Institute of Quarrying Australia (IQA) president Michael Close shares insights into the organisation’s current activities to support its members across Australia.
Our inaugural IQA Mentoring Program has exceeded all expectations since its May launch. Within days of opening applications, we achieved full capacity with our first cohort of 50 participants across mentor and mentee roles.
This overwhelming response validates the strong appetite within our sector for structured knowledge-sharing opportunities and demonstrates the commitment of our experienced members to nurturing the next generation of quarrying professionals.
The program’s success reflects our community’s dedication to professional development and knowledge transfer. Our customised matching process has created meaningful professional relationships, with participants now engaged in their structured six-month journey of monthly meetings, guided check-ins, and access to our dedicated Mentoring Hub.
Membership Renewals
While the 30 June renewal deadline has passed, members can still renew their 2025–26 membership to maintain access to our expanding suite of professional development opportunities and member benefits.
Don’t let your professional journey pause – renew your membership to continue accessing sector resources, networking opportunities, and the valuable programs that support your career advancement in the sector.
Digital Innovation
This month marks another significant milestone with the launch of our brand new IQA website. Designed with member engagement as the priority, the mobile-friendly, responsive platform streamlines event registrations, educational session access, and networking participation.
The modernised interface offers simplified member services access and enhanced digital engagement, reflecting our commitment to a more accessible and responsive organisation that adapts to today’s busy quarrying workforce.
Following this website launch, we’ll be introducing our new IQA app, putting essential resources and connections directly at your fingertips for instant access to sector updates, event registration, and member networking.
Webinar Series Success
Our partnership with Holding Redlich has delivered exceptional value through our webinar series on critical sector topics. Session one, focusing on ‘Managing Psychological Safety Risks’, attracted strong attendance with high levels of participant interaction and engagement.
The series continued with ‘Managing Contractor Safety Obligations’, providing practical insights into chain of responsibility, contract management best practices, and risk mitigation strategies. These sessions demonstrate our commitment to delivering timely, relevant professional development that addresses real-world challenges facing our members.
As an added benefit, IQA members can access complimentary legal consultations with Holding Redlich experts, extending the value of this educational partnership.
Safety & Health Conference Success Continues
Our regional safety & health conferences have delivered outstanding results, with successful events in Queensland – first in Townsville, then Brisbane – drawing strong attendance and valuable sector discussions.
The momentum continues with our next NSW Safety & Health Conference scheduled for 30 July.
Michael Close, FIQ
President
Institute of Quarrying Australia
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