The Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia (CME) has revealed 18 finalists for the 2023 Women In Resources Awards (WIRA).
Now into its 14th year, WIRA aims to recognise the power of gender diversity in Western Australian mining and resources, and highlights the outstanding efforts of individuals and companies to deliver progress in this area.
There are over 110 nominations for the 2023 awards, with nominees performing a wide range of on and off-site roles for operations around the state.
Three mining and resources sector companies have also been chosen as finalists in the outstanding company initiative category.
“WIRA is an exceptionally significant event in our calendar – and showcases some of the very best people and initiatives in our sector,” CME CEO, Rebecca Tomkinson, said.
“Gender diversity is an incredibly important topic for WA mining and resources, and CME member companies are committed to recognising, promoting and continuing to support it in all that they do.
“The 14 women, one man and three companies that make up our 2023 WIRA finalists are the embodiment of that commitment.”
Ms Tomkinson said CME and its member companies are proud of the growth in female participation in the industry over the past decade, particularly the increasing number of women occupying leadership roles.
“We also recognise that gender diversity remains an area in which there is still significant work to be done. It’s crucial that we have events like WIRA to celebrate the extremely valuable contributions being made by women in the WA mining and resource sector and shine a light on the amazing career opportunities that are out there.”
The 2023 WIRA presentation dinner will be held at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre on Friday March 31.
The 2023 finalists
Outstanding Young Woman in Resources Award
Chien Foo, Shell Australia
Kelsie Clarke, Woodside Energy
Tan Farquhar, Rio Tinto
Outstanding Operator/Technician/Trade Award
Fiona Larsen, Rio Tinto
Mel McLellan, Rio Tinto
Melinda Clarke, Woodside Energy
Outstanding Woman in Resources Award
Chantel Westley, Rio Tinto
Jayne Baird, Woodside Energy
Shelley Robertson, Mineral Resources
Technological Innovation Award
Kylie McKay, Rio Tinto
Samantha Langley, BHP
Sarah Anderson, Chevron
Women in Resources Champion Award
Jessica Farrell, BHP
Michael Erickson, AngloGold Ashanti
Sandy Sibenaler, South32
Outstanding Company Initiative Award
BHP – FutureFit Academy
Rio Tinto – Building Everyday Respect
Woodside Energy – Gender Equality Matters
