Tradie-Lady Wins Big! Hinchinbrook Local Shines at 2025 QRC and WIMARQ Resources Awards

Hinchinbrook’s Kylee Frankee has been awarded the Exceptional Tradeswoman, Technician, and Operator Award at the 2025 BMA Mitsubishi Alliance Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and Women in Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ) Awards. With 16 years of experience as an Electrical and Instrument Technician, Kylee has earned a reputation for her expertise, leadership, and dedication to supporting apprentices and advocating for mental health in the workplace. A passionate mentor, she also champions programs for women and Indigenous youth in the resources sector. Proudly representing Hinchinbrook, Kylee’s achievement highlights the power of small communities producing big talent.

Local Tradie Wins Resource Industry Award

Hinchinbrook was proudly represented at the 2025 BMA Mitsubishi Alliance Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and Women in Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ) Awards, as Ingham local Kylee Frankee was honoured for her outstanding contribution to the resources sector.

Kylee took home the Exceptional Tradeswoman, Technician, and Operator Award, standing out in a wide field of nominees. With 16 years of industry experience, she has built a strong reputation as a highly skilled Electrical and Instrument Technician, as well as a respected mentor and leader in her field.

Her influence goes well beyond her technical expertise. Kylee is a passionate advocate for mental health in the workplace, supports apprentices through hands-on training and personal development, and actively promotes leadership among her peers. She is also a proud supporter of programs like the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) and the Australian Indigenous Education Foundation, helping to inspire and guide the next generation of tradespeople, particularly women and Indigenous youth, toward rewarding careers in the resources sector.

Member for Hinchinbrook, Nick Dametto MP, praised Kylee’s achievement, describing it as a strong reflection of the region’s values.

“As the State Member for Hinchinbrook, I speak on behalf of the entire electorate when I say we are incredibly proud of Kylee,” Mr Dametto said.

“It was an honour to attend the event, witness Kylee’s passion and professionalism firsthand, and meet so many other inspiring women who are driving change and innovation in the industry.”

Miss Frankee said she felt truly humbled to be recognised.

“If you’d told my younger self this was possible, I’m not sure she would’ve believed it,” she said.

“I’m proud of my journey with South32, and prouder still to represent the Hinchinbrook Shire. It’s a reminder that big things can come from small places. Growing up in a small regional town shaped who I am, and I hope this moment shows other young girls from communities like ours that they can build strong, successful careers in these industries.’”