Rio Tinto : Jemma Callaghan named Outstanding NSW Tradeswoman at NSW Mining 2017 Industry and Suppliers’ Awards

Rio Tinto's Jemma Callaghan has been named Outstanding NSW Tradeswoman/Operator/Technician at the prestigious NSW Mining 2017 Industry and Suppliers' Awards.

The annual dinner event was organised by the NSW Minerals Council and held last night at the NSW Parliament House in Sydney.

Jemma, a Mobile Equipment Operator/Trainer Assessor at Rio Tinto's Mount Thorley Warkworth mine, was recognised for her commitment to workplace health and safety and mentorship of female employees at the site.

'I love working in mining. I'm very fortunate to work with so many amazing people and to have had some great mentors.

'Now as a team leader I have the opportunity give back and to encourage women to take a leap forward to embrace the opportunities available in our industry.

'I'm humbled to have received this award in a field of such strong finalists. Thank you to Rio Tinto and my co-workers at Mount Thorley Warkworth for their continued support' Jemma said.

Pictured: Jemma Callaghan with her Outstanding NSW Tradeswoman/Operator/Technician award

The dinner was attended by NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Skills and Small Business, The Hon John Barilaro and NSW Minister for Resources, Energy, Utilities and the Arts, The Hon Don Harwin MLC.

Mount Thorley Warkworth general manager Colin Mackey said 'The impact of Jemma's work on site has been tremendous.

'Alongside other members of our team, she has worked tirelessly to foster an inclusive culture within our workplace. We have seen great improvements in terms of productivity and safety as a result.'

Coal Australia managing director Sinead Kaufman said she was delighted by Jemma's win at the event.

'I am very proud of Jemma's achievement and her great contributions to championing inclusion and diversity within our operations. She sets a shining example for future Rio Tinto leaders.

'Congratulations to all of our finalists. They are a testament to our organisation and of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication' said Sinead.

Judith Marks, a graduate electrical engineer and Vanessa Wowchuk, a scheduling engineer were finalists the Exceptional Young Woman in Mining category.

Pearl Garrett, a senior mining engineer, was a finalist in the Gender Diversity Champion category.

Scott MacIntyre, principal advisor asset integrity, was a finalist in the Outstanding Contribution to Mining category.

Notes to editors

Jemma Callaghan has always held a keen interest in machinery and obtained her HR truck licence at age 21. She has fifteen years mobile equipment operating experience and has worked as a haul truck driver at coal, bauxite, iron ore and gold mine sites across New South Wales, Queensland, Northern Territory and Western Australia. She has further qualifications in training & assessment, a Certificate IV in Workplace Health & Safety and is currently studying for a Diploma in Workplace Health & Safety.

Jemma is an advocate for women in mining and uses her past experiences to mentor and develop those new and experienced in the industry. She is proud to be a role model to women in mining and looks forward to championing opportunities for other young women considering a future in the industry.