Belinda Smith Memorial | Forever In Our Hearts

About
Obituary
Life Timeline
Tributes

About

Birthplace: Perth, Western Australia

Residence: Darwin, Northern Territory

Service Date: Mon, 20 April 2026, 5:00 PM

Service Location: Darwin Surf Life Saving Club

Obituary

With deep sadness we announce the passing of Belinda Robyn Smith in Darwin on 6th April 2026. Much loved Mum to Joshua, Daughter to Brenda and Stepmum to Karina, cherished by extended family, friends & colleagues.

Belinda graduated with a BSc (Hons) in Geology from the University of Western Australia in 1991, starting her own company, Rocksearch Australia, in 1995. As a Contract Geologist and Exploration Manager, Belinda travelled to many countries and made significant contributions to the Northern Territory exploration and mining industry over many decades. Since 2010, Belinda was a pioneer in the Spectral Geology field embracing the newly developed HyLogger. She was well known for being a passionate geoscientist, a valued member of the NT Government’s Northern Territory Geological Survey (NTGS), and most recently an expert in sophisticated research and mineral and image analysis technologies.

Colleagues remember Belinda for her bright smile, boundless energy, endless patience when explaining hyperspectral data, and have described her as a true champion of territory geology.

Belinda was a committed member of the Darwin Surf Life Saving community, starting as a nipper parent joining with Josh in 2006. Through dedicated and determined swim training and practice, she became a full patrolling member, gaining several additional qualifications to become a dynamic lifesaver. Fully embracing Surf Life Saving, she began rowing and competing, representing the club at carnivals across Darwin, Nhulunbuy, Broome and the World Lifesaving Champions in Adelaide.

Throughout her life Belinda applied a force that inspired those around her, and since her diagnosis, refused to let her illness define her. After a determined and inspiring 5 years living with breast cancer, she will be greatly missed by all who loved her. She will be remembered for her generosity, strength, enthusiasm, determination, inquisitive mind and bubbly personality.

To remember and celebrate Belinda's life, a memorial service will be held at Darwin Surf Life Saving Club on Monday 20th April 2026 at 5pm. A private cremation will follow. To honour Belinda’s love of life, please wear bright smart casual attire. The service will also be live streamed. In her own words "flowers just die, if you would like instead, please make a donation to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, but honestly, I'm not fussed".

Life Timeline

1970

Kindergarten, Stuart Park, Perth

1971

Perth

1977

1981

High School, Perth

1983

CSIRO, Perth

1987

Lords Recreation Centre,Subiaco, Perth

1989

Coolgardie

Coolgardie

Coolgardie

1993

Bark Hut, Mt Bundey, NT

1994

Double Island, QLD

Caboolture, QLD

1995

Byron Bay, NSW

1998

Double Island, QLD

2003

Malak, NT

2011

NTGS - AGES

2013

Casuarina Beach, NT

2015

NTGS - AGES Day

September 2015

Off to the Ball, Gothenburg NT

Bronze in Women's Surfboat Race at NT Titles, Broome, Perth

2017

July 2019

Burnett House, NT

July 2020

Ubirr Rock, Kakadu, NT

August 2022

Rowing Crew, NT

August 2023

1997 & 2023 - columnar basalt 'church floor' Kirkjubæjarklaustur

Vatnajökull, Iceland

March 2025

Parap Pool, NT

September 2025

Bayview, NT

April 2026

Casuarina, NT

Tributes

Great times at “The Hutt” and so wonderful to catch up a couple of times over the years. Remembered with great affection 🥰💐

Belinda Smith Tribute 1 Image by Kerry Lee

From the first time I met you all those years ago in Northam to the times we had in Perth hooning in your little yellow mini, feels like yesterday my friend. Your smile, the twinkle in your eyes and your passion for just about anything. I will never forget you, thank you 💝
To Brenda, Josh and Karina I am so sorry for your loss x

Desperately sad to lose such a good friend. Thank you for teaching me how to use that bloody erg and for always being there to help when I had questions about the geology in the NT. And for educating me about what it’s like to live with cancer. I miss you terribly. See you on the other side.

Belinda was a wonderful colleague and collaborator in the complex world of hyperspectral geology. It has been a pleasure and honour to work with her. She will be greatly missed in our small, specialized scientific community.

Thankyou for your incredible service and all you gave to us at Breast Cancer Network Australia. We will forever be grateful to you for what we have achieved to bring awareness to those diagnosed and living with Metastatic Breast Cancer. Vicki Durston BCNA

Such sad news but so many wonderful memories together of high school and the following years. Yes that yellow mini! Very special to spend our 21sts together - in fine Northam style in a front yard with a keg and some eskies! Rest peacefully Belinda. Heart felt sympathies to Belinda's family and loved ones.

You were a great friend who always put 100% in anything you tried including surfboat rowing and German to name just a few.

You always there to help out and tell it how it is when I needed it.

I will miss our conversations covering anything from world affairs to philosophy to the mysteries of the universe.

I am going to miss you greatly but I know you will always be around particularly when I’m out on the surfboat.

Goodbye

What a wonderful person she was and her enthusiasm and spirit will remain with us. I’m so lucky to have known her and she was a breath of fresh air in Darwin, someone I could talk the truth with (and some lies!). Rip Belinda smith

Belinda was an excellent spectral geologist, always finding unexpected minerals, she was a great source of knowledge and friendship from the start of her spectral journey back in 2010 when I first met her. I have cherished her enthusiasm, ideas and camaraderie (and a few adventures around Sydney) for many years and I will dearly miss her smile and our chats and I know that in many ways she will continue to inspire me.

Belinda Smith Tribute 9 Image by Georgina Gordon

Dear Josh, Karina

We are so deeply sorry for the loss of your beautiful mum, Belinda.
Please know we’re thinking of you and sending all our love during this incredibly difficult time.

All our love,
Grace, Paul, Kath, Noah, Poppy and Sebastian

Forever in my thoughts

You always wore that smile,
Slightly wry,
And a little doubtful
When the conversation swerved -
As it always did.
It matched your eyes -
Bright and thoughtful.

Oh did you have thoughts.
Great big geological thoughts.
They sat comfortable
With your eyes and smile.

My guts rolled over when I heard
That C was stalking you.
Your voice still strong on the phone,
Tired, too tired to catch up.
And the day, that day, just a few ago,
When the news came -
And the world got a bit darker
And that smile is now just thoughts.

Belinda was always a fantastic person to talk to on so many subjects. From geoscience, to sports and spectra. Her passion was contagious and it always rubbed off on me after spending those too brief sessions at NVCL workshops (photo from Sydney 2016).

Belinda Smith Tribute 12 Image by Ian Lau

Belinda, a superstar human.. thoughtful, encouraging and charismatic.

Over the past five years.. we’ve laughed, we’ve cried & we’ve lived. We’ve had so many adventures together. Moments I will treasure forever.

I’m so grateful to have been your friend. My heart hurts but with this grief I acknowledge you were ready, it was your time.

You encouraged me, challenged me, you made me a better person.

I’m so grateful for you, and our precious time together.

My thoughts are with Josh, Karina, Brenda and the family.

Through NVCL, I met Belinda and learned of her contributions to our hyperspectral community. She contributed so much to our field and is always spoken about with genuine respect and warmth.
Her work and generosity of spirit have left a real mark, and she will be deeply missed. My heartfelt condolences to her friends, family, and colleagues.

Belinda, may you rest in peace. You will be deeply missed at NT Geological Survey. Your warm smile and calming presence will always be remembered and cherished.

My condolences to Josh and family. Most certainly a pioneer for the HyLogger project and interpreting the squiggly line it produced.

Cheeky smile and an infectious laugh. Belinda has a special place in my memories of Darwin. Always up for an adventure and always telling you "that is an amazing type of xxxx rock formation".
A true brave hearted person that will be sadly missed.

Belinda was one of the very first few people I met on my very first day in the Northern Territory Geological Survey way back in 2017. I found her to be a dedicated geoscientist working on the Hylogger data and publishing reports. Though I talked to her only a few times, I always considered her as a person of highest esteem and reputation. May her soul rest in peace! May God bless her family.

Very sad to hear of Belinda’s passing. Gone way too soon. A very courageous and inspiring lady. Condolences to Josh and family. RIP Belinda ❤️ Fond memories from surf club and chats at the beach.

I met Belinda when I joined NTGS in 2014. I was her editor on her many HyLogger reports and other publications. She was excellent to work with and became a good friend. We were neighbours as well - I would ring my bike bell when passing her place on the way to work - she would yell out a ‘good morning’ from the balcony. We miss her dearly. Here is a photo of her as a Viking Princess.

Belinda Smith Tribute 20 Image by Greg MacDonald

I was so saddened to hear about Belinda’s passing. We worked together years ago, and she was such a radiant presence in the office—her intelligence was inspiring, and her sense of fun made even the busiest days better.

Even though we only saw each other every year or two recently, I always looked forward to our catch-ups and our conversations. She had a rare gift for making the world a smilier, kinder place, and she will be deeply missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Belinda Smith Tribute 21 Image by Fiona Park

This is a sad day. Many condolences to Belinda's family. We met and worked together on HyLogger for many years - a founding member of the spectral geology family. She will be remembered for her enthusiasm and committment to a brand new field in geology.

Posted from FB
Condolences to Belinda’s family. Belinda was a classmate at NSHS . Always a bright, intelligent woman - such an inspiration these last five years . 💖

Our very sincere condolences to you Karina and Josh on the death off your stepmother and mother. We are thinking of you at this time and sending all our love. She was a very special lady and we will be there in spirt on the 20th. ❤️❤️

Posted from FB
Condolences to Belinda’s family . Belinda was a classmate at NSHS . Always a bright, intelligent woman - such an inspiration these last five years . 💖

Posted from FB
RIP Belinda , thinking of everyone 💕💕

Posted from FB
Thinking of you Josh & Karina, so sad to hear this news, sending you peace and love in this heart breaking time 😢

Posted from FB
Sending my love to you Josh and Karina and all Belinda's family and friends xxx
Sending my love and heartfelt condolences to all ❤️

Posted from FB
Oh Josh your mum was an amazing lady and will be missed by so many people. I'm sorry to hear this news and am thinking of you. Hugs to you.🩷

Posted from FB
I'm so sorry Josh and Karina on the passing of your Mum and 2nd Mum. She made some absolutely beautiful memories with you and I pray they will sustain you through your grief. She will always be with you in spirit watching and guiding you with pride. Much love to you both. ❤️

Posted from FB
So sorry to hear. She was a beautiful lady and an inspiration to us all

Posted from FB
So very sorry to hear about your mum Josh. She was inspirational and I loved spending time with her. Deepest condolences to you and the family.

Posted from FB
Sad news indeed. So many great memories from our uni days. Rest well now our brave and wonderful friend. Sending love to Belinda’s family.

Posted from FB
I’m so sorry to hear this
She was such an inspiration and just kept defeating all the odds for so long
Condolences to you Josh

Posted from FB
So sorry to read this, some wonderful memories from days at Northam Hutt. Condolences to her family 💐❤️

Posted from FB
Dear Josh, Karina (& Mum/Grandma),
my heart is so sad that your beautiful mother (daughter) has passed. She has been so brave and so strong, empowered with the love for her family.
May the light of that love radiate for eternity within you. A gentle, loving thought or memory to bring you back to calm and connection through your grief.
I know you don’t know me well, but please know my door is always open to you should you venture to Bendigo. I’d love to have a cuppa with you and share some good memories about your mother, my friend, and to be there for you if ever you are in need. ❤️🥰✨

Posted from FB
Love you and miss you my awesome friend. Much love to Josh, Karina, Brenda & all lucky enough to have had you in their lives. 'Rock on' always xx 💔

Posted from FB
Sincerely wish I could be there in person next Monday for Belinda’s memorial at the Darwin Surf Club. To be surrounded by her loved ones in a place that brought her so much joy and to be able to pay homage to such a beautiful strong intelligent woman, a loving mother, devoted surf club member and genuine friend. ❤️

Posted from FB
I’m so sorry on your loss. Your mum was such a lovely lady. I have beautiful memories of our younger days. May she rest in peace. Big hugs for you xx

Posted from FB
I am sorry to hear this Josh. I am thinking of you in these sad times. Belinda contributed much to the Surf Club, will be missed.

Posted from FB
So sorry to hear, she battled hard the last few years, taken to early. Our thoughts and love are with you, shw will be sadly missed especially by the Surf club community.
Don't hesitate to reach out if you need any help with anything, we are here for you ❤️

Posted from FB
This is heart breaking. She was such a ray of light. Much love to you Josh. I know she is incredibly proud of you and everything you have achieved. Keep living and she will be with you every step of the way xx

Posted from FB
My goodness this is a terrible shock. Belinda and I became great friends through this cruel treatment journey and I was only thinking to message her this week about our annual Mothers Day Classic. Sending deep comfort to Josh and Karina who she proudly told me so much about. I will miss her so very much ❤️

Posted from FB
I am so sorry to hear this Josh. I met your mum when we both worked in Nevada 1991ish. Through FB we reconnected many years ago. She was a powerhouse. So strong, intelligent, human - a true bright light. My God she could make me laugh. She left a positive impact on so many and I will forever cherish our friendship.

Posted from FB
Such sad news, condolences to all Belinda’s family. Met your Mum through rowing, we shared some laughs and fun times. She was a beautiful and inspirational woman, she encouraged me to take on a new role as a Hydrogeologist through her enthusiasm and passion. There is a little less sunshine without her 💐🌻

Posted from FB
Belinda was an amazing lady, Josh. She was always positive & very determined. We went to schools together with Kerrie House . I remember the yellow mini, with minimal brakes.... Many fun times were had. My deepest condolences to you and your family.

Posted from FB
Your mum had a big heart and loved community. We had fun times in the boat and loved pushing herself training and being healthy .
We are sad for her loss at such a young age. Thinking of you.

Posted from FB
I had the pleasure of spending time with Belinda in the surf boat, a truly inspirational and positive woman ❤️❤️❤️

Posted from FB
Such sad news, Josh. Belinda was such an intelligent and interesting person, full of energy and determination. I remember meeting her at Adamson House Girls Hostel on our first day at boarding, and inviting her to join me and Gemma Modele to walk to school with us. When we went uni she worked, driving her yellow mini and raising hell. Geoff Jodrell and Connie House will remember the trips to Toodyay and the pieces of tape that held that car together. We all went to Nanga when it was being built by her then boyfriend, telling stories of axe murders while Tym Duncanson and Will slept. Stories of crazy adventures in Africa and finally the stop in Darwin. That's when I saw her last, taking a whole day to show me the sights.
I will miss you B.

Posted from FB
Dear Josh & Karina & Grandma our deepest condolences. Belinda was such an inspiring friend, funny and tough, always with something to say. So glad to have known her and shared many happy geological times, and just hung out together over a glass of wine. Dear Belinda, we will remember you.

Posted from FB
I’m so sorry to hear of the loss of your dear Mum. We met in our Uni days while doing Geology together and again on the exploration field many years later near Darwin. She was a lovely kind-hearted lady full of spirit and was incredibly strong. She spoke so lovingly of you Josh and was a very special friend 💓

Posted from FB
I'm so sorry for your loss Josh
I think your mum was amazing her energy was contagious and she had a heart bigger than ever
Agian my deepest heart felt condolences
Fought till the very end RIP Angel

Posted from FB
Dear Josh, my heart felt love to you & Karina. I met your Mum before you were born on an exploration field out of Katherine. A friendship was created - two geo girls working together at different gold sites along the highway & enjoying catch ups in Darwin. The joy in her eyes when she spoke of you. She was a lady of determination & poise through life & it's challenges. Most of all she loved life & what it offered. ❤️

Posted from FB
I loved spending time with your mum when I lived in Darwin. I'll never forget what a rubbish surf boat rower I was, but she was so motivating and full of tips. I learned a lot from her (and Wayno Wayne Mc Mahon) and will be forever grateful to have had the chance to get to know her. I am so sorry for your loss. Your mum was inspirational.

Posted from FB
My old English Lit buddy from high school and the crazy mini driver of our post school days. So glad to have caught up with you in Darwin. Such a smart, chirpy , and warm friend . Thinking of You Josh . Your mum was so proud of you . Xx
Rest peacefully Ms Smith 💕

Posted from FB
So so sad to hear this. Belinda was a gift to the world - we met in the 1980’s at University. Love and prayers to her family 🙏😢

Posted from FB
RIP, beautiful lady. It might be a cheesy line, but you inspired many, and your work to support others with Metastatic cancer was spot on every time. Take Care Josh and Karina.

Posted from FB
Oh gosh, what a shock.
Like Candice, Belinda became a close friend through our cancer journey. The three of us shared everything, the nausea and pain from chemo, the excitement of those first little hairs growing back, and all the bits in between.
It’s hard to put into words how much that bond meant. She was such a special person, and I feel so lucky to have had her in my life.
My heart is with her family and everyone who loved her. She’ll be deeply missed ❤️

Posted from FB
This is such sad news … I send my sincere condolences.
Belinda was such a loveable fellow nerd, happy to banter infrared spectra 🏳️‍🌈, happy to collaborate, argue and joke. She made science fun.
We’ve lost a wonderfully beautiful, joyful, witty and strong woman and we’ll miss her dearly.🎀

Posted from FB
So very sad - Belinda was an amazingly strong determined advocate for those with metastatic bc not just here in her home town but across the country via the various bc groups she belonged to.
Many condolences to the family.
She will be sadly missed.

Posted from FB
Sincerest condolences to all the family. Remember Belinda and her wonderful personality in the 1980’s Uni days in Perth.

Posted from FB
Oh Bil, We had a lot of fun times throughout our youth - exploring , listening to music and having lots of laughs and running a muck . You were there the night I met my hubby of now 32 years. We were distanced for many years due to me treating you badly . Luckily we reconnected a few years ago and had several chats and I was able to say how sorry I was .
My thoughts are with you Josh , your Mum was one special woman , whose star will forever shine brightly .

Posted from FB
I'm so sorry to hear this...remembering good times at UWA back in '89

Posted from FB
Oh my goodness, I'm deeply saddened by this. Had the pleasure of connecting with Belinda Smith many times after the passing of my Wife Rachel Pickett in 2024. I admired her strength in character and determination to do what she wanted to do despite her challenges. My deepest condolences to all of you during this difficult time 😘

Posted from FB
Omg 😦 my heart goes to her family! Belinda was one of the first I met after I was going through it all. She was such a good support and friend, I'm glad I was blessed to meet her x

Posted from FB
sorry to hear josh, she was a wonderful lady and an inspiration to all

Posted from FB
Condolences to the family, love and respect 🙏🏽❤️🙏🏽❤️🙏🏽

Posted from FB
I’m so sorry. I will light a candle for her and remember our school days and uni days with great warmth.

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