Hogarth was recognised for work completed for his undergraduate thesis, entitled Self-heating analysis of sub-butiminous coal.

Hogarth’s supervisor, Basil Beamish, senior lecturer in Mining Engineering at The University of Queensland, said the project involved many long hours with Hogarth taking gas samples through the night on occasion.

“Luke’s commitment to the project has helped us define the off-gas evolution that occurs during a heating as well as providing realistic time frames for hot spot development. The results of his work have been taken on board by the mine involved and by Callide Power Station,” said Beamish.

The work forms part of ongoing research at the university into the mechanisms governing heating in coal, and has the support of the Australian Coal Association Research Program (ACARP).

Hogarth is currently employed by Thiess at The South Walker Creek operation and his visit to Brisbane to receive his award was sponsored by Thiess.