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International Men’s Day: Positive Role Models and the Heart of Our Industry
If the rise of moustaches (thanks to Movember) hasn’t twigged you yet—today is 19th November 2024, International Men’s Day. This day is about more than moustaches and mental health; it’s a chance to recognise the immense contributions men make to society. In industries like the resource sector, men power not just our country but our economy, working tirelessly to extract, transport, and refine the materials that keep Australia moving.
Positive Role Models: Leading with Heart
The theme for this year, “Positive Role Models,” couldn’t be more relevant to us at NB Industries. It aligns perfectly with our core value of “Share and Solve.” We believe in tackling challenges together—sharing knowledge, offering support, and finding solutions as a team. This isn’t just a workplace mantra; it’s a way of life. Positive role models show us that success isn’t about individual achievement—it’s about uplifting those around you.
The Weight of Remote Work
We service critical sectors like mining, transport, and resource services—industries where long hours in remote Australian locations are the norm. In these demanding environments, being a positive role model carries unique weight. From the Pilbara mines to Queensland’s coalfields, many of our teammates, customers, and colleagues work far from home, often missing family milestones. For fathers, these sacrifices can weigh heavily. That’s why we’ve worked hard to create a workplace that feels like a second family—a place where support isn’t just offered; it’s a given. Whether it’s through mentorship, mateship, or simply having someone to lean on, we’re committed to ensuring no one feels alone in their journey.
A Stark Reminder: The Cost of Silence
This International Men’s Day is also a stark reminder of the challenges men face. As highlighted by today’s visual presentation of 2,500 empty pairs of shoes on the lawn of Parliament House in Canberra, we’re reminded that male suicide takes one life every three hours in Australia. That’s two ambulance callouts every hour.
Mentorship: More Than a Job Skill
At NB Industries, we take this responsibility seriously. Mentorship is one of the most powerful ways we embody these values. For our apprentices, mentorship isn’t just about learning a trade; it’s about having someone in your corner who believes in you. Dr Peter Goss, a leadership researcher, put it best: “The best mentors don’t create followers; they create other leaders.” At NB Industries, this means building confidence, encouraging career shifts, and ensuring everyone knows they matter—not just as workers, but as people.
Finding Joy and Purpose in Work
We also believe that loving what you do, and knowing you’re supported to follow your interests, is essential to happiness. It’s not just about filling roles; it’s about fostering a sense of purpose. Whether that means mastering new skills, exploring a different path, or simply finding joy in your day-to-day work, we want everyone on our team to thrive. When people are passionate about their work, they bring energy and resilience that benefit everyone around them.
The best mentors don’t create followers; they create other leaders.”
Recognising Fathers and Families
But work is only part of the picture. For many men in our industry, their greatest role isn’t on the job—it’s at home. Fathers and partners sacrifice time with their families to keep our industries moving. On a day like today, we want to honour not just their professional contributions but also their dedication to being role models for the next generation. As fathers, brothers, mates, and mentors, these men lead with heart and show us what it means to care deeply about the people in their lives.
Join the Conversation
This International Men’s Day, we’d like to hear from you. Who’s been a positive role model in your life, and what have they taught you? And how can we, as an industry, better support the men who keep our country moving? Share your thoughts below and let’s continue the conversation.
To all the men out there—in high-vis, in the workshop, or on the road—thank you for your strength, dedication, and compassion. You’re the reason our industries thrive, and your commitment to “Share and Solve” makes a difference every day.
Happy International Men’s Day.
Mick Selby
