Victorian Women in Resources Awards

The Victorian Women in Resources Awards recognise and promote diversity across Victoria’s minerals industry.

Hosted by MCA Victoria, the awards recognise professional success, leadership, and advocacy of women working in the Victorian resources sector.

The awards aim to provide a platform for women to be role models and encourage more women into the mining industry.

2026 Victorian award winners:

• Exceptional Woman in Resources – Jody Altmann, Manager Minin – GHD
• Exceptional Young Woman in Resources – Stevie Child, Undergraduate Mining Engineer – Alkane Resources
• Outstanding Trade Operator or Technician – Sarah Berkin, Core Shed Manager – Southern Cross Gold
• Gender Diversity Champion – Narelle Burns Technical and IT Manager – Alcoa Portland Aluminium.
• Technological Innovation Award – Man Ching, Analyst AI/Machine Learning – Newmont
• Excellence in Company Programs and Performance – ISH 24 Safety & Rescue

Thank you to 2026 sponsors:

Gippsland Critical Minerals, VHM Limited, WIM Resources, Agnico Eagle, Southern Cross Gold Consolidated, Alkane Resources, Aureka Limited, Government Partner – Resources Victoria

Award Categories

Exceptional Woman in Resources

This award recognises the exceptional achievements of women in the Victorian resources sector, in any occupation. It recognises professional success and leadership skills, resilience, methods of overcoming barriers and seeking out and accepting new responsibilities and challenges.

This work may include a commitment to community engagement and development, contributing to inclusion and diversity within the sector and sustainability initiatives.

Exceptional Young Woman in Resources

This award recognises a woman aged 30 or under who has demonstrated outstanding promise in Victoria’s resources sector. It celebrates early career achievement, leadership, resilience, and significant milestones, as well as contributions to inclusion, diversity, sustainability, or community engagement.

Outstanding Tradeswoman, Operator or Technician in Victorian Resources

This award recognises the achievement of women currently working in trade, operational or technician roles in Victoria’s resources industry. The award recognises achievement in breaking new ground for women in non-traditional careers as well as resilience, achievement of goals and support for gender diversity.

Exceptional Woman in Resources Technological Innovation

This award recognises a woman who has made a significant impact through technological innovation in Victoria’s resources sector. It celebrates the development of new technologies or the innovative application of existing technologies to solve challenges, improve practices, or drive transformation.

Inclusion and Diversity Champion in Victorian Resources

This award recognises an individual of any gender who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in advocating for the attraction, inclusion, retention, and advancement of women in the Victorian resources sector. It celebrates sustained commitment to cultural change through advocacy, mentoring, and impactful initiatives.

Excellence in Company Programs and Performance

This award recognises a resources company or subsidiary for excellence and innovation in inclusion and diversity programs within the Victorian resources sector.
Strong consideration is given to organisations that have increased the representation of women in non‑traditional roles, including senior management, engineering, science, operations, and trades.