On Tuesday last week I had a big day with the QRC. First, I was treated to a breakfast at the Sofitel celebrating the achievements of women in working in the resource sector. A number of awards were presented to some really amazing people. The winner of the top prize, the Queensland Resource Council Resources Award for Women, was Heather Parry, a project manager employed by Leighton Contractors. She's made a great contribution to the status of women in the resources sector and her mining team comprises 20% women. So it was really inspiring for me to hear her speak about her experiences. The keynote speaker, Diane Creel, spoke beautifully too. She was the CEO of a company called Earth Tech and had been flown in specially from the US.

Later that day, there was a lunch for the QRC student ambassadors at the Villager Hotel. It was a simpler event, but also really enjoyable. There were a few speakers, including Melanie Gordon, a young woman who's already achieved amazing things in the resource sector and won heaps of awards. I've heard her speak a few times now and she never disappoints.

So for any girls interested in a career in the resource sector, there are three names worth looking up - Heather Parry, Diane Creel and Melanie Gordon - if you're looking for some inspiration!