Felipe is a highly experienced professional dedicated to developing and implementing innovative solutions for mine rehabilitation and closure. As Environmental Research Scientist – Rehabilitation at Alcoa’s Forest Research Centre, he leads the development and execution of their environmental rehabilitation research program. Collaborating with Australian universities, Alcoa corporate teams, and operational staff, Felipe delivers sustainable and effective rehabilitation outcomes across Alcoa mines. Holding a Master's in Natural Resource Management and a PhD in Environmental Engineering from The University of Queensland, Felipe combines a strong academic foundation with over 10 years of practical experience in the mining industry. His expertise encompasses mine restoration and closure, biodiversity conservation, water and tailings management, strategic sustainability planning, the circular economy in mining, and contaminated site assessment and remediation. His proven track record includes leading applied resea

Melinda Hilton is an RGS Consultant with a PhD in Environmental Geochemistry and a BSc (Hons) in Environmental Science majoring in geology and chemistry. The PhD thesis evaluated mine waste vadose hydrology and hydro-geochemical aspects to quantify how constructed mine landforms perform. Melinda has five years of consulting experience and has completed operational and closure and rehabilitation projects for coal and metalliferous mines. Melinda applies her skills in soil science, vadose hydrology, and the use of tracers to measure water residence times and detect the presence of preferential flow paths in soil cover systems, waste rock dumps and tailings storage facilities. Melinda holds current S11 and S1, S2, and S3 certifications required in Queensland to manage and supervise field test pit and drilling programs and is proficient with QGIS.

Anna Goto (NER, RPEQ, CPEng) is a Senior Water Engineer and Project Manager at Red Earth Engineering - A Geosyntec Company, based in Brisbane. She has a diverse background in the water resources industry, with experience in erosion and sediment control, dam operations, hydraulic structure design, and flood modelling. Throughout her career, Anna has developed a deep appreciation for the impact of water on both natural and built environments and the importance of communicating the value and risks associated with this vital resource. Currently, Anna serves as a Deputy Engineer of Record (EoR) for tailings storage facilities and water dams at two coal mine sites. Unlike most EoRs who typically have a background in geotechnical engineering, Anna brings a unique perspective with her expertise in water engineering. Anna is passionate about advocating for appropriate water management and ensuring a sound hydrotechnical basis in civil design.