Helen Degeling is a geologist and recognised, influential advocate for minerals development that delivers positive ESG outcomes and meets the demands of a just transition towards decarbonisation. She has previously held roles as a researcher, exploration and mine geologist, and exploration manager for junior precious, base and critical metal explorers, as well as leadership positions in critical minerals and sustainable mining across government and industry. Helen is now Director of Geoscience and Sustainability at Mining3, where she combines her traditional geological expertise and passion for circularity, sustainability and traceability to drive innovation and deliver practical solutions for the resources industry’s ‘next generation’ challenges.

Stephen Durkin is CEO of AusIMM, the peak body for professionals working in the resources sector. Founded in 1893 and operating under Royal Charter, AusIMM represents 15,000 members all over the world. Since being appointed CEO in 2017, AusIMM has embarked on a significant change program to be a more contemporary organisation with a stronger external focus. AusIMM now delivers an expanded range of professional development and plays a more influential role in upholding professional standards and shaping some of our most important industry conversations. Stephen has extensive experience in association management, including five years as CEO of Engineers Australia and previously over 15 years experience at National Australia Bank in several executive roles.

Gerard Barron became involved in the early strategic development and financing of DeepGreen during its formation in 2011 and stepped into the role of DeepGreen’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in 2018. From July 2013 until becoming Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in 2017, Mr. Barron served as a strategic advisor to DeepGreen Board and shareholders. Mr. Barron is a seasoned entrepreneur with a track record of building global companies in battery technology, media and future-oriented resource development both as a chief executive officer and strategic investor. In 2001, Mr. Barron founded Adstream, a global advertising technology and services provider, and served as the company’s Chief Executive Officer until December 2013. During that time, Adstream grew from a single office in Sydney to over 40 offices in 30 countries around the world and over $100 million in global revenue per year. Mr. Barron has also been a first money investor in industry-leading companies including Nautilus Minerals and Sirtex Medical.

Melissa Harris PSM is the Chief Executive Officer of Geoscience Australia, our national geoscience agency delivering trusted information and services that support a strong economy, resilient society and sustainable environment. Its activities are extensive and include the 35-year $3.4 billion Resourcing Australia’s Prosperity initiative that will find the critical minerals and strategic materials vital to our future and the transition to net zero. It also includes the $200 million partnership with the United States on Earth observation through the Landsat Next program as well as the provision of satellite positioning, through the Positioning Australia initiative. Melissa is an experienced chief executive who has worked in government for over 30 years leading change and innovation programs in land administration and planning. Melissa received the Public Service Medal in the 2023 Kings Birthday Honours for outstanding public service to state and local government, and transformation in the areas of geospatial, planning and land administration in Victoria.

Peter Burton is a Health, Safety, Environment & Community Engagement executive, with over three decades’ of experience leading cultural change to drive business compliance, engagement and safe and efficient outcomes. Peter began his leadership journey in the high pressure environment of emergency medical response, holding leadership roles in community organisations, dedicated to protecting the public interest, such as St John Ambulance, Surf Life Saving and Rotary. In recent years Peter has continued his leadership journey within the resources sector, with companies like Fortescue, Atlas Iron, Karara Mining, Warrikal and Hitachi Rail. Further, Peter has volunteered his time and expertise, working with the Chamber of Minerals and Energy and the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation & Safety as part of the Mining Industry Advisory Council on important initiatives such as mental health and Work Health and Safety Legislation harmonisation. Peter is currently a committee member with the AusIMM Health and Safety Society. Peter is passionate about positive communication and a strong advocate for the philosophy of “crucial conversations” to develop high performing teams. Peter delivers results through his commitment to living open and honest leadership and workforce engagement.