1/87Keiryn Archer: Pressure Welder for Downer at Rio TintoBundaberg’s Keiryn Archer is a Pressure Welder for Downer at Rio Tinto. His sister, Hayleye Archer nominated him, saying “he’s the hardest working guy I know.”“He’s forever trying to be excellent at what he does and provide an incredible life for his family,” she said.
Who is Queensland’s Mightiest Miner of 2024
The hunt for Qld’s mightiest miner is on with more than 80 nominees from across the state vying for the title. (Vote now)
2/87Josh Metcalf: Electrician at Whitehaven, Blackwater MineAccording to Mildred Day, one of the people that nominated him, Bundaberg’s Josh Metcalf is a hard working electrician working for the infrastructure and maintenance at the newly purchased Whitehaven site at the Blackwater Mine.
3/87Dan Clarke: Blast Hole Driller for Drillpro on Rig 24, Western QueenslandDan Clarke is a Bundaberg dad, working as a Blast Hole Driller for Drillpro out in Western Queensland on Rig 24.
4/87Malcolm Lambell: all-rounder working for Nitschke Energy at the Bowen BasementDescribed by his friend, Mitch Russo (who nominated him) as an all-rounder, who has worked everywhere along the Bowen Basement, according to Malcolm’s facebook profile, he works for Nitschke Energy.
5/87Chaim Bartholdt: Heavy Machine Operator at Curragh Mine, Blackwater for Golding. Gladstone’s Chaim Bartholdt works at the Curragh Mine as a Heavy Machine Operator for Golding driving dump trucks, and according to Anna McEvoy, who nominated him, because of his hard work and proving himself, Chaim has recently got his paperwork to operate the mine site dozers.
6/87Matthew Rackerman: Heavy Machine operator at Curragh mine, Blackwater.Pictured alongside his colleagues and friends, Gladstone’s Matthew Rackerman is a rear dump truck and dozer operator at the Curragh mine in Blackwater.
7/87Daniel Euston: Seal Crew underground miner at Ensham Mine, Emerald.Nominated by his friend and fellow miner, Jayke Ehmann (who is pictured on the right), Gladstone based Daniel Euston is a Seal Crew underground miner at the Ensham Mine, Emerald.
8/87Jayke Ehmann: Panel Production underground miner at Ensham Mine, Emerald.After nominating his friend and fellow miner, Daniel Euston (pictured on the left), Gladstone’s Jayke Ehmann, a Panel Production underground miner at Ensham Mine, has also through his hand in the ring for Queensland’s best miner.
9/87Trevor Jordan: Underground coal miner at the Grosvenor Coal Mine, Moranbah.Nominated by his wife, Rae Larsen, Twin Waters’ Trevor Jordan is a hard working underground coal miner at the Grosvenor Coal Mine in Moranbah.
10/87Wayne Partridge: Underground Deputy at Moranbah North Mine Moranbah local and proud Indigenous man, Wayne Partridge was nominated by his daughter, Stacy Patridge, after working in the mining industry for more than 20 years. “One of the hardest working 60 years old there is,” Stacy said. “He even manages a gym session before or after a 12-hour shift.”“He is a proud Indigenous bloke, who loves his family & enjoys all things 4WD/Fishing.”
11/87Steven Poznik: Underground Miner at the Dugald River Mine, Northern QueenslandA fifo underground miner at the Dugald River Mine in Northern Queensland, Steven Poznik has also created a clothing brand for miners and fifo families called Dirty Hole Designs. “It is through this company he raises funds in the name of highlighting the issues of mental health struggles in the mining industry (after losing a friend to suicide at work),” his wife, Bonnie Poznik said. “I believe he has so far raised more than $50k for the black dog institute and miners promise,” she said.
12/87James Fegatilli: Leading hand of his crew and miner driver in underground coal at the Bowen BasinNominated by his wife, Jess Fegatilli, Cairns local James Fegatilli is a leading hand of his crew and miner driver in underground coal at the Bowen Basin, as well as a trainer assessor and member of the Queensland Mines Rescue Service. “I’m the proud wife of the best miner going,” Jess said. “I have no doubt that all of his crewmates, supervisors & deputies would confidently say he is the hardest worker who puts his heart & soul into his job.”“He makes so many sacrifices working the job he does, all so he can provide the very best life for our little family. I’m forever grateful.”
13/87Michael Yeats: Heavy Equipment Operator for Buma Mining at Nanango Coal MineNominated by his wife, Shay Yeats, Michael Yeats has been at the same coal mine for last 20 years, and currently works as a heavy equipment operator for Buma mining at the Nanango Coal Mine. “The Mine was first owned by contractors: Rio, Theiss, Meandu and now Buma; he’s seen it change and develop over those years,” Shay said.“His main role is driving the big D11 Dozer.”“Thank you for your timeless days and nights, as a father and husband! Truly amazing and appreciated of the contribution you do in the mining industry,” Shay wrote to her husband in the nomination.
14/87Daniel Bowker: Electrician for QTEM at Curragh Mine, Blackwater.Rockhampton’s Daniel Bowker works as an Electrician for QTEM at the Curragh Mine in Blackwater.Nominated by his mum, Tina Walker, she said that Daniel is a very hard worker, who never takes time off. “He did an apprenticeship in the mines as an electrician at 18 years old, now at 32 he still travels DIDO to work.”
15/87Scott Crane: Superintendent at the Lake Vermont MineRockhampton local Scott Crane has been in the mining industry for 27 years, previously at the Curragh North Coal Mine, Scott is now working at the Lake Vermont Mine.
16/87Jacob McCabe: field maintenance electrician and part time supervisor at the BMA Blackwater MineNominated by his friend, Brad Sullivan, Jacob McCabe is a fearless part time supervisor and field maintenance electrician at the BMA Blackwater Mine.
17/87Radar Duffield: Underground fitter at Carborough Downs Mine.Nominated by his friend and colleague, Cain Oldfield (who he is pictured alongside), Mackay local, Radar Duffield works as an underground fitter at the Carborough Downs Mine. “If you know Carborough the machines always break down and he is always laying in a pool of oil changing hoses with a smile on his face,” Cain Oldfield said. “He is the one in the picture with the black on his face and the other one is me.”
18/87Celise Erin-Fing: Field Service Administrator/Fleet Controller at Hastings DeeringNominated by her husband, Jake Cooper-Fing, Mackay’s Celise Erin-Fing is a Field Service Administrator/Fleet Controller at Hastings Deering. “She’s a rockin mum and my gorgeous wife,” Jake said. “She organises all new vehicles for the Field Service boys and tooling etc.”“She’s a bloody rock star and my rock. She gave me three perfect children and deserves the world.”
19/87Cameron Dejager: Mechanical fitter at FMG, Port Hedland.Nominated by Riley Bradbury, Cameron Dejager is a Mechanical fitter at FMG, Port Hedland, and according to Riley, the best filter belt maintenance technician he’s ever met.“The guy can clamp belts with his eyes shut,” he said. “Not to mention he is very good with the ladies and drives a very cool G6E Falcon Turbo.”
20/87Lloyd Bull: Site Manager for Thiess Australia at Sonoma MineNominated by Missy Moo, Mackay’s Lloyd Bull works as a Site Manager for Thiess Australia at Sonoma Mine, who according to Missy, is a dedicated leader and mentor whose contributions to the mining community are unparalleled.“Lloyd’s extensive background includes service in both the QLD Police Force and the Australian Army, where he demonstrated exceptional dedication and commitment to protecting and serving others,” she said.“These experiences have shaped him into a person of unwavering integrity and reliability.”
21/87Zenith Berrill: Conveyor Technician/ Belt splicer for Continental ConveyorsAmong four of the people Dean Moffatt nominated for the state’s best miner, Zenith Berrith takes the cake in Dean’s eyes. “We work for Continental Conveyors, he is a Conveyor Technician/ Belt Splicer,” Dean said. “I’ve been working with Kenny for about a year and a half now, his hard work and dedication is second to none,” he continued. “He used to fly in and out of Brisbane, but his dedication to his work has now moved him and his family to the local area contributing to the local economy.”“Day in day out, he displays an amazingly positive attitude and his knowledge on the industry is remarkable!”
22/87Neil Collard: Diesel fitter and director of Neil’s Heavy Diesel, BMA Blackwater MineDescribed by his friend, Harry Jones as one of the best and is dedicated to the scoops, Neil Collard is a qualified Diesel fitter and the director of Neil’s Heavy Diesel at BMA Blackwater Mine.“He loves to whinge 99% of the day but loves to hook in 100% of the time,” Harry said.
23/87Andrew Jeffrey: Underground drill specialist at Maintenance Techniques.Recently coming back from working in PNG for the last four months, Andrew Jeffery has been all around Australia and overseas working as a drill specialist at the mining company, Maintenance Techniques. “There we specialise in underground development and production drill rigs for underground hard rock mine sites, and supply training to the site fitters, as well developing and supplying aftermarket parts and supplying labour,” he said.Andrew has worked in the mining industry for 14 years now.
24/87Bill Lalic: Mechanical Fitter for D. A. C MiningLiving at the coal face, Bill Lalic was nominated by his friend, Todd Bailey, who said Bill’s dedication and hard work to his craft is second to none.A mechanical fitter for D. A. C Mining, Todd said that Bill doesn’t take days off and is always on the job.“It’s a genuine passion of his,” he said. “His work ethic is insurmountable and his acceptance of working anywhere anytime is a testament to him.”“He is a great asset to any business.”
25/87Justin Connaghan-Harris: Laboratory Technician at Osborne Mines, DajarraTownsville’s Justin Connaghan-Harris is a Laboratory Technician at Osborne Mine, specialising in a gold process called fire assay. “Osborne Mines is a copper gold mine near Phosphate hill, in the Dajarra region,” he said. “I’m a FIFO worker with four young kids, doing week on week off,” he wrote in the comments of the Townsville Bulletin callous. “Veteran and I know my number, and won’t lie about not having 2 degrees.”“Vote me for Mayor 2024 bi election.”
26/87Nigel Kuipers: Eagle DrillingNominated by his daughter, Chrissy Kuipers, Townsville’s Nigel Kuipers has been in the mining industry for over 35 years now, and currently works for Eagle Drilling.
27/87Glen McDonald: Dozer Operator at Batchfire mine, Biloela.According to his friend, Mark Lutter (who nominated him), Glen McDonald is regarded as one off the best dozer operators out there, working at the Batchfire mine in Biloela.“He’s been in mining for 6 years now,” Mark said. “He definitely needs a shout out for hard work and dedication, as well as being away from his family and kids which is very tough.”
28/87Nicholas Pianeda: Mining Contractor at Radlink CommunicationsAccording to Emmy Pianeda (who nominated him), Nicholas Pianeda is a dedicated and industrious mining contractor at Radlink Communications.“Renowned for his unwavering loyalty and tireless work ethic, Nicholas is a ‘yes man’ who tackles every task with determination, ensuring it is completed safely and on time,” Emmy said,“His creative problem-solving skills and approachable nature make him an invaluable asset to any team.”“Nicholas’s positive attitude, enthusiasm, and caring demeanour contribute to his reputation as the go-to reliable guy for any challenge.”
29/87Luke Row: Excavator Operator for BumaNominated by Justin Beresford, Rockhampton’s Luke Row is an Excavator Operator for Buma.
30/87Josh Hultgren: Underground Longwall Operator for HD Mining at Oaky North Mine, Bowen Basin.Nominated by his partner, Te Arai Evans, Josh Hultgren is an underground longwall operator for HD Mining, working at Oaky North Mine, Bowen Basin. “He is facing the unspoken of near misses of being underground at work constantly, then when he’s home his work isn’t over being a father of three,” Te Arai said.
31/87Tegan Buckley: Truck Operator at the Bowen BasinAccording to Melissa Crowley (who nominated her), Tegan Buckley is one of the best Tegan Buckley is one of the best truck operators in the Bowen Basin.
32/87Ashley Louise: Pit Operator for HSE at the South Walker Creek Mine, StrathfieldNominated by Jayson Wyatt, Ashley Louise currently works for HSE, at the South Walker Creek Mine as an operator in the pit. “I’ve come a long way since the first photo, that was the day I got passed out off minimal 4 years ago,” Ashley said.
33/87 Jack Morrison: Drill and Blast Crew- Shotfirer at Olive Downs Complex
34/87Colin Beavis: Coal mining Loader Operator at Peak Downs mine Working both underground and open cut, Colin Beavis is a Coal mining Loader Operator at Peak Downs mine. According to his mate and co-worker, William Pietzner (who nominated him), Colin is ‘one of the hardest working blokes’ that he knows.
35/87Justin Locher: Auto Electrician for JMACS Auto Electrics at Hail Creek Mine
36/87Dean Fielding: Electrician at the Bowen BasinNominated by his son, Brayden Fielding, Dean Fielding has been an electrician at the Bowen Basin for 28 years now.“He is not only the hardest worker but the best dad,” Brayden said.
37/87Michael McAlpine: Underground Mechanical Fitter for Fenner Dunlop MackayNominated by his partner, Janita Fox, Michael McAlpine is an underground mechanical fitter for Fenner Dunlop Mackay.“He is an amazing partner, dad and mate with such a forgiving and caring heart,” Janita said. “And always having such a positive outlook on all situations – good or bad.”“You’re Guaranteed a laugh whenever you’re with Mick!”
38/87Matt Shields: Underground Electrician at Moranbah MineNominated by his mate, Nick Kinbacher, Matt Shields works as Underground Electrician at Moranbah Mine. “He has just lost his best mate Landy in the photo with him, so this might be a bit of a laugh to make Shieldsy feel a bit better,” Nick said.
39/87Matt Jackson: Underground Fitter at North Goonyella Mine Nominated by his friend and co-worker, Nick Harriott, Matt Jackson is an underground fitter at the North Goonyella Mine. “Matt is a champion and always there at the end of shift cleaning the coal mud off everyone’s hose (while a lot of people are lazy and wouldn’t do it),” Nick said.
40/87Sean ‘Robbo’ Robinson: Mighty Number 1 Dozer Operator at Wilkie Creek Coal Mine. Nominated by Trac Gooderham, Sean “Robbo” Robinson is a Mighty Number 1 Dozer Operator at Wilkie Creek Coal Mine. “Robbo will always go out of his way to bring a smile to your face and a laugh to the crib hut,” Trac said. “He is always turning up first on site to spread his gift of the gab, I’m not even sure he even went home. Never took a sick day, because I don’t even think the mighty ones get sick,” she continued. “Always going that extra mile to push the tonnes, because as Robbo says himself, ‘If you’re not shifting dirt, you can’t make them …”“Definitely the mightiest miner of the century. You won’t find another bloke quite like him!”
41/87Josh Quin: Tyre Fitter along various mines at the Bowen BasinNominated by Joel McKee, Josh Quin works Tyre Fitter throughout various mines at the Bowen Basin. “He does a great job in his role, is a top bloke and the women love him,” Joel said.
42/87Raymond Dan: Rigger supervisor for Ausgroup in Mackay. Nominated by his partner, Jade Ahuriri, Raymond Dan is a rigger supervisor for Ausgroup around Mackay, currently working at Middlemount. ““Raymond is honestly the hardest working man I have met,” Jade said. “He deserves the world and recognition for all his hard work, and also the fact of leaving his family, friends and partner behind to get ahead in life.”
43/87Tiffany Holmes: Truck/ Water Cart operator at Peak Downs MineNominated by Jayde Portell, Tiffany Holmes is a Truck/ Water Cart operator at Peak Downs Mine. “She has everyone’s back, is a total mum of the crew, and is a hard worker who never says no and never misses a beat,” Jayde said.
44/87 Bandy Bongo: Truck Operator at Peak Downs MineNominated by Jayde Portell, Bandy Bongo is a Truck Operator at Peak Downs Mine.“He’s a kind, honest and respectful person who always shows up,” Jayde said.
45/87Nadiya Dowson: Truck Operator at Peak Downs MineNominated by Jayde Portell, Nadiya Dowson is a Truck operator at Peak Downs Mine.She’s an absolute life of the party, always happy and bubbly, and brings the best vibes to whoever she comes across,” Jayde said.
46/87Daniel Portell: Dozer Operator at Peak Downs MineNominated by Jayde Portell, Daniel Portell is a Dozer operator at Peak Downs Mine. “He’s a hard worker, is dedicated, fair and an outstanding operator,” Jayde said.
47/87Mathew Brooks: Underground miner for Anglo American at Aquila Mine. Stationed underground at the Aquila Mine, Matthew Brook is currently working Anglo American as a miner driver in the development panel. According to Peter McPhail (who nominated him), Matt is a passionate miner who respects the industry and the contribution it makes to our society.“He works hard for his employers and really enjoys working with the crews of men,” Peter said.“He is a positive, dynamic fun loving person who works hard and is proud of the coal industry.”Matthew is also currently studying for a mining third class ticket.
48/87Angus Stewart: Airleg Miner at George Fisher Mine.Nominated by Joel Stewart, Angus Stewart: Airleg Miner working with resin mesh rehabilitation the George Fisher Mine. "The Gus bus most solid miner I know," Joel said.
49/87Ray Johnston: Water Treatment Technician at Blackwater Mine Currimundi local Ray Johnston works as a Water treatment technician at the Blackwater Mine
50/87Levi Francis: Underground coal miner for Ironbark at Bowen Basin Nominated by his partner, Marie Renshaw, Levi Francis is an underground coal miner working for Ironbark at Bowen Basin.
51/87Lachlan Jackson: Driller at the Snowy Hydro Nominated by Sam Armitage, Hervey Bay local Lachlan Jackson works as Driller at the Snowy Hydro.“He has a great work ethic and knowledge well beyond his years,” Sam said.“He is always keen to help lend a hand getting greenies up to speed in a high pace industry.”
52/87Ken Deakes: Underground supervisor for BlackRock at Carborough Downs Mine. Nominated by his wife, Jaime Deakes, Ken Deakes has been in the mining industry for 20 years now, and is currently working as an Underground supervisor for BlackRock at the Carborough Downs Mine.“He is the most supportive husband/ Father anyone could have,” Jaime said.
53/87Luke Stenhouse: Plumber at Blackwater mine.Nominated by Brayden Jones, Luke Stenhouse works as Plumber at Blackwater mine. "He's a hard worker and has an awesome never give up attitude," Brayden said.
54/87Ellie Haynes: Miner for Fidler Industrial Nominated by fellow miner Celise Erin-Fing, Ellie Haynes, who is only new to the industry, has shown her commitment to her role at Fidler Industrial, as well as making her roster work around raising her six year old child. "She's even had the balls to call out low behaviour and harassment from other women toward men in the workplace which takes guts," Celise said.
55/87Deon Hayes: Workshop Diesel Fitter for Fitzroy MiningNominated by his good friend Dale Williams, Deon Hayes works as a Workshop Diesel Fitter for Fitzroy Mining. "Deon is just one of the most genuine blokes out there and is always keen to help anyone out," Dale said. "He puts in 110% in every day.""He wouldn’t let me take a photo so I had to sneak this one quickly."
56/87Isaac Dickinson: Geologist at Glencore Coal According to his mate, Pat Evans (who nominated him), Isaac Dickinson is the best geologist in Queensland. "He uniquely communicates with rocks, deeply understanding their stories and his intuitive sense guides groundbreaking discoveries, while his unwavering commitment to ethical practices ensures sustainable development, benefiting both the environment and the country," Pat said. A geologist at Glencore Coal, Isaac's passion and integrity set him apart from others. "His favorite rock, affectionately nicknamed Trevor, is a testament to his dedication," Pat continued. "All his mates love and respect him for his expertise and genuine character."Sharing a few funny facts about Isaac, Pat said that his favourite hobbies are Blind folded sudoku and perfecting a Portuguese Tart, and that he holds the underground record for most Yakults consumed in 1 minute.
57/87TJ Le’Mon: Contract Manager/HSE Manager in PNG for Quest Exploration Drilling. Serving in the mining industry for 14 years now, TJ Le’Mon works as a Contract Manager/HSE Manager for Quest Exploration Drilling. He is currently mining at a Gold Mine in the Mountains of PNG, where he manages 8 drill rigs (2 Diamond Rigs, 3 Drill and Blast Rigs and 3 RC Rigs) TJ is passionate about the Ocean, Surfing, Diving and Exploration, is a Family Orientated man with a good heart.
58/87Michael Wilson: Underground Health and Safety Manager at Mount Isa MinesNominated by his daughter, Jess Wilson, Michael Wilson has served in the mining industry for 38 years now, and is currently working as a Underground Health and Safety Manager at the Mount Isa Mines. “He has made a significant contribution to the mining industry over the last 38 years, with a variety of roles in mines across the nation and New Zealand,” Jess said. “His current leadership position at Mount Isa Mines is a culmination of years of experience and expert knowledge committing to a highly skilled, zero harm workplace.”
59/87Mitchell Carter: Miner Driver at the Oaky Creek North Underground MinesA third generation coal miner, Mitchell Carter was nominated by his friend Scott Sullivan, who has named him the ‘Best in the Bowen Basin.’“Just a proper coal pig doing his best to keep this country going,” Scott said. “His motto is ‘without coal Australia stops’; he is honest hard working bloke with a good attitude!”“Rumour has it he is the best miner driver in the Bowen Basin, and I’ve never met a bloke who loves mining more then him.”
60/87Ryan Goudie: Boilermaker at Baralaba Coal Mine Nominated by Shae Trice, Ryan Goudie is Boilermaker at the Baralaba Coal Mine.
61/87Gerald Vandaele: Underground Coal miner at Oaky North Coal Mine. A 47 year old Underground Coal miner with 20+ years experience, Gerald Vandaele is a fourth generation underground miner currently working at the Oaky North Coal Mine.“My great, great grandfather was an underground miner, my grandfather was an underground miner, & my father (deceased) was an underground miner, & in 2004 I decided to follow my father’s footsteps and become a miner,” Gerald said. “I started working at Oaky North Coal Mine as a Contractor in 2004 then I moved on and worked for various companies, but the best company that I had worked for 12.5 years was Wilson Mining doing ground consolidation,” he continued. “I reckon it takes a special breed of person to be able to go underground for 12-14 hours per day 7 days a week to be able to do such a job as underground mining as it’s a very dangerous profession if you don’t know what you’re doing.”“I have lost some very good mates to mining accidents, as you really have to constantly think about your safety, the safety of others and know what to do if the inevitable takes place.”Gerald has decided to hang up his hard hat and belt in April of 2024, saying that since he worked in the mines he has missed a lot, like watching his kids grow up, etc.
62/87Scott Erntner: HR manager and cleaner at BMA Blackwater Nominated by Ashley Smithson, Scott Erntner is a HR manager and cleaner at BMA Blackwater.
63/87Bronwyn Kidd: Auto Electrician at Caval Ridge, Moranbah Nominated by Charlie Kidd, Bronwyn Kidd is Auto Electrician at Caval Ridge Moranbah. "Bronwyn is a hard working determined worker," Charlie said. "She is easy going and someone who you would trust in a dilemma."
64/87Jason Bird: Machine Operator at Dawson Mine, Moura Nominated by Lana Maynard, Jason Bird works as a Machine Operator at Dawson Mine, Moura."He's the best dozer walker and delineation pro," Lana said.
65/87Kurt Jones: Driller at Coldwell Drilling, Coppabella. Nominated by his older sister, April Jones, Kurt Jones works as a Driller for Coldwell Drilling, Coppabella. "A gentle giant, and good looking rooster at 6"1, Kurt is a quiet achiever who is always fine tuning his skills in mining and life in general," April said. "Kurt values meaningful relationships, is a deep thinker and is down to earth." "One of his favourite songs by Lynyrd Skynyrd 'Simple Man' represents him well."
66/87Morgan Webster: Electrician at the Jellinbah Mine (Bluff - Tropic of Capricorn) Nominated by Laine Hughes, Morgan Webster works as an electrician at the Jellinbah Mine (Bluff - Tropic of Capricorn). "He's not just a mighty miner but a mighty Dad as well," Laine said.
67/87Amanda Brown: Heavy Machinery Operator at Dawson Mine, Moura. Nominated by Kylie Bateman, Amanda Brown works as a Heavy Machinery Operator at the Dawson Mine, Moura. “She’s the happiest nanny B truck driver,” Kylie said.
68/87Christopher Brown: Dragline Operator at Dawson Mine, MouraNominated by Kylie Bateman, Christopher Brown works as a Dragline Operator at the Dawson Mine, Moura.“He’s a hardworking brown dog,” Kylie said.
69/87Jackson Paulson: Driller at Lucas Drilling, Moranbah Nominated by Ricci Paulson, Jackson Paulson is a Driller at Lucas Drilling, Moranbah.“I’m very proud of the man he has become and everything he has overcome,” Ricci said.
70/87 Cassady Howie: Operator at South Walker Creek Coal Mine. Nominated by her friend, Stevie Moffat, Cassady Howie works as an Operator at the South Walker Creek Coal Mine.
71/87Greg Parter: Heavy Diesel Fitter for MADD industries Qld at Blair Athol, South Walker Creek Mine, PoitrelBorn and raised in Gladstone, 36 year old miner Greg Parter works as a Heavy Diesel Fitter for MADD industries Qld at Blair Athol, South Walker Creek Mine, Poitrel. With MADD industries, Greg has worked on dragline shutdowns, dump trucks, drills, dozer and digger maintenance, with his main specialty being all things drills and drill fitting. “In my opinion, I have done some of the hardest heavy diesel fitting anyone could experience,” he said. “I work out of a Ute with all my tools and chase the work.”
72/87Mitchell Huth: Mine Rescue Captain and Rehab Specialist at Meandu Coal MineNominated by Jaydon Orme, Mitchell Huth is a Mine Rescue Captain and Rehab Specialist at Meandu Coal Mine who is strongly looked up at the mine and leads by example as a future OCE or SSE. “As a gun operator, everyone strives to be at Mitch’s standard daily, and as ERT captain there hasn’t been an obstacle he couldn’t overcome,” Jaydon said. “He is truly a work horse in the mining industry.”“We love you, Mitch.”
73/87Mark Lund: Longwall Mechanical Fitter at Broadmeadow Mine. Nominated by Tim Hall, Mark Lund is a Longwall Mechanical Fitter at the Broadmeadow Mine, who (according to Tim), after starting his apprenticeship in the Bowen Basin in the early nineties, he has been an asset to many mines in the area.“The man the myth, the legend, Mark is always good for a yarn, and his hard work and dedication is something we can all aspire to,” Tim said.
74/87Parri Argow: Electrician for AB power at Curragh Mine, Blackwater.Nominated by Chenoa Biesler-Witts, Parri Argow is an electrician for AB power at Curragh Mine, Blackwater.“He absolutely adores his team and the company he works for, he’s almost running out the door when it hits Monday and it’s drive out day,” Chenoa said. “Mining is hard but he sure does make it look easy.”
75/87Shannon Galley: Leading Hand at Senoma MineNominated by several people, Shannon Galley, a Leading Hand at the Senoma Mine, has worked as fitter in the mines for more than 20 years now. “He’s seen a lot of changes in his life on the Mines,” Val Gorman (his future father in law and one of the people who nominated him) said. “Shannon is a warm and loving family man and would be a very deserving 2024 Qld’s Mightiest Miner Winner.”“Shannon is one of a million from being an amazing father to an incredible partner and family member,” Tiarna Young said in her nomination. “He’s always making people laugh with his humour and honesty, I can confidently say he excels in all he does from mediocre chores around the house to the workforce.”
76/87Warren Zurvas: Dust Suppression Operator for Buma at Blackwater Mine. Nominated by Kristy Holmes, Warren Zurva works as a Dust Suppression Operator for Buma at the Blackwater Mine.“Just nominating this legend; he’s done his time and will be soon retiring,”“He’s a true blue legend, the backbone of the industry and a friend to all.”
77/87Dominik Smith: Site Services worker at Qmag, Parkhurst. According to the person who nominated him (who would like to stay anonymous), Dominik Smith, who works in Site Services at Qmag, Parkhurst, is such a hardworking young man and such a team player.
78/87Jason Gaerlan: HSET Coordinator at the Eloise Copper MineNominated by Chantelle Louise Hall, Jason Gaerlan is a hardworking and dedicated father of two beautiful girls (his youngest pictured alongside him), currently working as a HSET Coordinator at the Eloise Copper Mine. “Before starting his career in the mines Jason was in the army,” Chantelle said. “He is dedicated to his role in the mines as well as his role at home which can be very tricky for some.”
79/87Adam Brady: Advanced Miner Operator at the Sojitz Gregory Crinum Mine. Nominated by his wife, Leonie Brady, Adam Brady has been mining underground for 18 years now, and is currently an Advanced Miner Operator at the Sojitz Gregory Crinum Mine.“He is a trainer and assessor, apart of the mines rescue team and a crew mentor for new to industry miners,” Leonie said. “My eldest boy Bradley (Adam is his stepdad) sent me the link to nominate him as he couldn’t do it himself,” she revealed. “We also have 2 teenagers together, so that’s three kids in total.” According to Leonie, Adam is a loyal and hardworking man in everything he does and he loves two things, his family and mining.“He’s the Mighty Miner because he takes on all these roles to enhance the Mine, teach people correctly, complete jobs safely and increase productivity.”“This way everyone gets to go home to their families at the end of shift.”
80/87Hemi Boynton: Underground Development Coal Miner at the Anglo American Grosvenor Mine, Moranbah
81/87Kurt Waddell: Floatation Operator at Mount Carlton Gold Mine Nominated by Jason Wilkins, Kurt Waddell works as a Floatation Operator at the Mount Carlton Gold Mine. “Kurt is the best float operator I know,” Jason said. “He hasn’t missed a day at work in the last 5 years, except for the birth of his son Benlee this year.”“He’s a proud father and the mightiest miner.”
82/87Rhani Sim: Blast Technician for Orica, Townsville.Townsville’s Rhani Sim has been in the mining industry for 8 years now, and is currently working as a Blast Technician for Orica in Townsville.
83/87Gregory Gray: Underground Operator and Mentor at Broadmeadows Underground Mine, Moranbah.Nominated by Karen Love, Gregory Gray works as an Underground Operator and Mentor at the Broadmeadows Underground Mine, Moranbah.
84/87Matt Gleeson: Longwall Electrical Contractor and Director of MG Electrical. Nominated by Hew Williams, Matt Gleeson is a family man and father of two young girls, working as a Longwall Electrical Contractor and Director of MG Electrical.“Matt balances his time between his family and his Fifo roster at the Kestrel mine site providing electrical support to the long wall machine,” Hew said. “Matt's love for electricity extends outside of his profession, he is an avid Tesla owner and love optimising his energy efficiency to the home via his solar panels.”
85/87Henry Kath: Senior Heavy Lift Specialist Craning Superintendent at the QWest big lift team. Nominated by Jacob Springate, Henry Kath is a Senior Heavy Lift Specialist Craning Superintendent at the QWest big lift team.“His motto is ‘no lift to big or small well lift ‘em all,” Jacob said. “Henry is a great asset to a team, if there is heavy lifts to be done.” “He’s even lifted a few heavies home from the pub.”
86/87Mark Keller: Underground Operator at Ensham Mine, Comet Nominated by his daughter, Chloe Keller, Westwood local Mark Keller has been an Underground Operator for almost 30 years and is currently working at the Ensham Mine in Comet. According to Chloe, Mark is very well respected by others in the industry.
87/87Kijana Meulman: Diesel Fitter at Lake Vermont Mine.Nominated by her mother, Lynda Meulman, Kijana Meulman is a Diesel Fitter at the Lake Vermont Mine.“She completed her apprenticeship at Broadmeadows as UG Diesel Fitter, then went off to Goonyella,” Lynda said. “She’s pretty badass I think!”