Bill Turner, founding chair of the Australian-Africa Minerals Energy Group (AAMEG), was recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list 2016 as an Officer of the Order of Australia for his services to the resources industry.
He was honoured for his service to the mining sector and international relations through leadership in business and exploration collaboration between Australia and Africa.
Turner constantly promoted an environment focused on building positive and productive relationships between business and the local community. He believes that with business success comes the opportunity for significant social and economic development, which leads to alleviating poverty throughout Africa.
AAMEG was founded in 2011 and supports Australian resource companies operating in Africa.
The company’s CEO Trish O’Reilly acknowledged Turner’s efforts and said it is through his commitment and dedication that they have such a thriving organisation.
“Australia is an important neighbour to Africa and has a key role to play in helping African countries realise their mineral potential, while maintaining the reputation of Australian operators for providing positive socio-economic improvements to their host communities,” she said.
“AAMEG supports member companies operating in Africa and facilitates collaboration between industry, governments and key stakeholders, contributing to the sustainable development of African economies to mutual benefit, while continuing to build positive and productive relationships with African governments.”