GIRLS IN HARD HATS HIT QREX

Rockhampton girls are invited to take a peek into the lives of women in hard hats.

The Girls in Hard Hats panel event at the Queensland Resources Expo on May 25 is an exciting and interactive forum for girls.

The panel session run by the Beattie Government's Office for Women will showcase three successful women working in traditionally male-dominated fields.

“There are so many talented women working in mining and construction having an absolute ball,” said Minister for Women Margaret Keech.

“They have a fantastic lifestyle, earn great money and work on projects that truly make a difference.

“The Girls in Hard Hats program is about opening other girls’ eyes to the many possibilities and fantastic career opportunities in these fields.”

Melanie Gordon, a Senior Mechanical Engineer from Goonyella Riverside Mine, loves her job and will be one of the three panel members sharing her story on the day.

Melanie was part of a team that developed a winning mining innovation, making significant safety improvements in the industry.

“I enjoy what I do. I can see my efforts are making my workplace better,” Melanie said.

“I love the people that I work with. My work is never boring and I have huge variety in what I do.”

The other two panel members are Kaitlyn Honeymoon and Melissa Styles.

Kaitlyn is an ambitious apprentice bricklayer in Rockhampton who has aspirations to run her own bricklaying business in the future.

As the first female Project Manager appointed to Roche Mining’s QMag Kunwarara open-cut magnesia mine, Melissa Styles is well-equipped to inspire others.

Melissa openly admits she stumbled into mining, but has never looked back.

Melissa was recently recognised by the Queensland Resources Council with a 'Professional Recognition' award in the 2007 Resources Award for Women.

Audience members will be able to interact with the panel and ask questions during the Girls in Hard Hats session.

“We really need to encourage more women into non-traditional industries and study,” Mrs Keech said.

“The reality is Queensland needs more women in hard hats and this program is just one example of how the Beattie Government is working to break down gender stereotypes and inspire women to consider different career paths.”

For more information go to www.women.qld.gov.au/hardhats or call 1800 177 577.