Chief of Division, Onshore Energy and Minerals

Describe some daily tasks that you complete in your position

In my role as Chief of Division, Onshore Energy and Minerals, I have the task of planning the strategic direction of research projects to ensure that Geoscience Australia's work is relevant to the Australian minerals and energy industry. What this means is that I review technical programs to ensure they are on track; and meeting the expectations of our Minister and our state government colleagues. I also liaise with the State and Territory Geological Surveys to facilitate positive collaborations to maximise working partnerships.

What is it that you find most enjoyable/challenging/rewarding about your position?

The most enjoyable and rewarding component of my position is designing and coordinating programs that I know will make a difference on a national scale. As Chief of Division, I watch enthusiastic staff expand their horizons and develop into outstanding scientists which I also find personally rewarding. However, coming with my position is the responsibility and challenge of juggling many different inputs from a variety of partners and contributors, and channelling them towards a consistent strategic direction relevant to the Australian minerals and energy industry. It's a day-to-day challenge that I face but I know that it is contributing to Australia's success.

Describe your career pathway(s) that led you to where you are today?

In my very first year out of school, I had a depressing clerical job in the public service that didn't suit me and I vowed that I would find a profession that would let me work outdoors. So I enrolled at Sydney University to study marine science. In my first year, I took geology as a "soft" subject to give me some breathing space from the harder subjects like maths and chemistry. After three weeks I fell in love with geology and recognised that this was the career path for me.

After university I worked for 21 years in the mining and exploration industry, working in underground nickel and copper mines and doing surface exploration and field work searching mostly for copper and gold. These jobs evolved into managing exploration programs which I did for seven years by which time I was ready for a change. I saw a fantastic opportunity at Geoscience Australia that enabled me to work on a national canvas. I applied and was fortunate to be offered the position that I now enjoy.

What formal/educational training have you completed?

I completed a BSc Honours majoring in geology and PhD on the Olympic Dam Copper Uranium Deposit.

What are the benefits of working at Geoscience Australia?

One of the main benefits of relocating to work at Geoscience Australia is the Canberra lifestyle. That for me includes living close to family, being a great place to raise kids, having wonderful national parks close by and great bike tracks. On a personal level, working at Geoscience Australia gives me a sense of accomplishment such that I get an opportunity to make an impact on an entire industry rather than simply the fortunes of one company.