The Queensland government has announced the next step forward for the ResourcesQ initiative, appointing six industry experts to lead the partnership group.
ResourcesQ was launched by Premier Campbell Newman in November last year, as part of the 10-year strategy to boost growth and jobs in Queensland’s resources sector. This is encouraging news for those seeking mining and resource apprenticeships in Queensland.
“The ResourcesQ initiative delivers on our promise to provide better infrastructure and planning as well as grow the state’s resources sector as part of a four pillar economy,” Mr Newman said in a November 19 statement.
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Andrew Cripps revealed the appointment of the six industry leaders, who will provide strategic advice and recommendations to the local government and relevant communities.
“The partnership group will play a key role in ensuring broad industry consultation guides our strategic direction and that ResourcesQ addresses industry challenges,” Mr Cripps explained.
Former Chief Operating Officer of Xstrata’s North Queensland Copper Division and former Queensland Resources Council President Steve de Kruijff will chair the ResourcesQ Partnership Group. The other group members are:
– Dr Laurie Hammond: Chair of CRC Mining, an industry-driven centre for global mining research and innovation;
– Mr Theo Psaros: leading transport infrastructure consultant and former Chief Operating Officer of MetroCoal Limited;
– Mr Brendan Ostwald: Chief Executive Officer of mining services company Ostwald Bros Pty Ltd;
– Mr Gavin Becker: former Chief Executive Officer of Metallica Minerals Ltd; and
– Dr Julie Beeby: Queensland Resource Industry Ambassador since 2009 and former Chief Executive Officer of WestSide Corporation Limited.
Mr Cripps explained that these partners are highly experienced and respected across the resources industry and will “bring a unique perspective to the table”.
“I look forward to working closely with the group as we examine challenging concepts, ideas and opportunities to help create wealth and grow jobs in resources sector,” he said.
The next step forward for ResourcesQ includes the resources supply chain leaders’ workshop on April 4, where stakeholders in the resource sector’s supply chain will convene to discuss the future of the industry.
Five additional workshops will be held between April and June this year, enabling industry leaders to discuss their ideas and concerns about the future of the resources sector.
These workshops will collect all necessary information and opinions before the August 2014 forum, which is being held to finalise the shared vision and develop an action plan that suits all sectors of the resources industry.
“I am confident the outcome of these activities will be a strong and competitive resources sector as we prepare for future challenges and opportunities,” Mr de Kruijff concluded.
By Leanne de Toerkenczy, Public Relations Coordinator
