Thiess Women in Hard Hats wins award

Thiess’ groundbreaking Indigenous Women in Hard Hats mining industry recruitment program has been recognised with a major industry award.

Under the program, Indigenous women have been recruited and trained for a variety of challenging roles at the Burton Coal Mine in the Bowen Basin, including the operation of some of the largest machinery on site.
The program won “Best Company Initiative” in the Queensland Resources Council Awards for Women which were presented at a breakfast ceremony in Brisbane this morning to coincide with the 100th International Women’s Day.

Thiess’ People Executive General Manager Simone Wetzlar said the company is extremely proud to have received the award.

“Thiess is committed to developing a rich and diverse workforce that not only reflects the communities in which we operate, but also provides real careers for our indigenous people,” Ms Wetzlar said.

Accepting the award on behalf of Thiess, Indigenous Women in Hard Hats recruit Madonna McLean said her fellow recruits wanted to send a message to women everywhere that the mining industry has fantastic opportunities for them.

“A lot of women probably view mining as a man’s world but that’s not the case. I’m now operating one of the huge dump trucks at Burton and I’ve enjoyed overwhelming support from all the trainers and our male colleagues,” Ms McLean said.

Ten women were selected for the mine readiness training, which has been conducted in Brisbane and Mackay. Training included personal development, employment skills and heavy vehicle simulations prior to the commencement of hands on training.