It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Erica Smyth AC – a trailblazer, a mentor, a director of immense influence, and a cherished friend to many in our industry and beyond.

Erica was a game changer for women in mining. Over nearly 40 years in the minerals and petroleum sectors, she carved a path at a time when few women were given the opportunity, let alone a voice. From her early days as a young geologist in the bush, through key leadership roles at BHP, BHP-Utah, BHP Petroleum and Woodside, to her later career as a highly respected company Director, Erica shaped conversations, projects and people across the Australian resources landscape.

Growing up in Geraldton, Erica’s first job was cleaning crayfish tails during the school holidays – an early lesson in hard work and practicality. She discovered geology almost by accident while studying chemistry, and the moment she realised it would take her out of the lab and into the field, she was hooked. That enthusiasm never faded. Even in recent years she spoke of reading research papers for pleasure and exploring landscapes through her “geologist’s eyes.” Her curiosity was lifelong.

Erica was known for her clarity of thought and her rare ability to bring people together. She often said she was “an OK geologist, but good with people” – a characteristic that made her invaluable in navigating major approvals, government negotiations and the most complex decision making in our industry. She listened deeply, drew out the heart of a discussion and delivered even the hardest messages with authenticity and care.

Erica’s governance contributions in the resources sector were substantial. She served as Chair of Toro Energy and as a Non-Executive Director with organisations including Emeco Holdings and the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO). She was also a key contributor to the Commonwealth Government’s CRC Program through her directorships with both the Deep Exploration Technologies CRC (DET CRC) and MinEx CRC.

Equally important to Erica was her work in health, research and community service. While working in Newman early in her career, Erica was found to have undiagnosed Type 1 diabetes, a life-threatening moment that would forever connect her to the organisations that helped her. As she often recalled: “The Royal Flying Doctor Service saved my life.”

From that point forward, Erica dedicated herself to improving health outcomes for others. She served as Chair of Diabetes Research WA for 11 years, championing scientific discovery and supporting vital research into a condition she understood intimately. She was also a Non-Executive Director of the Lions Eye Institute and a long-serving Non-Executive Director of the Royal Flying Doctor Service (Western Operations) – roles she approached with the same rigour, compassion and curiosity she brought to her industry work.

Erica’s contributions were recognised with many honours. In 2018, she was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours, recognising her eminent service to the minerals and petroleum industries, to scientific research and to the community. She also received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Chamber of Minerals and Energy (WA) and was elected a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering.

Beyond her professional achievements, it is the personal details that capture the Erica we will miss most. Erica loved champagne, and her collection was legendary – an expression of her curiosity, celebration and quiet cheekiness. Erica was strongly supported by her family.

Erica’s great passion outside work was travel. She sought out the remote corners of the world – Antarctica, Botswana, Greenland, PNG – places with wild geology, striking landscapes and unique flora and fauna. She also loved fishing, AFL, live theatre and a good book. She brought the same curiosity and dry humour to her downtime as she did to her professional life.

For all her achievements, Erica remained the same genuine, generous person – always ready to listen, always ready to help, always backing those who needed someone in their corner.

Vale, Erica. And thank you.