Queensland talent shines at national resources awards

Queensland's Joana Sousa (pictured) has taken out the award for technological innovation at the Women in Resources National Awards, hosted by the Minerals Council of Australia in Canberra. Among her achievements, the BHP data science lead created an algorithm at the heart of the award-winning Processing and Set Point Optimisation (PASPO) product. This improves blend feed visibility for coal handling and processing plants and recommends ideal wash setting recommendations to meet target specifications. Her pathway to career success in resources has not been without its challenges, with Ms Sousa having to overcome language and cultural barriers after emigrating to Australia from Portugal to take up a position with BHP. Queensland Resources Council (QRC) chief executive Ian Macfarlane said Ms Sousa was an inspiration for women with a passion for STEM and a determination to succeed in their chosen field. “The sky really is the limit when it comes to hi-tech career opportunities in the resources sector because companies are looking to recruit people with a STEM background to help drive the massive transformation needed to achieve Australia’s net-zero emission targets,” he said. The Rio Tinto Aluminium Women in Leadership Program was also among the winners for its success in increasing women in frontline leadership positions from 5 per cent to 18 per cent between Q3 2022 and Q2 2023. It won the Newmont Excellence in Diversity Programs and Performance Award. Other winners of the BHP 2023 Women in Resources National Awards include: Dyno Nobel Exceptional Woman in Australian Resources AwardDr Bianca Newcombe, principal metallurgist of OptiFroth, for her tenacity to follow her passion and remain connected with industry, from taking up an industry-based PhD, to developing a niche business – along the way significantly contributing to the growth and participation of women in the sector. Newcrest Exceptional Young Woman in Australian Resources AwardMegan Parry, ecosystem reconstruction advisor with the Closure Studies Team at Energy Resources of Australia, for her rapid career progression, exemplary work and community-based activity to build the reputation of industry, and commitment to forging meaningful connections with young women, Traditional Owners and the scientific community. The Bloomfield Group Outstanding Australian Tradeswoman, Operator or Technician AwardLindsay Gerrard, dual trade electrician at INPEX, for her notable career progression and significant contribution in both her workplace and community – demonstrated by her initiative in mentoring female, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander apprentices. Rio Tinto Inclusion and Diversity Champion in Australian Resources AwardLucy McClean, chair of Women in Mining NSW, for her pivotal role in supporting and empowering women in the NSW resources sector and her enthusiasm for connecting young people to the industry.

Queensland talent shines at national resources awards

Industry Queensland

Related News

State backs Isaac Country Universities Centres

HPI animation doing the rounds for safety

Megatrends report points to mining tech revolutions

Get access to breaking mining news, now.