Resources sector to honour stars

NOMINATIONS are closing soon for the Queensland Resources Council’s annual Indigenous Awards, a night to celebrate excellence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation in the state’s resources sector.

Queensland Resources Council chief executive Ian Macfarlane said the awards, presented during National Reconciliation Week, provide the opportunity to showcase exceptional performance by indigenous and non-indigenous individuals, businesses and the support of their companies.

“It is our hope that the award winners will go on to be ambassadors for the sector, acting as role models and encouraging more indigenous people to join our sector,” Mr Macfarlane said.

“The awards are designed to celebrate the achievements of those companies and individuals making a real difference and to inspire others to do the same.

“As a sector that largely operates in regional and remote communities with indigenous populations, bridging the divide with tangible opportunities is of great priority.”

In 2006, indigenous people comprised three per cent of the state’s workforce in resources, whereas in 2016, it had grown to four per cent.

Queensland’s indigenous population is four per cent, which places the resources sector as one of the few industries with a genuine representation.

The awards are on May 28. Nominations close on April 23, 2018.