Mental Health & Women in Mining

The ‘Grassroots Support of Mining Women’ initiative was created back in 2022 when Tania Steel, Commercial Manager at Glencore’s Newlands Open Cut Mine at the time, organised an inaugural event to initiate grassroots support for women in mining at Newlands and beyond.

More than 30 female employees and contractors from Newlands and nearby Collinsville and Hail Creek sites attended the event. With their positive feedback, plus the unanimous support of both Glencore management and women throughout Glencore, a second event was planned for later in 2022.

Since then, the Grassroots Support of Mining Women initiative has grown to include a series of regular events and networking opportunities, guest speakers, mentoring and training. Their vision is for a female workforce with a sense of community and support, that knows where to look if help is required. The ultimate aim of the initiative is to increase the retention rate of women in the mining workforce and increase the number of women in Supervisory and Management roles at Glencore and beyond.

The seventh event was held on 14th September, here at Tieri Golf Club, with a special focus on mental health and wellbeing to coincide with R U OK? day.

The event agenda was designed to inspire and empower everyone to meaningfully connect with the people around them and start a conversation with those in their world who may be struggling with life.

“It was an opportunity for women at Glencore to have an open and honest discussion about the challenges of juggling a career and personal life, as well as the importance of developing and maintaining personal connections and building strong mental health and wellbeing,” said Simone Kapitzke, Senior HR Coordinator at Oaky Creek Coal who sponsored of the event.

The 40+ participants enjoyed a jam-packed agenda featuring Tania Steel, Danielle Duell (CEO, People With Purpose) and special guest speaker, Sarah Mundell, a holistic health professional and qualified Yogi, Clinical Nutritionist and Wholefoods Chef.

In her first session, Sarah led participants through an outdoor ‘Mindful Movement’ program. Later, Sarah explored the pillars of health, including movement, mindfulness, nutrition and community, explaining how each of these areas can positively impact mental health and our ability to thrive.

There were meaningful discussions around the small, sustainable shifts that can have a profound impact on our wellbeing and plenty of questions were asked as attendees sought to develop their knowledge and understand practical ways to improve their wellbeing.

The session wrapped up with a look at the many RUOK? Resources available and how to put them into practice, including how to ask someone if they are OK.

“Glencore is committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of its employees,” said Simone. “We have a number of resources available, including Mates in Mining and our Employee Assistance Program, Converge, which is free, confidential and readily available to all Glencore employees and their families.”

If you think you, or someone you know, could benefit from support, the following resources might help:

• Converge International – EAP Services
• R U OK? Every Day Resources
• Beyond Blue – Get Support
• Queensland Government – Mental Wellbeing