9 April 2025

Narrabri’s Cassidy Morley making her mark on the NSW mining industry

Cassidy Morley, a Narrabri local and CHPP Operator at Whitehaven’s Narrabri Mine, was recently recognised as one of just two finalists in the Exceptional Tradeswoman, Operator or Technician category at the NSW Women in Mining Awards.

The NSW Minerals Council’s Women in Mining Awards is the premier event recognising the achievements of women and gender diversity champions across the state’s approximately 30,000-strong resources sector, and Cassidy’s recognition is a testament to her rapid growth and impressive impact in just a few short years.

Born and bred in Narrabri, Cassidy joined Whitehaven in 2022 after serving in the Australian Army. Drawn back to her hometown and the community spirit Narrabri offers, she made the decision to pursue a career in mining and hasn’t looked back.

Cassidy started out in Whitehaven’s traineeship program and after completing her traineeship ahead of time, she has progressed to become a Level 3 Operator and taken on an Acting Supervisor role.

“Every day is different,” Cassidy said. “Work could include train loading, dozer operations, control room operations, cleaning and maintenance, or bobcat and loader operations. It’s a hands-on role, and there’s variety in every shift.”

While the job comes with challenges, particularly working in the elements, Cassidy has embraced every aspect of the role.

“There’s a lot of hands-on, dirty work involved but that’s just part of the day-to-day. There are also lots of opportunities for upskilling and career development, and Whitehaven has been really supportive of that. The traineeship program provides opportunities for local people to get a foot in the door, learn on the job and set themselves up for a long career in mining.”

“I’m now doing a trainer assessor course as well as completing emergency response training and I’m excited for what’s next. It’s great to be able to stay living in the region while also pursuing my career – I get the best of both worlds.”

As the first female trainee in the Narrabri CHPP, Cassidy knows the importance of paving the way for others. She’s used her experience to mentor and encourage the next wave of trainees and her presence has helped shift perceptions about what women can achieve in mining.

“I was very humbled and grateful to have even been nominated,” she said of the Women in Mining awards. “To be named a finalist was next level.”

Living in Narrabri with a short commute to work has many benefits, including being able to participate in local community sports. Cassidy juggles playing rugby league for the Boggabri Kangaroos and local rugby union for the Narrabri Blue Boars, while also continuing to play representative rugby league for both the Australian Army and the Australian Defence Force.

When she’s not on the field or at work, you’ll likely find her outdoors. “I like to go fishing and camping,” she said.

“I enjoy the laid-back lifestyle in Narrabri. It’s a great place to live and work and has so much on offer in the surrounding areas.”

Although she once thought she’d follow in her mum’s footsteps and become a nurse, Cassidy has found her calling in mining and she’s encouraging other young women to consider the path she’s taken.

“I’d say go for it. It’s a great opportunity and a great pathway into the mining industry – and that applies to all young people in our region, not just women. It gives you the skills and knowledge you need to keep developing your career.”

“We’re lucky to have Narrabri Mine on our doorstep so let’s make the most of it.”

With strong ties to Narrabri and the local area, a solid work ethic and desire to mentor and support others, Cassidy is setting a strong example for others starting out in the industry.

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