The Northparkes Management Team decided in August to nominate Dr Stegman for the award for his leadership and commitment to Northparkes in developing a core set of values and reducing injuries by over 70 per cent in 2008. However, their decision to nominate Dr Stegman was not shared with him, who found out some months later, much to his surprise, when he was announced as a finalist.

Dr Stegman, in his acceptance speech, thanked his management team for their work and all the staff at Northparkes whom he has shared the journey with.

“This award recognises all the staff and management team at Northparkes who have worked hard to improve the safety and culture at Northparkes, the people are what make Northparkes a successful business and I have been privileged to work with such a great workforce,” he said.

Northparkes also received Highly Commended in the Metalliferous Mine of the Year category for the development of a Certificate 1 Resources and Infrastructure which provides students an insight into the industry whilst contributing units towards their Higher School Certificate.

“This program gives students a taste of mining which assists them in determining the career they wish to pursue after secondary school. Mining is difficult to learn in a class room and this program gives students the practical skills and on the job training,” Dr Stegman said.