The 2025 QRC/WIMARQ Resources Awards for Women was a celebration of the incredible women working in the Queensland resources sector as well as an opportunity to celebrate how far we’ve come.
Congratulations to all the winners and finalists.
Exceptional Woman
Jackie Rose’Meyer – Head of Capital Studies & Projects, Glencore
With over 30 years of experience in the resources sector, Jackie Rose’Meyer has built an exceptional career as a leader in project management and capital studies. Holding dual degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Commerce, she has managed multi-billion-dollar portfolios across Australia, Mongolia, India and Africa. Known for nurturing diverse and high-performing teams, Jackie champions inclusivity and has mentored female engineers while advocating for workplace equity. She volunteers as a director for the National Parks Association of Queensland, where she played an instrumental role in developing their Code of Conduct and Anti-Discrimination policies, both of which encourage and advocate for inclusion and diversity.
“There are a lot of women here today who have been finalists and winners of this award, women I have worked with before and I really look up to. When people can see a visible role model they then have that to aspire to, and that is very important for young females. It’s incredible to see how far the mining industry has come, I think that we still have a lot of work to do but it is an industry I would be proud to encourage my children to consider.”
Exceptional Young Woman
Ashley McCarthy-Griffiths – Principal Business Improvement, Stanmore
Ashley McCarthy-Griffiths is an influential advocate for diversity in STEM and mining. With a dual degree in Engineering and International Business, Ashley has led technological advancements at BHP and Stanmore, delivering projects valued at over $50 million. She was the first female Maintenance Supervisor at Caval Ridge Mine in five years, increasing team diversity and fostering a high-performance culture. As President of Power of Engineering, Ashley has inspired nearly 15,000 students to consider STEM careers.
“As a little girl I never dreamt my career would lead to me wearing hivis and steel capped boots everyday but now I could not picture it any other way. I thoroughly enjoy improving our mining industry for the future and with this award I hope to continue to drive our industry forward for a safe, inclusive and productive future.”
Exceptional Woman in Technological Innovation
Dr Nikky LaBranche – Dust and Respiratory Health Program Lead, The University of Queensland
Dr Nikky LaBranche is a pioneering leader in dust and respiratory health research at The University of Queensland, transforming worker safety in Queensland’s mining industry. Her groundbreaking adaptation of the Mineral Liberation Analyser (MLA) for detailed coal dust characterisation revealed critical insights into mineral composition and particle size that influence respiratory health. Dr LaBranche’s work has driven dust control advancements, influenced industry standards and earned international recognition.
“As of the end of February there are 637 confirmed cases of mine dust lung disease in Queensland. That is 637 too many. Innovation and occupational health are not just about technology, it’s about rethinking how to prevent disease. Challenging the status quo, asking better questions, and leveraging everything we know about science to make sure our workers go home safe.”
Exceptional Tradeswoman/Technician/Operator
Kylee Frankee – Electrical & Instrument Technician, South32
Kylee Frankee is a passionate advocate for safety, inclusion and mentorship in the resources sector. With 16 years of industry experience, she empowers apprentices and colleagues through technical guidance, mental health advocacy and leadership development. Committed to fostering a culture of respect, Kylee champions open communication and psychological safety within her team. Beyond the workplace, she engages in educational outreach through initiatives like QMEA and AIEF, inspiring young people to pursue careers in trades.
“This recognition isn’t just about me; it’s a celebration of all the incredible women who are trailblazing in our industry and these platforms don’t just recognise women in our industry, they empower us and ensure that our contributions are seen and celebrated. Throughout my career many of my role models have been men, which is a testament to the men that are breaking down barriers alongside us.”
Inclusion and Diversity Champion
Chika Onyeogaziri – Superintendent Contracts Management, BHP
Chika Onyeogaziri is a vocal champion of inclusion and diversity at BHP, leading transformative initiatives through the EmBRace (Employees Beyond Race) Employee Resource Group. As the founder of EmBRace, she has raised awareness and acceptance of intersectional identities across BHP’s global operations. Her leadership has driven impactful initiatives, including launching a Racial Literacy Podcast and advising on inclusive policy reforms. Chika’s efforts have expanded cultural education, facilitated safe conversations and promoted equitable hiring practices.
“This award also belongs to all who have consistently walked towards fostering an inclusive culture for people. One day we will get to a place where inclusion and diversity is something that does not need to be spoken about but is ingrained in the system.”
Excellence in Diversity Programs and Performance
BMA Childcare Project
The BMA Childcare Project by BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) is changing the lives of families in the Isaac region. The project addresses critical childcare shortages and enhances access to early childhood and school-age care in Moranbah and Dysart. Key achievements include establishing the Childcare Leadership Alliance (CLA), recruiting more than 30 international educators, reducing waitlists by 50% and enabling approximately 100 families to access care. Designed for scalability, the initiative empowers childcare providers to meet community needs and sets a blueprint for addressing similar challenges across Queensland’s resource regions.
Jasmine Cadd, CLA Board Member accepted the award.
“It’s been an enormous collective effort, and the award is recognition to everyone who has been involved. We are so proud of what has been achieved over the last few years but there remains so much more to do to sustainably resolve the childcare challenges across the region and to ensure access to diverse care options to meet the needs of every child in the community.”
Exceptional Female QMEA Student
Jixie Navarro – Moranbah State High School
Jixie Navarro is a young woman with many talents – musician, gymnastics coach, youth leader and, above all, STEM enthusiast. Currently in Year 12 at Moranbah State High School, Jixie is following a trade/vocational study pathway with the aim of achieving her dream career as an electrical project engineer in the minerals or energy industries. Jixie is an active member of BHP’s Youth Advisory Council which she says has deepened her understanding of the resources sector and encouraged her to follow a career which can make a valuable contribution to the industry.
“QMEA opened the door for me, motivating my drive to pursue a career as an electrician in the resources sector and this award represents not just my efforts but the growing opportunities for women in the resources industry. It inspires me to continue breaking barriers and encouraging more young women to explore careers in the resources sector.”
