Refiti Tovi is a proud Turrbal woman and the niece of the late Turrbal Elder, Songwoman Maroochy Barambah. Raised in culture and guided by her Elders, she has learned traditional Lore and Protocol. With over a decade of experience in Early Childhood Education, Refiti is deeply passionate about empowering the next generation and strengthening her community through truth-telling, advocacy and cultural connection. Refiti is here with us today to deliver the Welcome to Country on behalf of the Turrbal People of Brisbane.

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.

Reg has built a distinguished career in metallurgy and gold mining over the past 25+ years. After studying Chemistry and Extractive Metallurgy at Murdoch University, he began his journey at Telfer Gold Mine in 1997. Reg has since held senior roles across multiple Australian gold operations and now serves as Principal Specialist Metallurgy at Gold Fields, supporting both Australian and International sites. He plays a key role in transferring successful practices from Australia to global operations, driving consistency and innovation across the business. A strong advocate for mentoring and practical training, Reg combines deep technical expertise with a passion for continuous improvement. Known for his approachable leadership style and trademark question, “What’s the worst that could happen?”, he continues to inspire teams and enhance operational performance. Reg and his partner Juls live in Albany, WA.

Martin Lynch is a graduate of The University of Queensland where he earned a BE Chemical Engineering, after which he worked in a variety of operational and analytical roles in several mining companies, including Rio Tinto and Iluka Resources. In 2009 he became the owner and manager of a small business specialising in solar hot water, solar power and energy storage. He sold the business in 2024, and since then has been pursuing a PhD at the University of Queensland’s Sustainable Minerals Institute. He has an interest in how the business of mining is driven by events and trends in the broader economy, on which he has written several academic papers and a book, Mining in World History.