Thank you for the photos Davo and welcome back
Roger chaired the meeting from a sitting position, because his back was giving him heaps…..
We heard from Ana and Ariel about what they actually do. A most interesting talk more info below….. Young Arne was engrossed in something on his phone, probably working on his degree…
A little bit about The Big Dig, however a meeting was held last Friday and will no doubt be on the agenda at tomorrow's meeting.
Les Pontin gave an overview of his sleep out coming up soon, link here to donate on line. https://www.ceosleepout.org.au/fundraisers/lespontin/queensland
Guest Speakers: Ana Samanta Chueco & Ariel Costa — Data, Transparency and Innovation Across Mining, Technology and Public Services
The Rotary Club recently welcomed Ana Samanta Chueco, an economist specialized in mining governance and transparency, and Ariel Costa, a geologist and geospatial systems specialist, who shared their professional journeys working at the intersection of natural resources, data science, and public impact.
Ana Samanta Chueco has developed an international career focused on transparency, sustainable development, and evidence-based public policy. She previously worked at Argentina’s Secretariat of Mining and at the Argentine Chamber of Mining Companies, where she led the development of strategic roadmaps for the implementation of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI). Her work contributed to strengthening governance standards and promoting transparency within the extractive sector.
In addition, she coordinated the design of statistical roadmaps aimed at improving the reliability and accessibility of mining sector data, supporting both public institutions and industry organizations in building trustworthy information systems. Ana holds a Master’s degree in International Policy and Economics and is also trained as a cartographer, combining economic analysis with spatial data and mapping methodologies.
Her expertise in data systems and spatial analysis led her to collaborate on research projects at The University of Queensland, contributing to studies that informed public service planning affecting more than two million residents in Brisbane.
Ariel Costa is a geologist with extensive experience in systems implementation and software automation testing. He is currently completing a Master’s degree in Geomatics and has worked on digital innovation initiatives within Argentina’s mining administration. During his time at the Secretariat of Mining, Ariel developed an interactive map integrating baseline environmental and geological information, enabling future research and improving institutional transparency. He also contributed to the prototype development of an open web platform designed to make economic and mining information accessible to the public.
Currently, Ariel works with Rio Tinto ISIT, collaborating in the development of technological systems supporting modern mining operations.
Together, Ana and Ariel are beginning a collaborative research initiative with J Charles University focused on intensive care research and spatial statistical analysis, applying geospatial methodologies to support healthcare decision-making and improve outcomes through data-driven insights.
Their presentation highlighted how transparency, technology, and interdisciplinary collaboration can strengthen institutions, support sustainable industries, and ultimately improve the wellbeing of communities.