Why I Joined the AusIMM

Like many of my era, my early years in exploration geology came with long spells in in the field, often working alone at remote sites. Much of this work was before the internet or handphones. I thrived in this world, even though I had very little contact with like-minded geo-scientists.

As my career developed into various management roles, I got to spend more time in cities where I could begin to socialize with other geologists. Then a friend encouraged me to join the AusIMM, and so opened up a new world of colleges to share experiences. This friend could easily have been associated with one of the other professional organizations, so it was the first personal contact of this nature that pointed me towards the AusIMM. My university was focussed on applied geology, that included elements of surveying, mining, metallurgy and such, wherein the broad nature of the AusIMM became a good fit for me. The underlying incentive for staying with the AusIMM, or other professional organizations, is the meeting of new people, networking and sharing of experiences. The AusIMM is not just a JORC shop, but for me is more like a community, where we can share diverse interactions in science, management and social outlook. Conferences are great places to learn something new and meet people. The great excitement in attending virtual or face to face conferences is that industry advancements come from challenging, innovating and trying something new, and then sharing the success or failure, so that others can move forward.  It is the outliers and leaders who encourage diversity of thought that I find most stimulating. They are the game changers that our industry needs to survive and grow.  

Nearly 50 years after that exciting first full-time job, the world is so much more connected. LinkedIn, Facebook and other great platforms connect us to old and new friends, and new professional associations are competing for our attention. For many “urbanites”, the few months of Corona19 virus lock downs has made them aware of the mental strain that can come with isolation. Being told by the authorities to all behave in one way, such as to ensure the lock down works, or to wear the company’s uniform, or there is only the one company / Institute strategy, means we must each work harder to retain our individuality, to ensure a free and stronger community. Developing a broad network of colleges and friends with a diversity of views through the AusIMM is one way for us all to grow.