Meet member spotlight John Breed
| 1. What inspired you to join the WA Mining Club, and how has it benefited you or your business? | |
| I joined the WA Mining Club because I saw it as a true hub for industry engagement — a space where real conversations happen and long-term partnerships are formed. As a business director involved across two companies that support the mining sector, I was drawn to the opportunity to build meaningful connections, learn from leaders in the field, and contribute to the wider community. Over time, the Club has become more than just a networking platform — it’s influenced how I think about leadership in this industry. Through conversations with members, including a particularly insightful one with Barry Upton (Vice President), I gained a deeper appreciation for the Club’s mission beyond business: especially its investment in education, scholarships, and the Mining Camp. It reminded me that supporting future talent isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s a responsibility. | |
| 2. How do you see the future of mining in Western Australia, and what role do networking groups like WA Mining Club play in shaping it? | |
| The future of mining in WA is being shaped by major shifts — the transition to low-emission operations, new demands around critical minerals, and evolving ESG expectations. But the most important asset in all of that is people. Without the right talent pipeline, innovation and progress stall. That’s where organisations like the WA Mining Club play a critical role. They don’t just reflect the industry — they help shape its future. Through initiatives like the scholarship program and Mining Camp, the Club creates a bridge between education and industry. When I spoke with Barry Upton about these programs, his passion for the next generation was clear. It’s those efforts — nurturing emerging leaders and providing them with real exposure — that ensure WA’s mining sector remains globally competitive and socially relevant. | |
| 3. What’s makes the WA Mining Club unique? | |
| The WA Mining Club has a rare ability to bring together seasoned executives, emerging professionals, educators, and innovators — all under one banner. It’s inclusive, yet serious. Social, yet strategic. What sets it apart is its action-oriented commitment to building the future of the industry. I was particularly impressed by the way Club leaders like Barry Upton speak about initiatives such as scholarships and the Emerging Leaders Program. There’s genuine follow-through on the idea that we have to elevate new voices and support those who will inherit and reshape this industry. That sense of stewardship makes the Club stand out. | |
| 4. What advice would you give to young professionals looking to build a career in the mining industry? | |
| Engage early — and don’t be afraid to start conversations. This is an industry where relationships matter just as much as technical skills. The WA Mining Club is a brilliant place to meet mentors, ask questions, and grow your awareness of the industry’s many facets. My advice? Get involved in programs like the Mining Camp and the Emerging Leaders network. Seek out people who’ve walked the path, like Barry and others on the Club committee, who are open to supporting new entrants. And most importantly, stay curious. The mining industry is evolving fast, and those who can adapt and lead with a learning mindset will thrive. | |
| 5. Can you share a memorable moment or key takeaway from a WA Mining Club event that made a lasting impact on you? | |
| A standout moment for me was a recent conversation with Barry Upton at the Vice President’s table during a Club luncheon. We spoke about the WA Mining Club’s education and scholarship initiatives — and that discussion really re framed how I saw the Club’s long-term value. It reminded me that the Club isn’t just about networking — it’s about shaping the future of the industry by actively investing in the next generation. That moment stuck with me, not just because of the quality of the discussion, but because it sparked something actionable. While Environmental Site Services wasn’t in a position to sponsor the Environmental Scholarship in 2025, I proposed the idea of an Occupational Hygiene Scholarship for 2026. It’s a field we’re deeply committed to, and one that is critical to the health and well being of the mining workforce — especially in managing risks like silica exposure, dust, noise, and hazardous substances. What struck me most is how open and engaged Barry and the Club were about the idea. Occupational hygiene is an area where there’s significant demand but limited awareness as a career path, and I believe a dedicated scholarship could make a real impact. That conversation turned a casual networking moment into a deeper alignment of values — and it’s a great example of what the WA Mining Club facilitates at its best. | |
