In Rio Tinto Coal and Allied's (RTCA) October 2007 edition of Mine Matters, you can read about Tim Veness and Bryant Delforce's recent achievements. Tim is a 33 year old Mine Geologist and Bryant, a 23 year old Graduate Electrical Engineer. Both men are from RTCA's Hunter Valley Operations and in June 2007, they swapped the office desk for seven days of inspiration as part of the Outward Bound Catalyst Leadership Development Program.

More than 500 Hunter Valley students have already braved the elements in youth foundation and leadership courses since 1999, thanks to over $416,000 in funding from the Coal & Allied Community Trust and significant support from other local individuals, businesses and foundations. 
 
Tim and Bryant joined ten other professionals from various industries on the June Catalyst program, held in Namadgi National Park, on the outskirts of Canberra.
 
The course, featuring abseiling, caving and orienteering, is designed to help emerging leaders develop the skills and experience to take on challenges in their lives and careers.
 
Tim said the experience provided unique opportunities to develop team building skills and self awareness in team situations.
 

Outward Bound offers a learning environment that challenges your comfort zone, whilst maintaining an exceptional standard of safety, similar to the safety culture within RTCA. The experience has been a great benefit and I recommend it to anyone who wants to improve their leadership capabilities.

 Both Tim and Bryant agreed this opportunity would benefit colleagues in their own work teams and emerging leaders across their organisation. Tim goes further, wanting to recommend the program to his friends as well.

To read more about the Catalyst program and check upcoming dates, click here.