The Gold Industry Group recently held its annual Gold Class Awards to acknowledge the amazing work of industry champions in inspiring gold’s future leaders of tomorrow.
Novo Resources Geologist Liz Abel with Minister Johnston
At the Event on May 3 at QT Perth, Novo Resources Geologist Liz Abel was awarded the highly regarded Gold Class Facilitator of the Year for 2022 after delivering an incredible 13 primary and secondary Gold Class Sessions last year across 4 different schools.
Novo Resources Executive Co-Chairman Mike Spreadborough with Minister Johnston
Novo Resources also won Company of the Year for the first time, after delivering more sessions than any other company last year. This award was accepted on behalf of the company by Executive Co-Chairman Mike Spreadborough.
The awards were a fantastic opportunity to acknowledge the vital contribution of facilitators to the success of the National Gold Education Program. Which, with exemplary feedback from teachers, students, and industry champions, continues to move from strength to strength.
The Perth Mint Process Engineer Ellisha Reynolds with Minister Johnston
ln 2022, the Group was face-to-face with more than 4,000 students in classrooms across Australia.
Gold Industry Group CEO Kristy Reilly said she was incredibly proud of the program, which was having a huge impact in changing industry perceptions and developing the leaders of tomorrow.
AngloGold Ashanti Australia Senior Metallurgical Specialist Teresa McGrath with Minister Johnston
“By introducing young people to the STEM concepts that underpin gold mining, we can help to foster a new generation of talent, one that is equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to drive innovation and growth in the sector,” Ms Reilly said.
“For many young people, the classroom is where they first start to think about what they want to do with their lives. Our Program provides an invaluable opportunity for workers to share their passion for the industry and act as role models for these students.”
“By sparking an interest in the gold industry, we have the potential to alter the life direction of these children, helping them to discover a fulfilling and rewarding career, one that they may not have considered before.”
Minister for Mines and Petroleum the Honourable Bill Johnston MLA presented the awards on the night to the passionate workers who had delivered the most Gold Class Sessions each term and received exemplary positive feedback.
Congratulations to all our incredible Gold Class Award winners:
Gold Class Facilitator of the Year for 2022 - Novo Resources Geologist Liz Abel
Gold Class Facilitator Award for Term 4 in 2022 - Evolution Mining Community Relations Officer Tara Rout
Gold Class Facilitator for Term 3 in 2022 - The Perth Mint Process Engineer Ellisha Reynolds and AngloGold Ashanti Australia Senior Metallurgical Specialist Teresa McGrath
Gold Class Facilitator for Term 2 in 2022 - Novo Resources Geologist Liz Abel and Project Metallurgist Jason Aleknavicius
Liz Abel said she had learnt a lot from the kids during her time as a facilitator, and that she was always pleasantly surprised at how engaged the students were.
From questions about the taste of gold all the way to enquiries about the highest paying jobs - there was never a shortage of enthusiasm in the classroom to learn more.
“Some of the most memorable events from presenting are probably the ones that also taught me the most,” Ms Abel said.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed presenting these classes as I firmly believe in supporting STEM and especially science in our schools.”
“I hope the classes I have presented have encouraged critical thinking and highlighted the wide range of opportunities that exist within the gold industry.”
Find out more about the Gold Industry Group’s National Gold Education Program proudly supported by its members: education.goldindustrygroup.com.au