The Gold Industry Group (GIG) closed the year with the announcement of three additional new Directors at yesterday’s Annual General Meeting.
Evolution Mining Group Manager External and Indigenous Relations Anika McManus (on left) with Evolution Mining’s Donna Kelly, Liesel Kemp and Saracen’s Marianne Dravnieks at the GIG’s 2018 #heartofgold Discovery Trail event in Perth.
Evolution Mining Group Manager External and Indigenous Relations Anika McManus, Newmont Australia Group Executive Sustainability and External Relations Kenneth Ramsey, and Newcrest Mining Manager External Affairs and Social Performance Ben Bryant were welcomed to the diverse leadership team.
The increase to 10 Board members reflects the recent growth of the GIG’s member base, with the major Australian gold producers taking an active role.
Newcrest Mining Manager External Affairs and Social Performance Ben Bryant (on right) meeting with Martu Elder Merridoo Walbidi and advisor Dan Toby.
GIG Chairman and Perth Mint Chief Executive Officer Richard Hayes was delighted with the new assembly, saying it demonstrates the impact of the Group’s efforts to bring Australia’s gold industry to life by leading the way for members to tell their story.
“As our presence within the industry and the broader community strengthens, the GIG is gaining greater recognition, validation and value,” Mr Hayes said.
Newmont Australia Kenneth Ramsey (on left) with Regional Senior VP Alex Bates and WA Mining Club’s scholarship winner Victoria Arrowsmith.
“Akin to other sectors, the gold industry is presented with unique opportunities while also facing its own challenges.
“Issues of reputation and community perception are ever more pressing. Managing these in an age where access to information is often immediate requires levels of transparency and commitment to the greater good not experienced before, making it vital that we connect our industry with the broader community.
“It is through our many programs that we are educating the public about the importance of the gold sector and its contribution and value to broader society. Our initiatives to engage with the wider community have provided us with invaluable feedback and support which is championing positive attitudinal change and forming new and favourable perceptions,” Mr Hayes continued.
Traditionally, the gold industry has been humble in its approach to telling its story while working closely with communities and providing significant social and economic benefits.
“The GIG has given the gold industry a united voice and a platform through which to advocate our achievements and accomplishments. The time has come for us all to become champions of our industry and tell our story with confidence. It is a great story about a remarkable sector, and every Australian needs to be aware of it.
“Through the GIG’s efforts and those of our members, we can ensure a bright future for our industry and I’m delighted to welcome Anika, Ken and Ben to our team as we take the Group to the next level,” Mr Hayes concluded.
All other members of the Board retained their positions including Gold Fields Vice President of Legal and Compliance Kelly Carter, Northern Star Resources Chief Executive Officer Stuart Tonkin, ABC Refinery Managing Director Phillip Cochineas, AngloGold Ashanti Australia Vice President of Corporate Affairs, Community and Human Resources Andrea Maxey, Gold Road Resources General Manager for Capability and Culture Stuart Jenner and DDL Resources Director David Woodford.
During the Annual General Meeting the GIG also announced some major projects for 2019, with a focus on nation-wide reach and representation.