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Christopher Wallin Prize for Excellence in Geology 2026 Recipient Announced
QCoal Foundation is proud to announce James Cook University (JCU) Geology student Keely O’Mara as this year’s recipient of the Christopher Wallin Prize for Excellence in Geology.
Now in its third year, this $2,000 prize is awarded to the strongest performing second year Geology student at JCU
The QCoal Foundation and the QCoal Group are proud to offer this prize and to support the next generation of geologists, like Keely who is currently commencing her third year of studies.
Studying at the Townsville campus, Keely is enjoying the practical, ‘hands on’ style of her course at James Cook University.
“It’s a really well-structured course – we have great opportunities to participate in field trips and very practical experience with the range of rock samples and materials which supplement our classroom learning.
“As I begin my third year of studies, I am looking at a number of future options including exploration work and post-grad study. I am also very interested in volcanology.
“Receiving the prize will not only assist with my living expenses since I have moved from Cairns to study in Townsville, but the work experience will be especially valuable as I consider my future options.
In addition to her studies, Keely is on the Committee of the AUSIMM Student Chapter looking after Student Engagement and Social Media.
“I first heard about AUSIMM when a student engagement rep came and spoke to our class. Now I have the opportunity to do those presentations and ideally, inspire some students to continue their study and have a career in geology and Earth Sciences,” she said.
As part of the prize, recipients are also provided an opportunity to complete paid vacation work placement with the QCoal Group’s Geology team based in Brisbane.
Last year’s recipient Lucy Bye has completed work experience with the QCoal Group and has recently taken up a graduate geologist role in the Queensland mining sector.
“The Christopher Wallin Prize for Excellence in Geology was extremely beneficial not just for the fact that I could list this accomplishment on future applications and for the burst of motivation and affirmation of my hard work during my degree, but also for the work experience that came with the prize,” Lucy said.
“I truly value my time spent with the QCoal Group as I not only made professional connections and friendships with their Geology team but was exposed to a professional setting within the mining industry by encouraging and welcoming people. This gave me an inside look into the industry – something that was never possible in a university setting.”
This prize also extends QCoal Foundation’s more than a decade long partnership with JCU which includes the QCoal Foundation Scholarship, recently awarded for the 11th consecutive year.
