Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Richelle Tomkins and I’m a Training Coordinator, Trainer & Accessor, Trainee Deputy and the Female Representative for the Queensland District Board of Management.
When did you start in the mining industry and what was your first job?
I started in coal mining in 2017 as one of three women employed as operators at Broadmeadows Underground. I worked on a lifestyle roster doing bolting and secondary support and was the only female on my shift.
How different is your job now to what you wanted to be when you were a kid?
As a kid, I didn’t really know what I wanted to be – I just knew I wanted to have a family and be a mum. Growing up in a regional town in the late ’70s, I never imagined a career in an industry like coal mining was even possible for me.
What’s a usual day at work entail?
No two days are the same for me! A typical day starts with pre-shift and a zero-harm briefing before heading into a training session for new workers, or sometimes safety sessions covering topics like dust control, no-go zones, and SOP compliance. As a supervisor, I also monitor site conditions and hazards, making sure everyone is safe and okay.
What’s the best thing about your job?
My favourite part of the job is watching new coal miners come through and helping them build the knowledge, skills, and confidence to thrive onsite. I have plenty of “proud mum moments”, one young guy who started with me is now in Mines Rescue and working toward his deputy’s ticket.
I also love supporting the women onsite. Many are around my daughters’ ages and I take pride in celebrating their successes and seeing them grow.
The worst thing?
Knowing how quickly conditions can change. The underground environment can become unpredictable in seconds.
It’s also tough being away from my family. These roles and rosters can be demanding, and balancing work and family life can be a real challenge. It’s just me and my daughters, so our time together is precious.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome?
The biggest challenge has been being a woman in a male-dominated industry. Each time someone new joins the crew they often come with preconceived ideas about what I can or can’t do based on my gender.
Stepping into a leadership role has also pushed me out of my comfort zone, but it’s been incredibly rewarding.
What’s something about your job that would surprise people to know?
How close we are underground; it’s like a second family. We rely on each other, look out for each other, and build strong bonds that go beyond the job.
What’s your best advice for people entering the industry?
Listen and learn from the experienced people around you. There’s no such thing as a stupid question. And take safety seriously from day one – it’s the most important part of the job.
The mining industry gets more than its fair share of criticism. What is your view of our industry and the impact it has?
A lot of people don’t see the full picture of what coal mining does for our country. It creates thousands of stable jobs and keeps regional towns and communities alive. Mining is about more than just coal, it’s about people, livelihoods, and the communities built off the back of it.
