Just last year, Courtney Fing was working metres up in the air, pressure cleaning shovels and draglines from the cage of an elevated work platform and off-siding with tradesmen in dog boxes hanging from the booms of coal mining draglines.

It’s a long dive from those dizzying heights into the world of safety statistics and spreadsheets where Courtney is now shaping a career in workplace health and safety.

Courtney, 20, is an example of the power of Richglen career pathways.

The journey

It started in November 2022 when Courtney moved from her job as an industrial cleaner to join Richglen as a trade assistant (TA).

"I loved being on the tools," Courtney says of her first role with Richglen.

"I loved learning how things operate; I loved seeing a job come together."

It was satisfying to see a broken-down machine brought back to life, and this hands-on experience gave Courtney great insight into Richglen’s day-to-day operations.

Fast forward to today, and Courtney is playing a key role in ensuring safe work practices for her colleagues on site through her position as Health, Safety, Environment and Quality (HSEQ) Administrator.

"I’m learning about all the things I didn’t realise went on behind the scenes," she said.

Courtney's role involves updating safety data sheets, gathering statistics, maintaining registers, generating reports and managing document control.

She ensures all safety documents are up-to-date and relevant, a key task for maintaining safety standards.

Pathway to the top

Courtney sees a future with Richglen and aims to progress within the company by following a specific career plan.

The unique pathway sets out training modules and practical experiences that will skill Courtney in areas like first aid, emergency management, risk assessment, investigative processes, and system development.

Courtney said one of the main attractions of working with Richglen was the community.

“It’s like a big family, plus everyone is always happy to teach you things and help you learn,” she said.

Work-life balance

Although she misses her mine site crew, Courtney is relieved to have escaped shift work and the travel that came with being a trade assistance.

She now works business hours in Richglen’s Mackay office.

"It’s good to be home every night," she said.

Outside the office, Courtney is an avid traveller, loves day trips, and is a fan of the beach and swimming holes.

"I love being outdoors," she says.

She has been to America, has a trip to Bali lined up for later this year and has a European adventure with friends booked for next year.

The road ahead

Courtney's journey is a testament to the benefits of pursuing a career with Richglen.

With dedication and hard work, she has moved from an entry-level position into a key workplace health and safety role within the company.

Her story serves as an inspiration to anyone aspiring to build a career in the mining industry.