The success of Bravus Mining and Resources’ partnership with First Nations business Biodiversity Australia has been recognised as part of the Queensland Resources Council’s (QRC) prestigious 2025 Indigenous Awards.
Bravus Mining and Resources chief operating officer Mick Crowe said Biodiversity Australia being named as a finalist in the Exceptional Indigenous Business in Queensland category spoke to the quality of the environmental work the company had delivered for the Carmichael mine, its supporting infrastructure in central Queensland, and the value of investing in Indigenous partnerships and regional procurement.
“We look to work with local contractors and suppliers wherever possible, and Biodiversity Australia is a great example of the capability of First Nations businesses in regional Queensland,” Crowe said.
“We believe that working alongside Traditional Owners and Indigenous communities isn’t just about compliance – it’s about creating lasting benefits.
“Our Indigenous land use agreements and Indigenous participation plan guarantee First Nations people are an integral part of the Carmichael mine’s operations, and we’re proud to say that more than 10 per cent of the mine’s workforce are Indigenous people.”
Biodiversity Australia managing director Steve Noy said the partnership with Bravus Mining and Resources has been pivotal in enabling meaningful outcomes for Indigenous communities in North Queensland.
“Our engagement with Bravus Mining and Resources has created long-term opportunities – not just contracts,” he said.
“It has empowered us to invest in regional communities, expand our presence in Townsville, and support dozens of First Nations people into sustainable, purpose-driven careers.”
Biodiversity Australia’s collaboration with Bravus began in 2018 through the Carmichael Rail Network, delivering environmental consultancy and on-ground services in ecology, vegetation management, and fauna management.
From day one, the company activated its award-winning Indigenous Pathways Model – a mentorship and training framework designed to increase Indigenous workforce participation.
This foundational partnership enabled Biodiversity Australia to establish a permanent north Queensland office in Townsville, which has since grown into a thriving operation.
The Townsville office delivers services across mining and heavy industry, defence, tourism, and education sectors.
Through the Indigenous Pathways Model, the company not only creates jobs, but also removes traditional barriers to workforce participation, offering flexible and culturally aware employment solutions that prioritise both family and community.
The QRC Indigenous Awards will be presented at a Gala Dinner in Brisbane on June 25.
