Spending her childhood on the ocean, Mia Holloway always thought she would become a marine biologist. Instead, her interest in the natural world led her to environmental science and a graduate role with Stanmore Resources.
“I grew up on a sailboat; I spent my whole childhood on the ocean. At age four I started using cups to scoop up fish, seahorses, cuttlefish and all sorts of things from the sides of the marina docks to make aquariums to show my dad when he got home from work.
“So of course, growing up I wanted to be a marine biologist.”
That early fascination stayed with her, but as she got older Mia began thinking more broadly about where it could lead.
“I started looking for a degree that could get me into the marine industry but also provide a broader range of career opportunities. A Bachelor of Environmental Science was perfect, majoring in Ecology and Conservation.
“By the time I started the degree I had a very open mind about what my career would look like. I knew I enjoyed learning about the natural world and being outdoors, so the degree and career opportunities were perfect for me.
“Throughout my study I became clearer about my interests, passions, and strengths. I had always considered mining as an option while studying, particularly after realising I enjoyed the environmental project and environmental management courses.”
After graduating, Mia spent a few months travelling before beginning the search for her first role, applying for environmental positions across Queensland and Western Australia.
“I knew I wanted to join a graduate program where I could develop real-world skills and apply the knowledge I’d gained in a practical setting.
“The resources industry stood out to me because of its well-structured graduate programs and the opportunities it offers for early career development.”
That search led her to Stanmore Resources, where she joined as a Graduate Environmental Officer.
“As a graduate my days have looked completely different to each other. Sometimes I am in the Brisbane corporate office assisting with compliance and assurance, and other times I am on site, involved in fieldwork such as water and dust monitoring, site inspections, water and rehabilitation management.
“I love the variety it offers. I enjoy the balance of fieldwork and office-based work, and I love that I learn from both site and corporate perspectives.
“Maybe the biggest surprise is how much of the role focuses on water management. It’s a key part of mining, and it involves working closely with production teams, to ensure water is managed responsibly and environmental obligations are met.”
That close involvement with different parts of an operation has also taught her that environmental outcomes are not achieved by one team working alone.
“I’ve learned that strong communication and relationships are key to success in any role in any industry. Particularly as site enviro, working effectively with different departments and understanding their priorities is essential for achieving positive environmental outcomes.
“Building strong relationships helps create collaboration and ensures environmental considerations are integrated into day-to-day operations.”
Another area Mia has become involved in is mine rehabilitation, including the implementation of Progressive Rehabilitation and Closure Plans (PRCPs), which guide how disturbed land is rehabilitated and managed towards closure.
“It’s been interesting seeing how they are being put into practice, including the development of new systems and processes to support their effective delivery and long-term outcomes.
“I’m still figuring out what my career looks like, still being exposed to new parts of the industry, and I want to keep learning as much as I can.
“It’s been exciting to see how important rehabilitation is becoming and the significant role it will play in the future of mining. Being involved in that space is something I’d really love to be part of.”
Her advice to others starting out is to give themselves the same freedom to see where their interests take them.
“My advice would be to keep an open mind and say yes to as many new opportunities as possible. You won’t know if you enjoy something until you give it a go.”
