Quick Answer
The Women in Mining Awards 2026 finalists recognise the leaders, tradeswomen, innovators and programs shaping Australian mining. Categories include:
- Exceptional Woman in Mining
- Exceptional Tradeswoman / Operator
- Exceptional Young Woman in Mining
- Gender Diversity Champion (individual and company)
- Excellence in Mentorship
The Women in Mining Awards 2026, hosted by the NSW Minerals Council, recognise the individuals and organisations driving meaningful change across Australia's mining and resources sector.
From operational leadership and technical innovation to diversity advocacy and workforce transformation, this year's finalists represent the very best of the industry.
As mining continues to evolve, these awards highlight a powerful shift — one where innovation, inclusion and leadership go hand in hand.
What Are the Women in Mining Awards?
The Women in Mining Awards celebrate outstanding contributions across the NSW mining industry, recognising those who are:
- • Leading teams and operations
- • Driving innovation and efficiency
- • Championing diversity and inclusion
- • Supporting the next generation of mining professionals
More than recognition, these awards showcase the evolving face of mining — one that is increasingly diverse, forward-thinking and people-focused.
2026 Categories & Finalists
A snapshot of this year's outstanding finalists across the six award categories.
Exceptional Woman
Senior leaders making a significant industry-wide impact.
Penny Woodward
Malabar ResourcesFrom an unconventional start as a professional musician to leading surface infrastructure operations, Penny's journey reflects resilience, adaptability and leadership. She has played a key role in building mining operations from the ground up while advocating for greater female participation in the industry.
Morgana Gidley-Baird
Whitehaven CoalWith a career spanning environmental leadership across major resource projects, Morgana has led complex environmental strategies, governance frameworks and climate transition initiatives — while actively supporting diversity across the sector.
Exceptional Young Woman
Emerging leaders making their mark early in their careers.
Aleisha Saxby
Glencore, Ulan Surface OperationsRising rapidly through the ranks, Aleisha became the first female Production Superintendent at Ulan Surface Operations, while continuing to champion STEM pathways and inspire the next generation of engineers.
Stephanie Penales
Evolution MiningA leader in sustainability and social impact, Stephanie has driven key initiatives including reconciliation planning and stakeholder engagement, helping shape more inclusive and community-focused mining operations.
Technological Innovation
Driving digital and operational transformation across the sector.
Maria Strang
Boggabri Coal OperationsMaria led the transformation of workforce training through digital systems, reducing induction time and significantly improving efficiency, accessibility and safety outcomes.
Harriet Davies
Whitehaven CoalThrough the development of an advanced environmental data hub, Harriet has modernised compliance and environmental management — setting a new standard for digital governance in mining.
Tradeswoman / Operator / Technician
Excellence in hands-on, technical and trade roles.
Taleigha Everingham-Potts
Evolution MiningAn experienced auto electrician supporting underground operations, Taleigha continues to mentor future tradeswomen and advocate for greater representation in technical roles.
Sarah North
Yancoal AustraliaFrom being the first female apprentice at Moolarben to becoming a skilled maintenance specialist, Sarah's journey highlights resilience and leadership in traditionally male-dominated environments.
Inclusion & Diversity Champion
Individuals driving cultural change across the industry.
Megan Martin
Whitehaven CoalMegan has played a key role in building strong regional networks that empower women through mentoring, development and industry connection.
Matthew Ireland
Endura MiningA visible advocate for inclusive workplaces, Matthew has driven measurable improvements in diversity outcomes through equitable hiring practices and leadership initiatives.
Excellence in Diversity Programs & Performance
Organisational initiatives delivering real, measurable change.
Newmont Early Careers Program
NewmontA standout initiative building diverse talent pipelines, achieving strong female participation and long-term workforce development outcomes.
FlexCrew Program
Evolution Mining – Northparkes OperationsRedefining flexibility in mining, FlexCrew has enabled greater workforce participation by creating accessible pathways into operational roles.
Key Trends from the 2026 Finalists
Digital transformation is accelerating
From training systems to environmental data hubs, technology is playing a critical role in improving safety, efficiency and compliance across NSW operations.
Flexible work is expanding participation
Programs like FlexCrew show how rethinking traditional rosters can unlock new talent pools and improve workforce sustainability.
Leadership is becoming more inclusive
Across every category, leaders are prioritising mentorship, representation and inclusive workplace cultures.
Women are leading at every level
From apprenticeships to executive roles, women are increasingly shaping the direction of Australia's mining industry.
Why Diversity in Mining Matters
Diversity in mining improves safety, innovation and workforce sustainability by bringing broader perspectives, increasing participation and strengthening decision-making across operations.
A more diverse workforce leads to:
- • Better problem-solving on-site
- • Stronger team performance
- • Improved safety outcomes
- • Greater long-term industry sustainability
As the industry faces ongoing skills shortages and increasing operational complexity, diversity is no longer optional — it's essential.
Celebrating the Future of Mining
At SprintSuite, we're proud to support mining contractors and teams navigating this change — helping improve workforce visibility, streamline operations and support compliance across site and field. Because better systems don't just improve operations — they help build better workplaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Women in Mining Awards?
The Women in Mining Awards, hosted by the NSW Minerals Council, recognise individuals and organisations driving leadership, innovation and diversity across the NSW mining and resources sector.
What categories are included in the Women in Mining Awards 2026?
The 2026 categories are Exceptional Woman, Exceptional Young Woman, Technological Innovation, Tradeswoman/Operator/Technician, Inclusion & Diversity Champion, and Excellence in Diversity Programs & Performance.
Who are the finalists for the Women in Mining Awards 2026?
The 2026 finalists include senior leaders, emerging professionals, tradeswomen, technologists and organisations from companies such as Whitehaven Coal, Glencore, Evolution Mining, Yancoal, Newmont, Malabar Resources, Boggabri Coal Operations and Endura.
Why is diversity important in mining?
Diversity in mining improves safety, innovation and workforce sustainability by bringing broader perspectives, increasing participation and strengthening decision-making across operations.
