As Indigenous participation in Queensland's resources sector continues its rise, some of the cohort's most talented were recognised for their achievements at one of the state's most prestigious First Nations events on Wednesday.

The Queensland Resources Council's Indigenous Awards are held every two years to celebrate significant contributions of Indigenous people and businesses in resources, one of the state's most important industries, of which 5.4 per cent are First Nations employees.

This year's award winners included Jemma Kemp and Clinton Harding (Thiess), Jameika Maddock (Origin Energy), Alyssa Ivinson from Glenala State High School, Ochre Australia with Whitehaven and Stanmore Resources' Indigenous Trainee Programme.

Resources companies increased their spend in 2023-24 with Indigenous business operators by 45.6 per cent to $207.4 million from 103 companies, a whopping 300 per cent increase in five years.

The trend since the 2017 financial year was reflected by the latest QRC data, which showed resources companies had boosted spending with Indigenous companies by 298 per cent, well above an industry-wide increase of 103 per cent.

The ongoing economic progress had tangible effects, with the average wage for Indigenous employees now $134,000, a 4 per cent increase from last year and reflective of more First Nations people in leadership positions.

Most employees worked in machinery operation, trades and professional roles, and 13.6 per cent were in training or apprenticeship programs, up from 12.8 per cent last year.

Women accounted for a record 32 per cent of the resources sector's Indigenous workforce, significantly higher than the industry-wide figure of 23 per cent.

QRC chief executive officer Janette Hewson said award winners and nominees were leading examples of the workforce behind Queensland's resources sector, which contributed $120.2 billion to the state economy last year.

"A diverse workforce is a stronger workforce, and I'm very pleased to see the commitment of QRC member companies to reflect the communities in which we operate through our workforce," she said.

"The resources sector is continually looking to increase participation of Indigenous people, and we hope these awards will inspire more into one of the many rewarding careers available."

Resources companies across Queensland have actively encouraged Indigenous people into their workforces, particularly in regional and remote areas where they operate.

Biodiversity Australia, a fully Indigenous-owned consultancy that works with Bravus Mining to deliver ecological services and cultural heritage support, was a finalist in the 'Exceptional Indigenous Business' category, for the quality of environmental work it delivered for the Carmichael coal mine, its supporting infrastructure works in central Queensland, and its investment in Indigenous partnerships and regional procurement.

Biodiversity Australia managing director Steve Noy said the company was continually employing more Indigenous workers, increasing its training and business capability, while boosting compliance and cultural capability.

The partnership with Bravus was pivotal to Biodiversity Australia creating strong economic outcomes for Indigenous communities in North Queensland.

"Our engagement with Bravus has created long-term opportunities, not just contracts," the Muruwari man said.

"It has empowered us to invest in regional communities, expand our presence in Townsville, and support dozens of First Nations people into sustainable, purpose-driven careers."

Biodiversity Australia's collaboration with Bravus began in 2018 through the Carmichael Rail Network, delivering environmental consultancy and on-ground services in ecology, vegetation management, and fauna management.

The company's award-winning Indigenous Pathways Model mentors and trains participants to help boost Indigenous employment, and the foundation partnership enabled Biodiversity Australia to establish a permanent office in Townsville, which has become a thriving operation.

QRC's 2025 awards acknowledged people and projects which were building cultural awareness and inclusion in the resources sector, as well as businesses using traditional and cultural practices to improve the sector's approach to environmental and social outcomes.

A full list of award winners and finalists is available online.