A group of ore-some students from across Queensland have participated in a different kind of adventure – a one-week camp at Dysart exploring the resources sector and building their STEM skills.

The Central Queensland Oresome Minds camp attracted students from as far south as the Gold Coast to Townsville in the north, giving some their first experience of mining life in regional Queensland.

The camp was delivered by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA), the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) in partnership with BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) and Civeo who provided the camp accommodation and facilities for the week.

The residential camp included projects designed to solve science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) challenges based on resource industry issues including productivity, sustainability and safety.

The students were mentored by experienced BMA professionals and tradespeople who guided them through the STEM challenges and gave plenty of industry insights throughout the week.

Ryan Ferricks, Acting General Manager of BMA’s Saraji Mine said the residential camp was an immersive experience for students, giving them a real understanding of what it is like to work in the resources sector.

“We’re proud to support the QMEA camp, which highlights the diverse STEM roles in our sector and gives students hands-on experience,” said Ryan.

“It’s been a rewarding week for the BHP Mitsubishi Alliance team working with the students and helping them to better understand the exciting career pathways available in our industry.”

Katrina-Lee Jones, QRC Policy Director – Skills, Education and Diversity, said the Central Queensland Oresome Minds camp was an incredible opportunity for senior students choosing STEM to underpin future careers.

“The students worked in teams, with their mentors, completing engineering-focused projects designed by the BMA team that reflect real-world challenges encountered in mining planning,” said Ms Jones.

“These projects and the hands-on learning they received on the BMA operations site has given the students a deeper understanding of resource operations and a stronger appreciation of the teamwork, leadership and communication skills required in these roles,” she said.

“The students had the opportunity to talk with engineers, maintenance crews, remote dozer operators and geologists giving them a greater idea of the types of roles available to them as a future career in resources.”

Students attended the Central Queensland Oresome Minds camp in Dysart from schools on the Gold Coast, and in Brisbane, Ipswich, Emerald, Moranbah and Townsville.