THE AIMEX exhibition not only sits among the largest mining events in Australia, it is the biggest.
Industry professionals, officials and stakeholders gather to scope out new ideas and equipment to help further their business; so to be asked to act as an expert speaker at such an occasion is a true badge of honour.
Yet, there was no hesitation by those running the conference aspect of it to invite Muswellbrook's Ngaire Baker to share the experience, advice and expertise she has picked up over her three decades in mining.
Currently fulfilling the role of external relations manager for MACH Energy Mt Pleasant operation, she has been involved in the trade across several different states and nations since 1987.
With a résumé to behold, Ms Baker has worked in Russia, China and South America as well as gaining exceptional knowledge in Australia having been based in Kalgoorlie, north Queensland and for the past 13 years - the Hunter Valley.
She recently chatted to The Muswellbrook Chronicle about the AIMEX conference and how much she appreciated the invitation.
"It's quite an honour to be asked, there are a lot of experts out there and a lot of people that do what I do," she said.
"I was approached because I've lived and worked in remote mining communities and small towns for most of my career and I've been very fortunate in that way, but I've also had big company and big mining experiences.
"My role is to speak on the image of the mining industry and how the mining sector and the community can work more collaboratively together in the future, particularly in regional and rural areas."
Although some presentations can cost upwards of $4000 to attend, Ms Baker revealed the AIMEX conference is free of charge and designed to be innovative and keep the industry flowing.
This is far from the first accolade she has received however, with the former journalist having been named as one of the ten most influential women in mining in 2013 and recently been nominated as a finalist in the 2019 NSW Minerals Exceptional Women in Mining Awards.
"That award in 2013 was quite a surprise and I didn't know anything about it, and I guess they're the best type," she stated.
"It is an honour, I don't go to work everyday and I haven't for the past 30 years doing what I do for accolades and pats on the back, I do it because I love it."
She will take place on the first panel on day one of the event, which goes from August 27 to 29 at Sydney Olympic Park.
