An engineering superintendent, a diesel fitter, a dragline operator, and a chief operating officer are among the 18 finalists for the 2026 Resources Awards for Women (RAW).

The annual Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and Women in Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ) awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of women across the state’s mining and resources sector.

In its twentieth year, the awards recognise women leading the way in operational, technical, professional, and leadership roles across coal, oil, gas, metals, and minerals.

QRC’s chief executive officer (CEO) Janette Hewson, a former Queensland Exceptional Woman in Resources awardee from 2015, said this year’s finalists were inspirational and reflected the breadth of growing talent across the state.

“These awards shine a light on the exceptional women, at all levels, shaping the future of Queensland’s resources sector and showing what’s possible,” Hewson said.

“Having more women working in resources strengthens productivity, attracts and retains talent, and ensures our industry has the skilled workforce it needs for the future.”

The industry body said this year’s 18 finalists across seven award categories, highlight women’s contributions to the sector.

WIMARQ co-chair Catherine Cook said each finalist had an inspiring story of impact and resilience, improving safety, lifting operational performance, solving complex technical challenges, strengthening communities, and championing diversity and inclusion.

“From emerging talent to senior leaders, these women are shaping the future of Queensland’s resource sector, and their achievements deserve to be celebrated and shared,” Cook said.

Hastings Deering managing director and CEO Mark Scott said he was proud of the five nominees from the company this year.

“Hastings Deering continues to drive diversity across its business and these awards mean a lot to myself and the team,” Scott said.

“We’re lucky to be represented by our exceptional talent in Brisbane and Rockhampton in Tiffany Kirkwood, Georgia Mehmet, Humaira Ehsan, Liberty Cullen, and Bec Wright.

“They are outstanding examples of tenacity, resilience, and talent for the entire industry.”

Award winners will be announced at the RAW awards ceremony on March 6 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, coinciding with International Women’s Day on March 8, and Queensland Women’s Week.

Tickets for the event, proudly presented by Anglo American, are on sale now and will include a forum followed by an awards lunch honouring exceptional leaders.

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