Being appointed President this year has been a privilege, and a reminder of the responsibility that comes with representing an iconic organisation. WA School of Mines Alumni has history, attitude, and a reputation built on hard work, heat, dust, determination and the kind of education you simply can’t replicate anywhere else.
WA School of Mines (WASM) matters to me because it shaped my life. I moved to Kalgoorlie at 18 and, like so many of us, was just a naïve kid. At WASM I found my tribe – the mates who became family, the support network that still stands behind me today, and an introduction to an industry that I genuinely believe is the best in the best state in Australia. It gave me opportunity, direction, and the foundation for a successful life – and I’ve never forgotten it.
To help steward that legacy, and support the generations coming through behind us, is something I take seriously, and something I’m proud to carry forward. It’s an honour to represent an iconic organisation with history behind it, momentum in front of it, and an alumni network that knows how to have a laugh and get things done.
It has been another positive and memorable year for the Alumni as we continue to be guided by our four pillars: Supporting our alumni, building financial independence, promoting WASM and WASMA and positively influencing the student experience at WASM. Together, these pillars help us define our activities and initiatives which support our graduates, nurture the future pipeline of WASM students and most importantly, ensure a long-term sustainable future for WASM and WASMA.
This year marked a major milestone with the securing of our first significant private sector endowment. A $5 million commitment to establish the first endowed Chair at WASM is an extraordinary vote of confidence in Australian mining and in WASM graduates. This support strengthens the School’s long-term independence and allows WASM to attract world class educators while continuing to invest in research and innovation. We hope it encourages further alumni and industry support in the years ahead.
I’d also like to take a moment to thank our generous sponsors for their support this year, especially our Platinum Sponsors: Northern Star Resources Limited, Sandvik Mining and Curtin University. As long-standing supporters of the Alumni, your teams are always so generous with their time and consistently show a real commitment to supporting our alumni activities. Thank you to all the companies who have supported us this year.
WASMA’s relationship with Curtin University has only gotten stronger over the past year. With the continued leadership and support of VC, Professor Harlene Hayne; Provost, Professor Matthew Tonts; Director of the Kalgoorlie Campus, Tanya Chambers and Head of School, Professor Mark Buntine FRACI CChem, GAICD, Curtin remains deeply committed to WASM’s home in Kalgoorlie and to enhancing the student experience. Combined with industry contributions, WASM is well positioned to attract world-class teaching talent and deliver a first-class education that our alumni can continue to be proud of.
This year also saw the return of the WA School of Mines name (finally!) For many of us, this name represents more than history. It reflects strength, character and a legacy built over more than a century. The WASM name is recognised globally and its return reinforces a strong sense of identity and connection for both students and alumni.
During the year our events really brought people together, from a sold-out Diggers & Dealers Sundowner to engaging MineChats, well attended Kalgoorlie Sundowners and an exciting battle of the schools with the CSM Alumni Australia Council/WASMA Better Together Quiz Night. Our Mentoring Program continued to partner emerging resources professionals with our more senior leaders. While the WASMA Sandvik Gala Ball provided a fantastic celebration of our community in November.
I would like to acknowledge those who make this possible. Our Council volunteers continue to give their time, experience and energy despite already full professional and personal lives.
Looking ahead, 2026 is about building on this momentum. We will continue to grow engagement, expand opportunities and strengthen the WASMA community. Our newly released Sponsorship Prospectus outlines how industry and alumni can support upcoming events and initiatives, while our flagship Resources Leadership Summit aims to once again redefine how we look at leadership in the resources sector. These initiatives are central to how we support future leaders and keep our community connected.
A key event for the new year is undoubtably the 2026 Resources Leadership Summit. This will be our second summit and will bring together leaders from across the resources sector and beyond for an exciting, jam packed day. The 2026 Resources Leadership Summit aims to develop leadership capability and encourage open and honest conversations. The Program is now available, and I for one am looking forward to hearing the Brickman speak! Take advantage of the early bird registration special and book your ticket now.
On behalf of the WASMA Council and our broader WASMA community, thank you for your continued support and involvement. I wish all our members, partners and supporters a happy and safe festive season. We look forward to carrying this momentum into 2026 and continuing to build something we can all be proud of.
President, WA School of Mines Alumni