete engineering degrees has been awarded to University of Queensland Student Rachel Jukes.  Exploring Queensland—the future is NOW The QRC is pleased to welcome the Queensland Minister for Mines and Energy, Hon. Geoff Wilson MP, as special guest speaker at a mineral exploration breakfast forum on 31 October.      Land Court decision welcome Queensland Resources Council Chief Executive Michael Roche has welcomed the Land Court’s decision, which he said confirmed industry’s understanding of exploration operating conditions.  Resources policy hijacked The Queensland Resources Council says the Queensland Government seems to have allowed resources sector policy to be hijacked by sectional interests.  Promise of stronger communities The Queensland Resources Council has welcomed the state government's announcement of a new three-year $100 million funding package to strengthen resource industry-based communities.  Oil shale decision a blow The declaration of a 20-year moratorium over the development of the McFarlane oil shale deposit would further erode Queensland’s standing as a destination for exploration investment.