MCA Victoria pays tribute to industry advocate John Reynolds

MCA Victoria has paid tribute to mining industry pioneer and advocate John Reynolds, who made an immense contribution to the growth and success of Victoria’s mining industry as the inaugural CEO of the Victorian Chamber of Mines, one of the predecessors to MCA Victoria.

Mr Reynolds – who passed away on Saturday aged 98 – started as CEO of the Victorian Chamber of Mines after a career at Western Mining Corporation with his appointment on 6 November 1986.

The Chamber’s policy agenda included reversing the ban on mining in several Victorian regions, planning regulation, legal complexities in relation to the Mines Act in operation at the time and ensuring a common sense approach to environmental law.

The Chamber began with 61 members and a simple mission – to revitalise the mineral exploration and mining industry in Victoria.

At that time, minerals exploration expenditure in Victoria was barely $10 million per year. Much has changed. In the last 12 months Victoria’s minerals companies spent over $100 million on exploration.

John Reynolds was a passionate and energetic industry advocate who was respected across the industry and on all sides of Victorian politics.

The Chamber’s work with the Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) which he championed continues today. His work in education and industry positioning was also instrumental in creating a stronger Victorian mining industry.

Mr Reynolds is survived by his wife Frances, his children William and Pamela and two grandchildren. MCA Victoria extends its condolences to his family and all who knew him over his rich and long life.

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