Finalists announced for the 2026 Resources Awards for Women
Read the 2026 Resources Awards for Women award categories and finalists here.
An engineering superintendent, diesel fitter, dragline operator and Chief Operating Officer are among the outstanding 20 finalists for the 2026 Resources Awards for Women (RAW).
The annual Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and Women in Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ) awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of women and allies across Queensland’s mining and resources sector.
Now in its 20th year, the awards recognise women leading the way in operational, technical, professional and leadership roles across coal, oil, gas, metals and minerals.
This year’s 20 finalists from across Moranbah, Moura to Brisbane, in seven award categories, highlight the ongoing progress in diversity and innovation and women’s contributions to the sector.
QRC Chief Executive Officer Janette Hewson, a former Queensland Exceptional Woman in Resources award winner from 2015, said the 2026 finalists were inspirational and reflected the breadth of growing talent across Queensland’s resources sector.
“These awards shine a light on the exceptional women, at all levels, shaping the future of Queensland’s resources sector and showing what’s possible,” Ms Hewson said.
“Having more women work in resources strengthens productivity, attracts and retains talent and ensures our industry has the skilled workforce it needs for the future.”
WIMARQ Co-Chair Catherine Cook said each finalist had an inspiring story of impact and resilience — improving safety, lifting operational performance, solving complex technical challenges, strengthening communities and championing diversity and inclusion.
“From emerging talent to senior leaders, these women are shaping the future of Queensland’s resources sector and their achievements deserve to be celebrated and shared,” Ms Cook said.
Hastings Deering’s Managing Director & CEO Mark Scott said he was proud of the five nominees from Hastings Deering this year.
“Hastings Deering continues to drive diversity across its business and these awards mean a lot to myself and the team,” Mr Scott said.
“We’re lucky to be represented by our exceptional talent in Brisbane and Rockhampton in: Tiffany Kirkwood, Georgia Mehmet, Humaira Ehsan, Liberty Cullen and Bec Wright.
“They are outstanding examples of tenacity, resilience and talent for the entire industry.”
Award winners will be announced at the RAW awards ceremony on Friday 6 March at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, coinciding with International Women’s Day (8 March) and Queensland Women’s Week (8-14 March).
Tickets for the event, proudly presented by Anglo American, are on sale now and will include a forum followed by an awards lunch honouring exceptional leaders.
Keynote speaker is former mining executive, prison governor and bestselling author Claire Parkinson.
Click here to secure your tickets, before 2 March.
Media Contact:
Miguel Holland – [email protected] or 0437 758 347
