Resourcing

The Queensland Exploration Council supports explorers on their pathway to production

Resourcing

Governance of the QEC

QEC is guided by a dedicated Leadership Team of exploration specialists who generously contribute their expertise and time. The day-to day running of QEC is managed by QRC Secretariat Staff.

Kim Wainwright

Kim Wainwright

QEC Chair

Kim is a prominent figure in the exploration and mining industry, serving as a Business owner, Director, and passionate advocate. As the CEO and founder of Xplore Resources, a reputable exploration and professional services firm, Kim focuses on collaborating with businesses to facilitate the development of exploration and mining projects, both within Australia and internationally.

Since 2019, Kim has held the esteemed position of Chair of the Queensland Exploration Council (QEC), where she actively works alongside the sector to promote Queensland’s exceptional prospectivity on a global scale. Her dedication to advancing the industry has garnered recognition, earning her a well-deserved place on the prestigious “100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining” (WIM 100) list in 2022.

Kim’s expertise extends beyond her leadership roles, as she holds multiple Directorships in various sectors, including the ASX, not-for-profit organisations, and the private sector. Additionally, Kim maintains strong community ties through her philanthropic endeavors, notably serving on the Board of the Prince Charles Hospital Foundation since 2018.

With her wealth of experience, unwavering commitment, and extensive network, Kim continues to make significant contributions to the exploration and mining industry, while actively engaging in meaningful community initiatives.

Stephen

Stephen Kelemen

QEC Deputy Chair – Petroleum & Gas

Stephen’s remarkable 38-year career with Santos Ltd has equipped him with a wealth of diverse experience in the petroleum industry. His expertise spans various crucial areas, including reservoir management, development, operations, exploration, joint venture (JV) management, research and development (R&D), and mergers and acquisitions (M&A) evaluation. Stephen’s extensive background underscores his deep knowledge and proficiency in navigating the intricacies of the petroleum sector.

Darren

Darren Walker

QEC Deputy Chair – Minerals & Coal

With over 18 years of extensive expertise in exploration, mining operations, marketing, and corporate management across diverse sectors including coal, iron ore, gold, other metals, petroleum, and gas, Darren is a seasoned resources professional. His passion for exploration and the exploration industry is evident in his unwavering commitment and enthusiasm. Darren’s well-rounded experience equips him with a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies and dynamics of the industry, positioning him as a valuable asset in driving success and innovation.

THE QEC IS SUPPORTED BY QRC SECRETARIAT STAFF

The day-to-day running of QEC is managed by the Marketing Manager and QRC Resource Policy Director

Katie

Katie-Anne Mulder

QRC Policy Director, Resources

Katie-Anne is the Director of Resources Policy at the Queensland Resources Council (QRC), and plays a pivotal role in overseeing the operations of the Queensland Exploration Council (QEC). With a track record of spearheading significant reforms, Katie-Anne has successfully led the development of crucial initiatives such as uranium policy, the consensus model for overlapping tenures, Land Court reforms, and the Queensland strategy for the Cooper Basin. Notably, she has also contributed to policy development within government at both the state and federal levels. Katie-Anne’s exceptional experience on both sides of the policy spectrum equips her with unique insights into the emergence, implementation, and evolution of regulations.

Samantha

Samantha Nasternak

QEC Marketing Manager

With over a decade of dedicated service to the Queensland Resources Council (QRC), Samantha has amassed extensive expertise in digital marketing, event management, stakeholder engagement, and corporate communications. As the QEC Marketing Manager, Samantha embraces the future prospects for the Queensland Exploration Council (QEC) with enthusiasm and passion for her work.