Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women, Bronnie Taylor MLC, joined numerous participants and special guests in the NSW Minerals Council Awards live stream.

"These awards are a wonderful opportunity to highlight the outstanding women in the mining industry who are a shining light for women and girls interested in joining this important industry," Mrs Taylor said.

"I congratulate the NSW Minerals Council for recognising the great contribution women make in the sector."

NSW Minerals Council CEO Stephen Galilee praised the outstanding finalists along with mining employees across NSW who have risen to the challenge of operating during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The first half of 2020 has been tough. We've endured terrible bushfires off the back of a severe drought, followed by a global health crisis. During the COVID-19 pandemic our miners have kept operating under strict health and safety protocols that have helped to protect jobs, support local communities and maintain our contribution to the NSW economy," Mr Galilee said today.

"Today we recognise the winners of the NSW Women in Mining Awards, showcasing some of the highly skilled women who have helped keep our industry operating during these very tough times,"

"Today's winners highlight the effort being made to promote greater opportunity and participation for women in mining, and increase the career paths available to women in our sector," Mr Galilee said.

NSW Women in Mining Awards Winners

Exceptional Woman in Mining

WINNER: Renata Roberts, Chief Corporate Services Officer, The Bloomfield Group

Exceptional Young Woman in Mining

WINNER: Leah Miller, CHPP Superintendent Maintenance Delivery, Yancoal Australia

Gender Diversity Champion

WINNER: Kate Swain, Partner, McCullough Robertson

Excellence in Diversity Programs and Performance

WINNER: WIMnet NSW Mentoring Program

Outstanding Tradeswoman / Operator / Technician

WINNER: Peita Heffernan, Trainer Assessor and Operator, Glencore Coal Assets Australia