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President’s Address
WA Mining Club President

President’s Address

We were privileged to have esteemed life members join us at the recent luncheon: Damian Quail, a past president, and life members Alan Dickson, Eddie Plume, and Vic Bullo. The June luncheon proved to be highly successful, providing profound insights into the transition to the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2021.

This month, we celebrate the NAIDOC 2023 theme – For our Elders – paying tribute to the remarkable contributions of the Elders in our community. Throughout generations, our Elders have held significant roles and continue to play an integral part in our communities and families. They are custodians of cultural knowledge, pioneers, caregivers, advocates, educators, survivors, leaders, hard workers, and beloved family members. The WA Mining Club acknowledges and respects the Traditional Owners of Country across Australia, recognising their enduring connection to land, water, and culture. We pay our deepest respects to their Elders, both past and present, as well as emerging leaders.

In May, we had the pleasure of hearing from Steven Coughlan, a candid mining industry veteran, who provided a compelling overview of the origins of the Australian underground contracting sector. His impassioned plea highlighted the growing threat of unnecessary bureaucracy, which compromises the effectiveness of an industry that underpins Australia’s economy.

The WA Mining Club’s Emerging Leaders mentor program offers professionals in the mining industry the opportunity to connect with experienced industry leaders. Open to all WA Mining Club members, this program encourages individuals seeking career growth and expanded networks to apply.

Mark your calendars for our Young Professionals quarter 2 event on July 6th, titled “Fueling the Future – Hydrogen v Nuclear.” This event will feature two industry experts engaging in a friendly debate, presenting their perspectives on the future of energy. Attendees can expect a thought-provoking experience, gaining valuable insights into these competing visions for our energy future. Delve into the realm of nuclear energy and hydrogen, exploring their advantages, challenges, and their potential role in addressing pressing global energy needs.

We are thrilled to announce the Mining Industry Rio Carnivale Masquerade Ball, scheduled for August 19th. This prestigious event promises an evening of elegance, networking, and entertainment. Join us for an opportunity to connect with the elite of the mining industry. Engage in stimulating conversations, forge new partnerships, and explore collaborations that can shape the future of our industry.

As many of you may know, the Club has partnered with STEM Smart to deliver an in-school program primarily targeting year 9 secondary students. This program encourages students to explore the value of studying STEM subjects in years 11 and 12, as well as the countless opportunities that arise from doing so. The in-class sessions focus on robotics and software programming, emphasizing both enjoyment and valuable knowledge acquisition. We are seeking sponsorship from forward-thinking companies to enable us to continue and expand the program, further extending our reach. If you’re interested, please reach out to Barry Upton.

As we reflect on the accomplishments of the first half of the year, it is evident that the WA Mining Club and the industry have thrived. We express our gratitude to all the members, presenters, sponsors, and supporters who have contributed to this success. Together, we will continue to build upon these achievements, embracing new opportunities, and shaping a prosperous future for the mining industry.