A stellar array of high-performing women in Victorian mining have been recognised in the 2026 Victorian Women in Resources Awards for their leadership, career achievements and commitment to inclusion within the state's resources sector.
The annual awards celebrate and empower women in Victorian mining and provide a platform to encourage more women into the mining industry.
This year's awards across six categories recognise outstanding young women, trades, technological innovation and company inclusion programs:
- Exceptional Woman in Resources - Jody Altmann, Manager Mining, GHD
- Exceptional Young Woman in Resources - Stevie Child, Undergraduate Mining Engineer, Alkane Resources
- Outstanding Trade Operator or Technician - Sarah Berkin, Core Shed Manager, Southern Cross Gold
- Gender Diversity Champion – Narelle Burns - Production Manager Metals, Alcoa Portland Aluminium
- Technological Innovation Award - Man Ching, Analyst AI/Machine Learning, Newmont
- Excellence in Company Programs and Performance - ISH 24 Safety & Rescue
The award recipients show the wide and rewarding range of roles in mining including mining engineering, core shed management, AI and emergency response.
Recipients are recognised for their work in mining and the community, encouraging and supporting other women to pursue rewarding careers in mining and resources to help mining become an industry of choice for women.
Victorian award winners will advance as finalists at the 2026 Women in Resources National Awards hosted by the MCA in September in Melbourne.
