Queensland’s exceptional women in resources finalists announced

  • Posted 22 January, 2025
  • Media Releases

Click here for photo of QRC Chief Executive Officer, Janette Hewson

Click here for list of finalists

The Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and Women in Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ) have announced finalists for the 2025 Resources Awards for Women and recognised the exceptional contribution of women to the success of Queensland’s resources sector.

The 18 finalists from Brisbane to Mt Isa showcase the impact and success of women in leadership, operational and technical roles in Queensland’s resources sector.

This is the 19th year the awards have been held and in 2025 the award finalists demonstrate Queensland’s exceptional talents and skills in sustainability, technology, innovation, and diversity and inclusion.

QRC Chief Executive Officer, Janette Hewson, said all finalists are great examples of the significant progress made by women in the resources sector and are role models for young women looking to make a career in the industry.

“The Resources Awards for Women are a demonstration of the sector’s commitment to a diverse workforce and exceptional talent. This helps our industry to attract and retain the best talent.

“When the awards commenced in 2006, just six per cent of the resources sector workforce in Queensland were women and now it’s over 22 per cent and rising.

“The common thread across our 2025 finalists is their dedication to creating a welcoming and diverse environment for all,” Ms Hewson said.

“Increasing diversity and including more women does not mean excluding others.

“Increasing female participation in the workforce is one of the key economic levers we have to increase productivity, which brings benefits to all,” Ms Hewson said.

“The resources sector needs to include as many people from all backgrounds in our workforce to help address critical skills and labour shortages.”

This year’s finalists include a Paralympian committed to workforce diversity, a UQ researcher with a passion to improve worker safety and health, and an Environmental Superintendent demonstrating technical expertise and leadership in rehabilitation.

WIMARQ co-chair Sally Rayner said Queensland’s resources sector encourages more women into the sector.

“Our finalists range from women with decades of industry experience to those who’ve only recently started their careers in the resources, and all are making a positive difference,” Ms Rayner said.

“Resources companies are also more aware of the value to their business from having an inclusive environment which is open to new and different ways to identify and solve problems,” she said.

“This year’s outstanding field of award finalists clearly demonstrates the diverse and rewarding careers available across our sector, which we hope inspires a whole new generation of women to consider the opportunities available.”

Media Contact: Matt Dunstan – [email protected]