Queensland state’s first female Commissioner for Mine Safety and Health

Kate du Preez is to become, a pioneering mining expert, is to become the state’s first female Commissioner for Mine Safety and Health.

Minister for State Development and Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dr Anthony Lynham said Kate du Preez would become the first woman to hold the position since it was created in 2009.

Kate du Preez – also the first South African woman to obtain a mine manager’s Certificate of Competency in coal mining – will commence work next week after a global search.

“Mrs du Preez brings more than 16 years of experience in operational mining in South Africa and Queensland to this important position,” Dr Lynham said.“She holds a Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering and was identified as the best person for the job following a global recruitment process and consultation with industry and union representatives.”

“Mrs du Preez’s experience and expertise is welcome as government works with unions and industry to implement its five-point action plan to tackle the re-emergence of coal workers’ pneumoconiosis,” concluded DR Lynham.

The Commissioner for Mine Safety and Health role involves:

• Reporting directly to Dr Lynham on all mine safety and health issues.
• Monitoring and reporting on the administration of mine safety and health legislation.
• Ensuring that the Mines Inspectorate performs as an independent regulator.
• Advocating safety on behalf of all Queensland mine workers.

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcoal.com/mining/15062016/queensland-state-first-female-commissioner-for-mine-safety-and-health-968/