Ian Morley Prize
About the Ian Morley Prize
Established in 1990, the Ian Morley Prize is awarded annually to a Sustainable Minerals Institute's JKMRC or BRC research student.
Recommending authority
- Director, Julius Kruttschnitt Mineral Research Centre
- Director, WH Bryan Mining Geology Research Centre
Selection Process
The winner of the Ian Morley Prize is selected on the basis of academic achievement, reports of work experience, leadership and personality.
Nature of prize
The value of the prize is to the value of at least $3,000 but limited to the annual income of the fund.
Apply for the award
Nominations are now open for 2026.
Complete the nomination form and return to smi.admin@uq.edu.au by Friday, 29 May 2026.
The prize will be presented at the SMI Memorial Awards Day on Friday, 3 July 2026, and the winning entrant will be invited to deliver a presentation on their research.
About Ian Morley
Ian Morley commenced his career as a Mining Engineer in 1926 after graduating in both mining and metallurgical engineering from Melbourne University.
In 1940 he was appointed State Mining Engineer and Chief Inspector of Mines in Queensland, remaining the Senior Technical Officer in the Mines Department until his retirement in 1969, when he was awarded the Imperial Service Order for distinguished service. Thereafter he practiced as a consultant in minerals and petroleum.
In 1976 Ian joined the JKMRC as a part time Research Associate to record the history of sand mining in Queensland and New South Wales. His research resulted in the publication Black Sands – A History of the Mineral Sand Mining Industry in Eastern Australia’ which was published in 1981.
Nominate for the award
Ian Morley Prize nomination details for 2026:
- Nominations are now open and close on Friday, 29 May 2026.
Complete the nomination form and return to smi.admin@uq.edu.au by the closing date.