The 2025 Women in Quarrying (WIQ) event hosted by the Institute of Quarrying Australia (IQA) in Victoria was a landmark occasion drawing a record 165 attendees and reinforcing the industry’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and innovation.
Boral was proud to be one of the most well-represented organisations on the day, with 26 employees from our Victorian quarries in attendance. Our strong presence reflects our long-standing relationship with the IQA, a partnership that spans decades and is now solidified with our own Duncan Harris, General Manager of Boral Quarries Victoria now serving as IQA President.
The IQA is the peak industry body for quarrying and extractive professionals in Australia. It plays a vital role in promoting industry standards, professional development, and knowledge sharing across the sector. Its Women in Quarrying (WIQ) network is a key initiative aimed at supporting and empowering women in the industry through events, mentoring, and leadership opportunities.
This year’s annual WIQ event was a powerful showcase of what the future of quarrying can look like when diversity is embraced. The day began with a site tour demonstrating sustainable resource recovery in action, followed by a dynamic lunch program at the Novotel Melbourne Airport.
Highlights included:
- A compelling keynote by Laura Chibnall, who spoke on inclusive leadership and the importance of creating space for diverse voices.
- A thought-provoking panel discussion featuring Laura Bennie, Darren Toth, and Rachel Dillon, who shared real-world insights on overcoming barriers in the workplace.
- An update from IQA CEO Jane Schmitt, outlining the Institute’s progress on diversity initiatives and its vision for a more inclusive industry.
- A special video presentation from ASTEC, showcasing innovation in quarrying technology.
The energy in the room was electric, with attendees walking away inspired, informed, and more connected than ever. The overwhelming response to this year’s event sends a clear message: the quarrying industry is ready to evolve, and diversity is not just welcomed but essential.
A special thank you to Jake van Bergeijk, Trainer–Assessor for Boral’s Southern Region, for capturing the spirit of the day through a fantastic collection of photos.
As the industry continues to grow and change, Boral remains committed to supporting initiatives like WIQ that champion inclusion, leadership, and the future of quarrying.
