IQA members tackle urban quarrying challenges

The Institute of Quarrying Australia (IQA) members have been out in force at site tours, networking meet-ups and golf days as part of the latest IQA events.

SA Young Member Network tackles urban quarrying challenges

How do you run a quarry practically in Adelaide’s backyard? That’s exactly what SA’s Young Member Network (YMN) discovered on 1 August during their visit to Heidelberg Materials’ White Rock Quarry, just 13 kilometres from the central business district.

Operating since 1947, this quarry faces unique challenges most operators never encounter: rock climbers scaling adjacent cliffs, residential neighbours, and environmental scrutiny at every turn. The tour revealed how Heidelberg navigates this complex landscape while maintaining productive operations.

The standout feature? A revolutionary water treatment system, the first of its kind in South Australia that cleans and returns water to the creek within 24 hours. After 12 months of design challenges, persistent rainfall, and unstable ground, Heidelberg created something truly innovative.

With more than 70 years of resources secured through a recently approved Mine Operations Plan, White Rock proves that urban quarrying isn’t just possible, it can be exemplary.

Victorian branch legends share their secrets

The Victorian branch brought together 54 members on 7 August at Medway Golf Club for the Winter Quarry Night and annual general meeting (AGM). The event was a successful evening of networking and leadership transition, with new leadership and sector wisdom taking centre stage.

Fresh faces joined the committee as Tylah Drochmann stepped up as chair, welcoming Blair Mather, Darren Toth, and Carly Monaghan to the team.

But the real magic happened during the industry “legends” panel. John Mawson (EB Mawson & Sons), Catherine Wood (Fulton Hogan), and John Malempre (Conmats Consulting) had the room captivated with tales from their early career “learning experiences” to career highlights.

Their advice for newcomers? “Say yes to everything”, “push boundaries”, and “find great mentors”.

NQLD sub-branch swings into action at Mackay golf day

The NQLD sub-branch (Mackay) delivered another successful annual Golf Day on 8 August at Mackay Golf Club, bringing together quarrying professionals for spirited competition and networking on the greens.

Competition was fierce with Heidelberg Materials claiming victory through Danielle Bree’s team, while BRW’s Alana Muscat team good-naturedly accepted the wooden spoon. Individual honours went to Peter Dunwoody (Komatsu) for longest drive and Ken Goldie (H-E Parts) for closest to the pin.

A special highlight was presenting the Dennis Marchant Memorial Trophy for best on ground to Danielle Bree, a fitting recognition of outstanding performance.

“The day went seamlessly with everyone enjoying a day out on the green,” event organiser Michelle Lergessner said.

The afternoon showcased strong sector support with generous sponsorship from Komatsu (drinks cart), Orica (catering), and multiple hole sponsors including Excel Drilling, H-E Parts International, SmartTech Australia, and others.

Rockhampton Golf Day delivers networking gold

What happens when you combine quarrying professionals, pristine fairways, and perfect weather? Pure networking magic.

The central Queensland (CQLD) sub-branch committee’s annual Rockhampton Golf Day on 15 August proved that business relationships flourish just as well on the green as they do in the quarry.

Partnering with major sponsor Komatsu, the event saw sector colleagues swap hard hats for golf caps in a day that perfectly balanced competition with connection.

The day’s success story wouldn’t be complete without the incredible support from sponsors. Hastings Deering kept spirits high as drinks sponsor, while Orica ensured everyone was well-fuelled as catering sponsor.

CQLD committee members Sam Hill and Dean Smith’s event coordination made it all look effortless, supported by Queensland’s Charlie Eaton and Darren Wardle.

Women in Quarrying takes off in South Australia

On 15 August, the SA branch celebrated a major milestone with the launch of its Women in Quarrying (WIQ) coffee conversations series in Adelaide. The inaugural event drew an impressive turnout of nearly 30 passionate women from across the construction materials sector, demonstrating strong appetite for networking and professional development opportunities.

Hosted by Carly Monaghan, IQA’s WIQ national coordinator, the morning brought together a diverse mix of professionals, including representatives from local quarries, industry sponsors, and the Department for Energy & Mining (SA).

A highlight of the morning was presenting new IQA member Claudia Groth (Hallett Group) with her TMIQ membership certificate.

The relaxed coffee format encouraged open conversations about industry challenges, career development, and the growing role of women in quarrying operations. With such positive feedback, plans are already underway for another event later this year.

SA branch AGM dinner

The SA AGM branch dinner was held on 22 August 2025, at the Adelaide Pavilion, with more than 100 guests in attendance. The evening was hosted by Michael Close, IQA President and SA deputy chairperson.

The program featured the formal presentation of seven membership certificates, along with special acknowledgements for two longstanding members: Han Alam (Finlay), recognised for over 10 years of membership, and Andrew Wilson (Keystone Consulting).

Congratulations were also extended to our newly appointed Fellows: Andrew Baker (SLR Consulting) and Stuart McCrone (Heidelberg Materials), who received their certificates and FIQ pins in recognition of their professional contributions to the industry.

National gold level sponsor John O’Reilly (Metso) delivered an impressive presentation showcasing Metso’s involvement in quarry operations in China, offering an insight into many of China’s “super-sized” quarries.

Committee elections were conducted during the evening, resulting in the appointment of 18 representatives from across the industry, including both members and suppliers, reflecting strong and diverse sector engagement. The evening’s guest speaker, Henry Davis (Adelaide City Council HD Law), delivered an engaging and thought-provoking presentation on the Monumental Masons Association SA’s vision for Adelaide’s first-ever skyscraper, providing historical context and future aspirations for the city’s evolving skyline.

Central west gets down to business on silica dust

On 28 August, Orange quarry operators rolled up their sleeves for a no-nonsense session on silica dust monitoring. The IQA central west region delivered exactly what attendees craved: straight talk from the Resources Regulator and EnviroScience Solutions’ John Bartholomew. The conversational format sparked dynamic discussions and real engagement. Attendees left saying it was “just what they needed”.

Queensland’s big day: Site tour, AGM, and smart talk

On 28 August, the Queensland branch and CQLD sub-branch packed their Thursday with a behind-the-scenes tour of Grydale Solutions’ dust control innovations in Brendale. The momentum continued at Eatons Hill Hotel for the branch AGM and dinner meeting. David Smith expertly guided AGM formalities, officially welcoming new committee members for 2025/26. Members then enjoyed presentations from Damian Volker on road pavement stabilisation, Janine Lees on occupational hazards, and John O’Reilly’s fascinating international quarry insights from China.

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