Stella Searston holds a bachelor's degree in geology from James Cook University and a master of economic geology degree from the University of Tasmania.  She has been involved in mineral exploration, project definition, and mining studies in Australasia, the Pacific, Africa, and North America for 38 years, covering discovery to mine operations to closure. For the last 25 years, her primary focus has been helping companies with their scientific and technical information in statutory reporting and public disclosures.  This included working directly with clients on specific issues, presenting short courses summarizing regulations and standards for improved industry understanding, and actively participating in proposed rule and standard changes through detailed commentary and feedback as part of public consultation periods.  She is an active member of CIM’s Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve Committee.