We are absolutely thrilled to share some incredible news. Penny Woodward, Infrastructure Manager at Malabar Resources, has been named the winner of the Exceptional Woman Award at the NSW Mining: Women in Mining Awards 2026.
It is a recognition that could not be more deserved.
From the Orchestra Pit to the Coal Preparation Plant
Penny’s journey to mining is unlike most. Before she ever set foot on a mine site, she was performing as a professional bassoon player in touring orchestras; a career that demanded precision, discipline and the ability to perform under pressure at the highest level.
When Penny made the move into mining, she brought every one of those qualities with her. The resilience and dedication she had forged as a world-class musician never left her, and the industry is all the better for it.
Building Something From the Ground Up
Since joining Malabar Resources in 2022, Penny has played a pivotal role in the start-up of our Coal Handling and Preparation Plant, restarting an operation that had sat idle for seven years, and has since gone on to lead a multidisciplinary team of around 25 people in her role as Infrastructure Manager.
A Champion for Women in Mining
Penny’s impact extends well beyond our mine. As Chairperson of the NSW branch of the Australian Coal Preparation Society, she actively advocates for making mining a more welcoming and attractive career path for women because she knows firsthand what becomes possible when you back yourself.
A Night to Remember
Last night, that commitment, courage and brilliance was recognised on the biggest stage in our industry. Standing among the best in the business, Penny Woodward took home the Exceptional Woman Award and we could not be prouder to call her part of the Malabar Resources team.
