Who are you and what do you do?
I’m Lisa Campbell, a Multiskilled Operator at Thiess’ operations at Lake Vermont, where I’ve just celebrated 10 years at the site with Thiess and in the industry. I’m also an Emergency Response team member, Trainer and Assessor, Drug and Alcohol Tester, an active member of the Thiess Reconciliation Action Plan working group and an Indigenous Women in Mining Resources Australia delegate.
When did you start in the mining industry and what was your first job?
I began my mining career here at Lake Vermont with Thiess, back in 2015 as part of the Thiess Sisters in Mining program. I started as a Trainee Operator, and the first machine I trained on was a CAT 793D.
How different is your job now to what you wanted to be when you were a kid?
My father worked in mining and we lived a comfortable life. I didn’t really understand the term “mining’ and it didn’t occur to me to consider a career in this sector. I had goals to work, make money and buy a house, but I was unsure what I wanted to do and was going with the flow. My father encouraged me to pursue a career in mining and when I came across the Thiess Sisters in Mining Program I took the leap.
What’s a usual day at work entail?
My day starts with a pre-start meeting, then I spend the shift operating a loader and feeding coal into the ROM bin. I stay prepared at all times to respond to emergencies or provide first aid if needed.
What’s the best thing about your job?
Emergency Response Team training has given me invaluable skills that are useful both on-site and in everyday life. From first aid and firefighting to road crash and vertical rescue, I’m more confident than ever in my ability to step in if needed. Plus, our ERT are a great bunch and we work well together. I have absolute trust in these guys.
I can’t forget my crew. I spend more than half my time at work, so it’s important to build strong friendships along the way. One of my biggest achievements has been passing on my experiences to other Sisters coming through the mine and those looking to join the industry.
The worst thing?
Missing out on family events. I come from a large, close-knit family. But missing certain milestones is the sacrifice you take on when working away from home.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome?
Coming out of my shell. I’ve always been shy and reserved. Ten years later, I’m sure my crew wishes I would be quiet!
What’s something about your job that would surprise people to know?
I’m trained to fight fires, jump off high rise structures in vertical rescue gear, use a defibrillator, use road crash rescue tools to cut open a car, operate a loader and feed coal while trying not to let the bin run empty – all while managing life at home as a mum of three, with the support of a very understanding partner.
What’s your best advice for people about to enter the industry?
Have a go and don’t be afraid of change. We all had to start somewhere! You will get there, it just takes time.
The mining industry gets more than its fair share of criticism. What is your view of our industry and the impact it has?
Most of our towns need the mining industry to keep going. If the industry stops tomorrow, it would be devastating to a lot of businesses. A large percentage of people are affiliated with mining in one way or another. Every business, big or small, will be affected.
