Batchfire Scholarship Stars: Q&A with Riley Arnold 

We sit down with budding mechanical engineer and 2024 Batchfire Scholarship recipient, Riley Arnold, to find out how he is applying his university knowledge in the real world at our Callide Mine.  

Thanks for catching up to chat about your scholarship journey so far, Riley. How did you originally find out about the Batchfire Scholarship Program? 

I don’t actually have any family working here at Callide Mine, but I had some close friends who had received scholarships and they let me know about it.  

I made sure I was eligible and then applied!  

That’s great to hear! How has the scholarship helped you so far in your university journey? 

It’s been very handy because I haven’t had to work during the semester while studying, I just come back home every holiday and work at Callide Mine once here. 

Being able to apply the stuff I’ve been learning is great too. I’ve really enjoyed putting my knowledge into practice here! 

Well said, Riley. What have you been working on at Callide Mine during your holiday placement? 

I’ve been working in the maintenance department here, on the permanent plant equipment. So, I’ve been looking at the operational stuff like the conveyors and the infrastructure that helps with the day-to-day operations at the mine. 

I’m currently working on a project to extend out a platform, to create a loading platform, which is what I’ll be doing for the rest of my placement here.  

It’s also been great getting advice from the people I work with, because they all have so much to offer.  

We are glad to hear you’re gaining real-world experience and mentoring! Did you always want to work in Resources? 

I did sort of see myself working in a mine because, growing up in Biloela, I’ve always been around it. I was pretty interested in all the processes and especially the machinery! 

I still have a while to go in my degree, but this is persuading me down the path of resources. I like the regional life and there are just so many different career opportunities here.  

You’re right, there really is something for everyone at Callide Mine. What advice would you give other students looking at a Batchfire Scholarship? 

My advice to others would be to give it a crack – just give it a go. There are so many different roles and areas here. You can figure out what you like, what you don’t like, and this industry is suited to a range of degrees depending on what you want to do. 

From an engineering point of view, it’s great being able to get out and put theoretical knowledge into practice. 

Lastly, what is your best memory on-site at Callide so far? 

Probably my first week here during the induction period, just going around seeing all the big machinery and having ride on them all. You don’t understand how big it all is until you’re actually out here! 

From a mechanical standpoint, I was fascinated by all the hydraulics and just watching the machines work was really interesting. 

Thanks for your time, Riley! We can’t wait to see where your Batchfire Scholarship takes you.  

The Batchfire Scholarship Program provides support for up to four students currently studying and residing in Biloela and the nearby Callide Valley, who are committed to undertaking undergraduate university education with an intended career path aligned with the sustainable resources sector. 

Each student is given $5,000 per year for university-related costs, as well guaranteed vacation work and placement opportunities.   

If you live in the Callide Valley and are looking at undertaking tertiary education, our 2025 Scholarship intake is currently open. You can find out more about applying here.  

To find out more about Batchfire you can connect with us on LinkedIn or contact us here.