2008 Queensland Mining Industry Health & Safety Conference

In August, I was lucky enough to be chosen for an all expenses paid "holiday" to the 2008 Queensland Mining Industry Health & Safety Conference. Although the Conference was held during the mid semester assessment period and added to my already high stress levels, if I had the chance to go again, I definitely would. It was an amazing experience that I recommend to anyone who will listen. I know that safety may not be the most interesting thing on your mind, but the conference is hardly someone preaching about safety. There were heaps of different break-out groups, so if you didn't find one session interesting, you could have your choice of three different programs running at the same time. The worst part would be having to choose between the different sessions.

I found it really interesting because each speaker explained in detail how their job is done, or how the mine operates, instead of just assuming common knowledge. The conference focussed a lot more on the changes happening in mining, which were brought about by safety concerns. For example, automation was discussed on many occasions, which shows that there is still quite a push towards remote controlled mines. There was even an innovations session, where ordinary people (not CEO's or management bodies) working at mine sites had come up with new concepts to prevent injuries. This was done like the New Inventors on TV, and even had the same host. It was great to see that the companies were supporting the new ideas, even if they did cost more money.

The social events were even better, as everyone there wanted to have fun and meet new people. I got to talk to people that I never would have dreamed of meeting, especially in my first year of uni. Add to this the fact that there was free food and drinks (and yes, it was unlimited) and it was pretty much heaven for poor students.

I am extremely grateful for the sponsorship to attend the conference. Without the sponsorship, I wouldn't have been able to go for at least another few years. So to anyone who thinks safety is boring, this is definitely a conference that will change your mind.