At the 2023 Queensland Resources Council's Indigenous Awards held this week in Brisbane, a diverse array of Indigenous talents in the resources sector was brought to the fore. In addition to the joint winners for Indigenous Excellence, there was a significant number of individuals and organisations across the sector who were praised for their outstanding contribution to lifting up the Indigenous community.
Chandel Eyre, a Kamilaroi woman and the Human Resources Manager at Petros Solutions Australia received the Indigenous Advocacy in Queensland Resources award. Throughout her career, Chandel has tirelessly worked to foster stronger relationships between Indigenous communities and the resources sector. She was recognised for going above and beyond her professional obligations by founding the charity Empowering Community Strategy. The charity acts as a vital bridge, fostering dialogue and collaboration between the resources sector and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Alex Dyball, a young Kalkadoon man, was another standout at the ceremony. Alex, the winner of the Indigenous Rising Star in Queensland Resources, has demonstrated his commitment to promoting Indigenous empowerment, education, and opportunities. His dedication and leadership since joining Thiess in 2019 carved him out as a leading figure for young Indigenous people considering a career in science, technology, engineering and math.
The awards also recognized the potential among Indigenous students. The Exceptional Indigenous Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) Student Award was won by Malachi Munns.
As the School Captain of Good Shepherd Catholic College in Mount Isa, Malachi was considered a shining example of how the QMEA's efforts are helping Indigenous students to develop the skills necessary to have a prosperous career in the resources sector.
In addition, corporate efforts towards enhancing Indigenous inclusion were recognised. Shell QGC was awarded the Best Company Indigenous Initiative for its Waalitj Indigenous Scholarship Program, while the BudbySmith Group, a fully Indigenous-owned business, won the Exceptional Indigenous Business in Queensland Resources award.
Ian Macfarlane, QRC's Chief Executive, reiterated the importance of such contributions, saying, "The resources sector is proudly the largest private employer of Indigenous men and women in Queensland, and we hope these awards will inspire more First Nations' people into one of the many rewarding careers available."
He added, "Resources companies across Queensland are actively encouraging Indigenous people into their workforces, particularly in regional and remote areas where they operate."
