Rio Tinto Bell Bay Aluminium’s exceptional women leaders have been recognised at the 2024 Women in Resources and Manufacturing Tasmania Awards in Launceston today.
Safe Production System’s Stream Lead Alicia Sargent was recognised as the Inclusion and Diversity Champion in Tasmanian Resources Award recipient.
Four other Bell Bay Aluminium employees were also recognised at the luncheon, hosted by the Tasmanian Minerals, Manufacturing and Energy Council in conjunction with the AusIMM Women in Mining Network Tasmania:
- Theresa Mackenzie, highly commended, Outstanding Tradeswoman, Operator or Technician in Tasmanian Resources;
- Kristy Wilkinson, highly commended, Exceptional Women in Tasmanian Resources;
- Hannah Barwick, highly commended, Exceptional Young Woman in Australian Resources; and
- Raelene Brooking, finalist, Exceptional Woman in Tasmanian Resources.
Award recipient Alicia said the honour was completely unexpected.
“At Bell Bay Aluminium, we have fostered a culture where diversity in thinking and decision making is widely acknowledged and accepted. Ensuring our workplaces and our communities are inclusive and diverse is extremely important to me.
“Women bring different skills and lived experiences to the resources and manufacturing industry, and I am fortunate that Bell Bay Aluminium is willing to foster and champion these talents to create a future where everyone can thrive.”
Rio Tinto Bell Bay Aluminium General Manager Richard Curtis said the awards reflected commitment and leadership for inclusion and diversity in the sector.
“I am incredibly proud of all our finalists. Each is a standout role model on our site,” Richard said. “Their stories, achievements and leadership qualities show what is possible in mining, manufacturing and resources in Tasmania, and also the great benefits that diversity brings to our sector.
“Our belief is that the long-term sustainability of our sector relies on attracting and retaining people from all backgrounds.
“I congratulate all winners and finalists at today’s awards and wish Alicia the best of luck as a Tasmanian finalist at the national awards in Canberra later this year.”