Last week, the WA School of Mines Alumni elected Darren Stralow as our President for the next two years. As his term begins, we asked Darren a few questions to learn more about him and his priorities for the next two years.
What inspired you to get involved with the WA School of Mines Alumni?
I’m a very proud WA School of Mines (WASM) graduate and acknowledge the pivotal role that attending WASM – and living in Kalgoorlie – had on my life. I’ve been actively involved in the WASM community – hiring graduates, volunteering, working with Curtin University – for my whole career, and have been on the WASMA Council for several years. I’ve been around long enough now to be in the privileged position where I’ve seen people go from students to graduates to professionals to successful senior executives – and the connection that WASMA creates along that journey is something I am proud to be a part of.
What are your main goals or priorities as the new WASMA President?
There are big shoes to fill as Kyle De Souza has done a great job and WASMA is in a great position. My goal is to build on that momentum and ensure that everything that is associated with the WASMA name is seen as a premium event/product. One of my goals is to focus on the history of WASM and highlight the community of influential leaders and amazing people that our members become a part of when they join the WASMA community. We also have the 125-year anniversary of WASM (and therefore Curtin) in 2027 – this is a big milestone that will require a big party!
How do you see the resources sector evolving over the next decade?
Mining’s foundational role and recognition within the global economy is expanding, which presents a decade of transformative growth and opportunity that could be unprecedented. With the resources industry really starting to see some momentum, there is a generational opportunity for WASMA to start focussing on leaving a real legacy through endowments, scholarships and infrastructure to really help the next few generations of students coming through the school.
What is your favourite memory from your time at WASM?
There’s so many that come from just living out in Kalgoorlie with a group of mates that became like family: great events, nights at the WASM Social Club Inc. Social Club, live bands at Judds, rugby – such good life experience. My two years in the WASM Wombats was a highlight – two world championships including being a member of the first ever non-US team to win the title (in Montana, 2000). Good times.
What do you enjoy doing outside of your professional life?
I try to spend as much time as possible with my wife, kids (Hannah 13, Joe 11) and two crazy German Shorthaired Pointer’s, while still playing for two basketball teams (and coaching one) and dreaming of the Fremantle Dockers winning their first premiership.
We look forward to Darren’s leadership in the years ahead and to the positive impact he will make within our community.