To be known as the Mine Managers' Association of Australia (MMAA), the body aims to represent professionals in mine management across Australia's mining industry. The agenda of the organisation is yet to be set but some initial issues are already apparent, said the president, John McKendry.
McKendry said the Australian mining industry was parochial by state and sector, was seen to be disjointed and dysfunctional, and was in the process of facing some major challenges for people in management. While consolidation was occurring at organisation level there was no clear way to coordinate some of the practical aspects related to education, competencies and professional development, legislation, and national standardisation.
"Over the last few years there have been moves by the NSW Coal Mine Managers' Association to change their articles of association, and broaden their focus and membership by going into a professional body that integrates coal - both surface and underground - with metal mines and quarrying industries across all aspects of mine management in Australia and New Zealand," he said.
McKendry said the mechanisms for getting other states involved is yet to be worked out but initially several Queensland coal mine managers are supportive and will establish a sub-district in Queensland. There are roughly 20 managers in Queensland who are members of the NSW Coal Mine Manager's Association and a sub-committee has been elected to lead the Queensland branch, headed by Mitch Jakeman as vice president for Queensland. Jakeman is general manager of the Anglo Coal owned Capcoal operations.
One issue expected to be tackled by the MMAA will be a greater input into mining education. This may include a push to consolidate national educational facilities and give some leadership to the industry in terms of educational courses, ongoing professional development and what the industry requires for the future to sustain the industry as the most important contributor to the national economy.
"We aim to make ourselves more professional across Australia by assisting in terms of formulating workable legislation, identifying what training is needed for the industry and also feeding people back into universities for our mining industries ongoing survival," McKendry said.
