Members have shown strong attendance at recent educational and networking events hosted by the Institute of Quarrying Australia (IQA).
WA Golf Day 2025: Rain can’t dampen sector spirit
Despite one of the wettest golf days on record, the Western Australian quarrying community showed up in force to the 2026 IQA WA annual golf day.
Major sponsor CJD Equipment backed the day’s pre-game and post-game functions, while generous hole and team sponsors including WA Limestone, B&F Consolidated Group, Brooks Equipment Sales, and more than industry partners kept the momentum going.
MC Gareth McKean kept spirits high as scores rolled in, with WesTrac Cat ultimately claiming the winner’s trophy after a challenging day on the course.
From drinks carts to massage stations, crossover sponsors to gold team backers, the day showcased what makes WA’s quarrying sector special: connection, community, and the ability to laugh through the rain.
Tropical vibes for a year-end wrap
The far north Queensland (FNQ) sub-branch committee brought the year to a close with a fun-filled afternoon of barefoot bowls, BBQ, and networking at West Cairns Bowls Club on Friday, 17 October.
With 38 players registered, the family-friendly event saw teams come together for friendly competition on the bowling green, followed by refreshments and plenty of laughs. The relaxed atmosphere provided the perfect opportunity for members to connect with colleagues, customers, and families outside of the usual work environment.
The standout moment? The Haz-Elec Team taking home the coveted Best Dressed Competition prize with their eye-catching tropical team shirts, proving that style counts just as much as skill.
FNQ sub-branch chairperson Darren Caddy and Committee member Keoni Kidner hosted and facilitated the afternoon’s activities.
The FNQ sub-branch continues to demonstrate the value of regional engagement, bringing members together to celebrate the year’s achievements and strengthen professional relationships in a fun, inclusive setting.
Mackay forum sets new standard for sector-regulator collaboration
Queensland’s quarrying sector came together in Mackay on 16 October for a new event that showcased what genuine sector-regulator partnership looks like.
The inaugural Quarry Forum, hosted by Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ) in partnership with the Institute of Quarrying Australia, drew strong attendance bringing together 76 managers, safety professionals, and future quarry leaders eager to tackle the sector’s most pressing challenges.
IQA’s north Queensland committee member Michelle Lergessner, instrumental in bringing the event to life, said, “the forum provided an excellent platform for collaboration, and it’s clear that RSHQ’s and the IQA’s commitment to engagement is making a real impact.”
The sentiment was echoed throughout the day. Clayton Hill, past IQA President and Technical Discipline Manager at SLR Consulting, said, “the collaboration between the regulator and sector is unmatched anywhere else in the country with respect to the quarry sector, which we truly value.”
With open dialogue, practical insights, and a room full of engaged professionals, the forum proved that when sector and regulators work together, everyone wins.
Victorian students celebrate success
The IQA Victorian branch and Victorian sub-branch celebrated the achievements of 12 quarrying graduates at their annual Student Presentation Night on 24 October at Novotel Melbourne Preston.
Fifty-four sector professionals gathered to recognise students who completed Certificate III, Certificate IV, and Diploma qualifications, with Kinder Australia generously supplying graduation compendiums.
The evening’s highlight was keynote speaker Daniel Bull, a three-time Guinness World Record-breaking adventurer, who captivated attendees with his insights on overcoming limitations, embracing discomfort, and the power of asking “what if?” His message that “leadership starts with self-leadership and how you respond to fear” particularly resonated with the graduates embarking on their quarrying careers.
Bull encouraged celebrating achievements along the way using the “summit pose”, a fitting reminder for an industry that values both milestone achievements and continuous improvement.
Congratulations to all graduates on their outstanding achievement and commitment to professional development in the quarrying sector.
For more information, visit quarry.com.au
