The award recognised her leadership and contributions through the Decarbonisation Accelerated Project and was presented at the CRC TiME Annual Forum Dinner in Darwin recently.
The award celebrates individuals and organisations driving excellence in collaboration, knowledge translation, and community-centred approaches that support positive mine closure and transition outcomes.
For Ms Steen, the award represents a collective win for the Greater Whitsunday region.
From visionary leaders and dedicated industry representatives to passionate community members, we are all working together to reimagine the future of our region and its industries.
“I’ve simply had the privilege of holding some key pieces of work. For my team and the stakeholders who walk beside us in this work every day, it’s a moment to pause and celebrate the impact of our collaboration — and to feel seen and valued for the work we do behind the scenes,” Ms Steen said.
GW3 Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the award reflects the depth and impact of the work being delivered through Decarbonisation Accelerated.
“The Decarbonisation Accelerated Project has laid a strong foundation for positive regional impact. As a first-of-its-kind, long-term initiative in Australia, its success is being driven by strong collaboration, even as the full benefits are yet to be realised,” Ms Porter said.
“Our project team has taken the heat out of the decarbonisation conversation by focusing on the evidence that decarbonisation and mining can continue to co-exist in our region.
“By highlighting the region’s strengths and focusing on changes that make sound business sense, we’ve shifted the narrative from challenges to possibilities—delivering tangible benefits that reduce emissions and enhance long-term economic resilience,” Ms Porter said
The Decarbonisation Accelerated Project is helping prepare the Bowen Basin and Greater Whitsunday region for the global transition to a low-emissions economy.
The project builds on the strengths of traditional industries, such as agriculture and mining, while creating pathways for revenue diversification, new industry development, and long-term resilience.
To date, the project has:
- Delivered briefings to over 144 stakeholder groups and established 24 partnerships, securing 40% additional funding beyond the initial commitment from foundation partners.
- Provided direct support to more than 120 businesses.
- Reached over 600 participants through 10 key events.
- Seen strong impact from its Summit in 2024, with awareness and confidence in decarbonisation initiatives rising by up to 45%.
Initiatives delivered under the project include the Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit, the Decarbonisation and Gas Scope Emissions Micro credential with CQUniversity, the Greater Whitsunday METS Revenue Diversification Strategy, the METS & More Campaign, the Biomanufacturing Blueprint, and the Greater Whitsunday Reimagine Rehab Prospectus.
Looking ahead, Ms Steen said the award funds would be reinvested back into the work to continue to develop strong storytelling to share the progress potential and people behind the decarbonisation journey in the region.
“Every step forward helps build momentum, and this award will support us in continuing to connect meaningfully and engage with purpose.
“I want to see a Bowen Basin that is thriving — economically, socially, and environmentally. A region where communities feel empowered to shape their own futures, where industries are future-fit and sustainable, and where the legacy of mining is one of regeneration and opportunity.
The Decarbonisation Accelerated project is a partnership between Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) and the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE), along with major funding partner the Local Buying Foundation (LBF).
