Mining Your Business 2023 issue 2

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MINING 2023 your business Issue 2

E-NEWSLETTER | A NORTH OF 60 COMPANION publication

miningnorthof60.com

The global push for green steel has begun in Nunavut Uncovering Yukon’s newest copper-gold district Sensor-based sorting technologies take the guesswork out of ore processing


MINING your business

IN THIS ISSUE

Message from the editor, Shayna Wiwierski – 3

DEL Communications Inc. www.delcommunications.com

Aston Bay: Partnering for discovery in Nunavut – 4

President & CEO David Langstaff

Setting the standard: The global push for green steel has begun in Canada’s Arctic territory of Nunavut – 5

Managing Editor Shayna Wiwierski shayna@delcommunications.com

Uncovering Yukon’s newest copper-gold district – 8 Gold Terra drilling the underexplored Campbell Shear Target for new gold discoveries in one of Canada’s richest historic mining camps – 10 Metallic Minerals returns to its Yukon roots – 12 Sixty North Gold Mining Ltd. to diamond drill its wholly-owned precious metals-rich VMS targets in Yellowknife – 14 Canada’s mining sector commits to world-leading EDI standards – 16 Membership matters: Unlocking opportunities while working in the North – 18 Sensor-based sorting technologies take the guesswork out of ore processing – 20 World Mining Congress raises awareness of gender inequity from the mine face to the main stage – 22 Bulkley Valley’s one-stop shop – 24 Bring it to the surface with the CDDA– 26

Director of Online Marketing MIC PATERSON mic@delcommunications.com Advertising Manager dayna oulion Sales Representatives brent astrope | brian gerow Cover Photo Provided by Baffinland Iron Mines Contributing Writers Peter Akman | Vince McCormick Jocelyn Peltier-Huntley © 2023 DEL Communications Inc. All rights reserved. Contents may not be reproduced­by any means, in whole or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher­. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in and the reliability of the source, the publisher in no way guarantees nor warrants the information­and is not responsible for errors, omissions or statements­made by advertisers. Opinions and recommendations­made by contributors or advertisers are not necessarily those of the publisher­, its directors, officers or employees.

DEL Communications Inc. and miningnorthof60.com are extremely grateful to our advertisers for their support in this publication. Click here to download the media kit. Bulkley Valley Wholesale....................................................................25

NAPEG....................................................................................................... 9

Gold Terra Resource Corp................................................................... 11

Northbest Distributors Ltd..................................................................13

Golden Pursuit Resources Ltd...........................................................13

NWT Apprenticeship............................................................................15

GroundTruth Exploration....................................................................... 9

Osisko Metals........................................................................................23

Major Drilling......................................................................................... 17

2


message from the editor

shayna Wiwierski Welcome to the latest edition of Mining Your Business, your

about this exciting publication to your colleagues and friends.

trusted source for in-depth insights into mining activity

Also, if you haven’t signed up already, we invite you to share

in Canada’s remarkable northern territories. As we delve

this and to sign up for our newsletter at miningnorthof60.

into the latest developments and trends, it’s clear that the

com/mining-your-business/.

northern regions continue to be a dynamic and vital part of Canada’s mining landscape. In this issue, we shine a spotlight on the resilience and innovation that have become synonymous with the mining industry in the North. From the vast expanses of the Yukon

We also wish to thank all the companies who have contributed a story for Issue 2, 2023 of Mining Your Business. Special thanks go out to the following contributors: • Aston Bay

to the rich mineral deposits of Nunavut, Canada’s northern

• Baffinland Iron Mines

territories are home to some of the most promising mining

• Bulkley Valley Wholesale

projects in the world. In this issue, we take a look at a variety of different projects happening in Canada’s North. On page 5, Baffinland talks about the global push for green steel in Nunavut. The

• Cascadia Minerals Ltd. • Gold Terra • Metallic Minerals

territory’s high-grade iron ore, which is mined by Baffinland

• The Mining Association of Canada

on the northern edge of Baffin Island, is among the richest

• Sixty North Gold Mining Ltd.

iron ore deposits ever discovered. The company’s iron ore

• The Saskatchewan Research Council

has a much smaller footprint compared to iron ore extracted in other countries such as Australia and Brazil thanks to the fact that no concentrating or processing is needed. It’s also crushed and screened at site and then shipped directly to markets.

• Women in Mining and Women in Nuclear Saskatchewan We invite all interested companies to share their news and editorial ideas with us. If you would like to contribute a story for future issues of Mining Your Business e-newsletter, please

Meanwhile over in the Northwest Territories, Sixty North

contact myself at shayna@delcommunications.com.

Gold Mining Ltd. has been developing its 100 per cent owned

We also invite you to keep an eye out for the upcoming

Mon Gold Property, which is located in the Yellowknife Gold Camp. This high-grade past producer averaged an estimated 30 gpt gold and produced an estimated 15,000 ounces of gold from a folded quartz vein for the first 15 metres of elevation. As the northern mining industry continues to evolve and adapt to new realities, our commitment to providing you with timely, accurate, and comprehensive information remains unwavering. We believe that informed stakeholders are essential for the sustainable development of this crucial

North of 60 magazine, which will be released in early 2024. You can read all the previous issues, plus past issues of this e-newsletter, via our official site, miningnorthof60.com. Before I sign off, I also want to acknowledge that our hearts and thoughts are with those affected by the summer wildfires in the Northwest Territories. The fires have had a profound effect on the region, not only to the environment, but to the communities that call the North home.

sector.

We hope you enjoy this issue.

I hope you enjoy Issue 2, 2023 of Mining Your Business

Shayna Wiwierski

e-newsletter and we hope you will help us spread the message

shayna@delcommunications.com 3


Aston Bay: Partnering for discovery in Nunavut Aston Bay (TSX.V: BAY, OTCQB: ATBHF) is an exploration company focused on discovering high-grade copper and gold

Figure 1 - Reverse circulation drilling underway at the Storm Copper Project in Somerset Island, Nunavut.

in North America. Aston Bay makes the discoveries that the mining industry takes to the next stage. Aston Bay is exploring in two very different geographical regions, Nunavut in Canada and the state of Virginia in the USA, and has made exciting new discoveries in both areas. At the Storm Copper Project in Nunavut, Aston Bay has partnered with ASX-listed American West Metals (ASX: AW1) and are using reverse circulation (RC) drilling to delineate high-grade near-surface copper resources to support potential development of a low impact, small-footprint “ore-sorting” type of mining operation. A significant exploration program incorporating 10,000 metres of RC drilling conducted by Northspan Explorations has just been completed this spring/ summer. While assay results are pending at time of publication, previous intersections demonstrate the extensive and high-

The copper is there.”

grade nature of the mineralization, such as 41-metre length

These are exciting days for the Storm project, with additional

of core running 4.18 per cent copper from a 38-metre depth

geophysics and deep drilling planned for next season.

from the 2022 drill campaign. A maiden ore resource report is anticipated for this year, as well as beneficiation studies on the mineralization and a scoping study for the development plans.

Working in the Arctic has its challenges, but Aston Bay and American West have been fortunate to work with very capable contractors such as Discovery Mining Services out of

In addition to this ongoing development work at Storm, Aston

Yellowknife, Kenn Borek Air in Resolute, Custom Helicopters,

Bay has for years predicted that the near-surface mineralization

Atco, and Apex Geosciences. As well, the assistance of the

may be an indication of a potentially significant amount of

people from the Hamlet of Resolute Bay and Qikiqtani Region

copper hidden in the rocks at depth. This geologic model

is greatly appreciated. Partnership gets the work done in these

is the same as that of the very large and high-grade copper

challenging environments; it does not get done alone.

deposits of Central Africa. Gravity geophysics conducted by initial exploration this spring yielded high-quality drilling targets that corresponded well to the geological model. Deep diamond drilling by Top Rank Drilling this summer confirmed the presence of the predicted copper mineralization at depth in widely spaced drill holes, amplifying the prospects of discovering a significant, region-scale copper system.

In Virginia, the company has made two recent discoveries: a high-grade gold vein and SEDEX-style SEDEX zinccopper-cobalt mineralization. The high-grade gold (e.g., 24.73 g/t Au over 3.57-metre core length) vein is unusual for Virginia, more typical of a “Kirkland Lake” style quartz vein, with mineralization remaining open at depth and along over 1.6-kilometre strike length. The discovery of cobalt

Aston Bay CEO Thomas Ullrich says the discovery has been

mineralization is also new and unusual for Virginia, providing

some time in the making.

the potential for a significant energy metals discovery in the

“We’ve known about copper at the surface at Storm since the

4

of copper hidden in the subsurface – this discovery proves it.

USA.

early drilling conducted by Cominco and Teck in the late ‘90s,”

For more information, please visit the Aston Bay website at

says Ullrich. “Our geological model has predicted the presence

www.astonbayholdings.com. 7


Setting the standard: The global push for green steel has begun in Canada’s Arctic territory of Nunavut

By Peter Akman, Head of Stakeholder Relations & Communications, Baffinland Iron Mines Nunavut’s high-grade iron ore, mined by Baffinland on the northern edge of Baffin Island in Canada’s Arctic, is among the richest iron ore deposits ever discovered.

“critical” by the Government of Canada and many other nations. Topping the list are lithium, copper, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements. To be clear, there is no green energy transition without these critical minerals: no batteries, no electric cars, and no solar panels.

Read any publication that touches on electric vehicles, the environment, mining, or business in general, and the

Baffinland on the northern edge of Baffin Island in Canada’s Arctic, is among the richest iron ore deposits ever discovered. as the highest-grade direct shipping iron

needed in every technology type in the

ore in the world.

transition to the low-carbon economy. Iron ore is the fundamental ingredient in thermal, hydro, nuclear, to wind power

deemed the “building blocks for the

and electric vehicles, steel remains the

future of our green and digital economy”.

essential building block.

Some 31 minerals have been deemed

Nunavut’s high-grade iron ore, mined by

building block for the only material

top priority. Critical minerals have been

transition to a net-zero world.

comes in. It isn’t an overstatement to say

The product is beginning to be heralded

the steelmaking process and from geo-

on opportunities to participate in the

This is where Baffinland Iron Mines

But missing from that list, so far, is the

global push for critical minerals is the

Investors are more focused than ever

from the International Energy Agency.

While Baffinland has been limited to only six-million tonnes a year – a boutique operation compared to those companies extracting 250 to 350 million tonnes in Australia and Brazil – Nunavut highgrade iron ore has superior chemistry,

The problem, up until now, is that the

combined with first-rate metallurgical

creation of steel has accounted for seven

properties. This operation is different

per cent of the entire energy sector’s CO2

than most others in that no concentrating

emissions, according to a 2020 report

or processing is needed, and therefore no 5


Recently, several leading steel manufacturers have partnered with Baffinland to accelerate the research and development of high-quality feedstock for green steel production, with the use of Nunavut’s high-grade iron ore.

wet tailings are produced. The iron ore

ores become even more relevant when

is crushed and screened at site, and then

newer technologies like the direct reduced

shipped directly to markets.

iron (DRI) are targeted as the centrepiece

What that means is, from the first point of extraction, Baffinland’s products already have much smaller environmental footprints. Add to that, the iron ore has been deemed “high

sources like hydrogen. DRI modules exclusively use higher grade ores, making the use of Baffinland’s products a highvalue proposition.

grade” because it typically contains

Recently, several leading steel

nearly 68 per cent iron, compared to <62

manufacturers have partnered with

per cent for globally traded iron ores.

Baffinland to accelerate the research and

The steelmaking process is energy intensive as the traditional and most common route involves blast furnaces which consume fossil fuels as either burden material (e.g. coke breeze) or as external heat input making them carbonintensive. Use of high-grade ores allows a less carbon-intensive upgrading process as lower percentage of impurities in the iron ores means less energy is needed. The value and importance of high-grade 6

of the strategy to use cleaner energy

development of high-quality feedstock for green steel production, with the use of Nunavut’s high-grade iron ore.

Steelmaking transformation program. The aim is to achieve virtually carbonfree production by 2033. In the context of the MoU, Baffinland and Salzgitter Flachstahl GmbH will consider which supply strategies, regarding using iron ore produced by Baffinland, are best suited to hydrogen-based steel production in a direct reduction plant. In addition, the companies will work together on optimizing the Scope 3 emissions of their shared value chains. In July, thyssenkrupp Steel Europe AG also signed an MoU with Baffinland.

German steel maker Salzgitter Flachstahl

As part of its tkH2Steel® project,

GmbH – a subsidiary of Salzgitter AG

thyssenkrupp’s coal-based blast furnaces

– has entered into a Memorandum of

will be replaced by hydrogen-based direct

Understanding (MoU) with Baffinland.

reduction modules. The steel produced

Starting in 2025, the Salzgitter Group will

by this equipment, which is directly

begin incrementally switching its steel

reduced by hydrogen, will be liquefied

production to hydrogen-based processes

in downstream, specially developed

under its SALCOS® - Salzgitter Low CO2

melting units to produce high-quality hot


While contributing to the global push for green steel is a priority as a final product, Baffinland has also been actively working to decrease its impact on its immediate environment.

metal, in what thyssenkrupp maintains is a pioneering process. All subsequent production steps can take place in the existing plant structure, including the steel mills, allowing all of the company’s products to be produced with low CO2 emissions, while maintaining thyssenkrupp’s stringent quality standards. As a result, thyssenkrupp

of Canada’s Arctic has been our priority. Baffinland has voluntarily implemented industry-leading measures, including staying in a narrow northern shipping route, travelling in convoys when possible

south to Steensby, a new deep-water port, a fully enclosed crushing and screening facility, as well as an upgraded materialshandling infrastructure, including a shiploading system with a capacity of 16,000

to reduce total underwater sound, and

tonnes per hour.

restricting our ships to a maximum speed

Baffinland is also assessing several

of only nine knots.

initiatives, including the introduction of

reiterates that tkH2Steel is a highly

Now, Baffinland is encouraging all

wind turbines, switching to renewable

efficient and commendable approach

vessels using Arctic waterways, including

diesel, and use of light rail system for

towards achieving environmentally

cruise ships and pleasure craft, to follow

downhill transportation of run-of-mine

friendly steel production.

these mitigation measures where safely

material which will have the capability of

possible.

regenerating power.

push for green steel is a priority as a

Beyond shipping, important measures to

final product, Baffinland has also been

protect the region are also a focal point as

From start to finish of the mining cycle,

actively working to decrease its impact

Baffinland prepares to increase the supply

on its immediate environment. Years

of its high-grade iron ore. Working from

of consultations with Inuit hunters,

a resource base of over one billion tonnes,

elders, and communities have guided our

the expansion to Steensby Inlet will be

adaptive marine and terrestrial mitigation

Baffinland’s next step. This expansion

measures. Protecting the land and waters

will see the development of a new rail line

And while contributing to the global

Baffinland is committed to supporting and protecting the environment, surrounding communities, traditional Inuit hunting grounds, and the global push for green steel. All of this is possible. Qujannamiik. 7 7


Left: Cascadia Minerals’ Catch property in the Yukon is a new grassroots copper-gold porphyry discovery, found in 2020 by a local prospector. Right: Catch is thought to be an alkalic porphyry, similar to Red Chris in B.C., or the Cadia deposit in Australia.

Uncovering Yukon’s newest copper-gold district A brand-new company is looking to make a major drill discovery in Yukon this summer. Cascadia Minerals Ltd. (TSXV: CAM) is a newly launched junior mining company focused on exploring for copper and gold in Yukon and British Columbia. The company was a spin-out resulting from Hecla Mining Company’s acquisition of ATAC Resources Ltd. in July 2023.

in the Stikine Terrane in Yukon. Cascadia thinks the success of discoveries south of the border can be replicated further north, and has embarked on a maiden diamond drill program at Catch this fall. The drill started turning at the project on August 10, with 2,500 metres of diamond drilling planned, and the opportunity to extend if results warrant.

Cascadia was listed and trading on the TSX Venture exchange only two weeks after the deal closed, and wasted none of the Yukon’s short summer season, with exploration already underway at their flagship Catch Property in central Yukon. Catch is a new grassroots copper-gold porphyry discovery, found in 2020 by a local prospector. It’s located in a northern extension of the Stikine Terrane – a prolific belt of rocks which hosts the Golden Triangle in British Columbia, including numerous copper-gold-molybdenum porphyries such as Red Chris, Schaft Creek, Kemess, KSM, and Galore Creek.

“We’ve been incredibly impressed by the extent of mineralization we’re observing at surface,” said Graham Downs, Cascadia’s president and CEO. “I’ve been working in exploration in Yukon for over 25 years and I’ve never seen this much copper at surface. We now have two broad zones of surface mineralization delineated along a two-kilometre trend, both of which will be diamond drill tested for the first time this year.”

Despite the numerous discoveries and operating mines across the border in B.C., minimal exploration has been conducted 8

Downs has reason to be excited. In July the company announced the results of additional prospecting, mapping, and geophysical work. A new showing returned grab sample results including 3.88 per cent copper with 30.0 g/t gold from outcrop. Results from induced polarization

geophysical surveys also showed broad zones of high chargeability extending to depth underneath the areas with grade at surface. “The signatures we’re seeing are exactly what you’d want for this deposit model,” said Downs. Catch is thought to be an alkalic porphyry, similar to Red Chris in B.C., or the Cadia deposit in Australia. “Alkalic porphyries are often smaller with higher grades, and typically occur in clusters or strings. We see an opportunity to not only advance the Catch project itself, but to be first movers in a potential new porphyry district.” In addition to the Catch property, Cascadia also has the Rosy, Sands of Time, and Idaho Creek projects in Yukon, and the PIL Property in the heart of B.C.’s Toodoggone region. The company has exploration underway at several of these other projects as well, and looks forward to releasing results of work later this fall, once assays are received. For more information on Cascadia, please visit their website at www.cascadiaminerals.com. 7


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Gold Terra drilling the underexplored Campbell Shear Target for new gold discoveries in one of Canada’s richest historic mining camps

Gold Terra has had great success in discovering more gold on their large over 900-square-kilometre land package comprised of the Yellowknife Project and the Con Mine Option Property.

Canada is home to many rich gold camps that have generated wealth and created employment opportunities through the production of large quantities of the unique yellow metal. The Yellowknife mining district in the Northwest Territories is one of Canada’s richest historic mining camps creating wealth for the community over a span of 65 years from the production of 14 million ounces at grades between 16 to 22 grams/tonne from three mines. Today, high gold prices, new geologic concepts, and technology have propelled renewed momentum to find additional gold in this historic district. Currently the company’s focus is on a deep drilling program at the Con Mine Option Property.

Gold Terra has had great success in discovering more gold on their large over 900-square-kilometre land package comprised of the Yellowknife Project and the Con Mine Option Property. With no exploration in approximately the last 20 years, the Yellowknife camp is open for new discoveries along a 70-kilometre strike length of the prolific Campbell Shear. Gold Terra is aiming to unlock the great potential of this rich Yellowknife camp. Over the last several years, the company has outlined and discovered approximately 1.8 million ounces. Gold Terra’s strategy in 2023 is to find more gold on its district-sized land position along the prolific Campbell Shear structure. That strategy includes additional drilling south of the Con Mine to expand their initial 2022 mineral resource estimate of 109,000 gold ounces in the indicated category and 432,000 gold ounces in the inferred category. It also includes the deep drilling target under the current the Con Mine workings on the Con Mine Option Property; and, continued assessment of additional targets in the northern belt of their large land holdings which has a 2021 mineral resource estimate of 1.2 Moz. in the inferred category on four deposits north of Yellowknife. Currently the company’s focus is on a deep drilling program at the Con Mine Option Property. The former Con Mine, a world-class gold deposit, contributed greatly to the wealth of the region as 6.1 Moz. of high-grade gold were recovered from

10


Gold Terra’s strategy in 2023 is to find more gold on its district-sized land position along the prolific Campbell Shear structure in the NWT.

With a continued large drilling program and positive drill results, Gold Terra is on track to re-establish Yellowknife as one of the premier gold mining districts in Canada. Gold Terra offers a rare opportunity to invest in a world-class high-grade discovery on the doorstep of Canada’s most prolific past gold production. For more information and company news, please go to our website at www.goldterracorp.com/. 7

the underground operations between 1938 to 2003 from both the Con and Campbell Shears. The Campbell Shear is the major ore-bearing structure of the Con mine, yielding most of the gold production. Gold mined from the Con Mine had very high-grade zones ranging between 15 to 20 grams per tonne and highgrade “jewelry pockets” where nuggets of gold with values such as 534 grams per tonne over 19.3 metres have been recorded. The company optioned the Con Mine Option Property from Newmont in November 2021. Gold Terra is exploring the Con Mine Option Property with a deep drilling program to a depth of about 2,300 metres below surface under the former Con Mine workings as high-grade zones may carry on further than what was mined. With access to an extensive geological and historic assay database, Gold Terra has done detailed modeling of the Con Mine gold deposit to understand the orientation, target size, shape, and plunge of high-grade zones that were not tested below the current mine workings. To see an interactive VRIFY 3D model highlighting the deep drilling target area, please visit https://vrify.com/decks/13133.

GOLD TERRA RESOURCE CORP. TSX-V: YGT; FRANKFURT: TXO; OTC QX: YGTFF

Multi-million ounce potential in Yellowknife Gold Belt. Drilling to delineate gold underway with objective to expand current mineral resource estimate on Con Mine Option Property.

www.goldterracorp.com 11


Metallic Minerals returns to its Yukon roots

Metallic Minerals has secured the second-largest land position in the Keno district, behind silver major Hecla Mining which operates the Keno Hill project and mill.

In May 2023, Metallic Minerals (TSX.V:MMG) announced a

an official starter mineral inventory for Keno Silver in the

9.5 per cent strategic investment by Newcrest Mining, which

form of a NI 43-101 mineral resource estimate and it recently

is funding the ongoing drill campaign at the company’s La

completed a modest exploration and drill program at the

Plata Cu-Ag-Au-PGE project in Colorado. With that resource

Formo target adjacent to the Silver Trail highway. Assay results

expansion program progressing, Metallic Minerals has once

from the 2023 program are expected later in the year and into

again turned its attention to its roots – the Keno Hill silver

2024 and will go toward expanding that initial resource. After

district in central Yukon. Since its founding in 2016, through a combination of property deals and staking, Metallic Minerals has secured the secondlargest land position in the Keno district, behind silver major Hecla Mining which operates the Keno Hill project and mill.

its holdings – a new style not previously associated with Keno Hill – the company has focused on advanced targets, including Formo and Caribou, which are more traditional high-grade vein systems but shallow or starting at surface and potentially

In an August news release, Hecla noted it had “restarted the

amenable to bulk mining methods.

mill at Keno Hill, producing 184,264 ounces of silver, with full

Given the continuity of geology across the Keno district, it is

production expected by year-end” and that “silver production is expected to exceed 2.5 million ounces in 2023”. Once again, Metallic Minerals finds itself directly adjacent to a producing mine, and this time one with decidedly deep pockets based on its acquisitions of both Keno (from Alexco) and Rackla (from ATAC), both in Yukon. Metallic Minerals’ stated intention for H2 2023 is to publish 12

defining bulk tonnage mineralization on the eastern portion of

instructive to look at the history of the development to gauge a potential trajectory for Metallic Minerals. Alexco initially published very modest resources and, over the ensuing years, added millions of ounces each year culminating in the 100+ million inventory present today. Metallic Minerals may look to get on the board with its initial resource estimate and, as they have stated in the past, vector along defined structures to


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E: northbest@theedge.ca Golden Pursuit Resources Ltd. is actively exploring in the Gordon Lake area of the Northwest Territories. Metallic Minerals is also one of the largest holders of alluvial gold claims in the Yukon and has established a production royalty business by partnering with experienced mining operators.

expand size and increase grade – an effective strategy for its former neighbour.

The Gordon Lake area is an historic gold mining area that saw numerous small mines and exploration projects developed between the 1930s and the 1980s. Golden Pursuit has consolidated all these projects for the first time and is applying modern methods to this historic district.

With drilling continuing at its La Plata project – which already hosts over 1.2 billion pounds of copper and 17 million ounces of silver – and substantive news flow expected from Keno Hill, this autumn is shaping up as a busy one for Metallic Minerals. But that’s not all. Metallic Minerals is also one of the largest holders of alluvial gold claims in the Yukon and has established a production royalty business by partnering with experienced mining operators. Parker Schnabel from the hit television show Gold Rush on the Discovery Channel signed a deal with the company to mine its Australia Creek claims in exchange for a 12 to 15 per cent production royalty. Gold Rush, the most popular show on Discovery, aired its season 14 premiere on September 29th. With a weekly audience in the millions, the show could bring important new eyes to the Metallic Minerals story. 7

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROB CAMPBELL

604-730-6982

www.goldpursuit.ca

info@goldpursuit.ca

13


Sixty North Gold Mining Ltd. to diamond drill its wholly-owned precious metals-rich VMS targets in Yellowknife Figure 1. Isometric image of the four principal VMS targets looking north showing conductivity blocks on base map by Jackson V., (1998).

Sixty North Gold Mining Ltd. (CSE: SXTY, FKT: 2F4, OTC-

zinc over 0.45 metres. Four from VTEMTM plus (Versatile Time

Pink: SXNTF) has been developing its 100 per cent owned

Domain Electromagnetic) targets have been modeled by Mira

Mon Gold Property within the rich Yellowknife Gold Camp,

Geosciences with the most promising three being:

Northwest Territories. This high-grade past producer averaged an estimated 30 gpt gold and produced an estimated 15,000 ounces of gold from a folded quartz vein for the first 15 metres of elevation. Diamond drilling has shown the gold-bearing quartz vein to extend to a minimum of 60 metres below surface and development has advanced to 32 metres below surface, targeting the area underneath the old stopes. The company sees many similarities with the A-Zone on the Mon Gold Property to the Discovery Gold Mine north of us that produced one-

metres thick, topping 80 metres below surface with a sequence of abundant quartz porphyry lavas, crystal and crystal-lithic tuffs, and hypabyssal intrusions. A subtle magnetic anomaly is associated with this target. •W est Target is a strong conductor without any associated magnetic anomaly, 200 metres long and up to 30 metres thick, located lower in the sequence within a mixed pelitic and felsic,

million ounces of gold from one-million tons of ore to a depth

and intermediate volcanic rocks.

of 1,200 metres. Several additional exploration targets occur

• S outh Target is a very strong conductor 175 metres long with

on the Mon Gold property and we will be focusing on one of its exceptional exploration targets in the short term. The Nelson Lake Volcanogenic Massive Sulphide (VMS) zone consists of eight geophysical targets within favourable intermediate to felsic volcanic flows and tuffs, and affiliated epiclastic rocks. One target has disseminated, semi-massive,

14

•E ast Target is a strong conductor 250 metres long and up to 24

a very strongly conductive segment 60 metres long and up to 30 metres thick with a local magnetic anomaly associated with the unit. It is hosted within a sequence of mixed pelitic and felsic, and intermediate volcanic rocks at the contact with an underlying sequence of quartz porphyry lavas, crystal, and crystal-lithic tuffs.

and massive sulphides exposed in trenches over 120 metres of

Drill permits are in place and work can commence once the

strike and up to one metre in width. This target grades up to

current wildfire conditions improve and evacuation orders are

203 gpt silver, 1.0 gpt gold, 0.59 per cent lead, and 0.96 per cent

lifted. 7


VTEM Plus SFz44 EM map of the VMS target zone on Jackson, V. (1998) basemap

North Target Outc ropp S VM ing

South Target

East Target Mineral Claims

Scan the code to learn more:

Mon Leases Faults WaterBody

Thinking about a career in the trades? Here are some of the reasons you should: Great pay Earn money while you learn your trade Increase your chances at future employment – there is a national shortage of qualified tradespeople Many career options (54 designated trades in the NWT) Supports available during your apprenticeship

West Target

Contour

Principal VMS targets looking north showing conductivity blocks on base map by Jackson V., (1998).

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Let’s launch your site together. mic@delcommunications.com www.hosting.delcommunications.ca 15


Canada’s mining sector commits to world-leading EDI standards New Towards Sustainable Mining Protocols will drive industry performance in workplace culture and respect On June 22, 2023, the Mining

support from our members, are just

a great step forward by introducing

Association of Canada (MAC)

what we need to transform the mining

mandatory protocols on EDI in their

announced the publication of a brand

sector into one that is more inclusive and

TSM program, and I look forward to

new Towards Sustainable Mining

successful.”

seeing the fruits of this change. In an

(TSM) protocol focused on improving performance in the areas of equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI). Released in tandem with a significant update to the TSM Safety and Health Protocol, renamed the TSM Safe, Healthy and Respectful Workplaces Protocol, which introduces a new performance indicator on psychological safety and respectful workplaces, these new ground-breaking additions will bring greater transparency and improved performance to the mining industry and help address

the MAC membership focused on improving environmental and social practices in the mining sector, addresses areas like Indigenous engagement, biodiversity conservation, preventing child and forced labour, safety, and climate change. The development of the new Equitable, Diverse, and Inclusive Workplaces Protocol came as a result of a collaborative effort by experts from within and outside of the mining

longstanding workforce challenges.

industry and numerous stakeholder

“The global mining industry continues

partners and Community of Interest

to be very male-dominated and here in Canada it is also homogeneously white. We need to literally change the face of the mining sector if we are to be able to continue to grow and meet today’s challenges, including producing the products the world needs to decarbonize and develop new technologies. To do this, we also need to ensure those who work in the sector

16

TSM, a mandatory component of

groups, including TSM’s international

industry that is predominantly male, and white, policies like these, and the people that are ready to champion them, are a key part of making equity-seeking communities feel safe at work, while also preparing for the workforce of the future.” The Equitable, Diverse, and Inclusive Workplaces Protocol sets out requirements for mining companies to develop and implement a corporate strategy that is complemented by site-level policies, processes, and performance to drive transparency, catalyze systemic change, and improve

Advisory Panels, who came together

EDI performance in the mining sector.

to ensure the commitments and

“Unifor, as a leading worker’s union,

criteria in the new standards align with societal expectations and will result in meaningful progress in the mining industry. Adopted by MAC in the first instance, MAC is confident other TSM partners around the world will follow suit.

feel safe and supported, including

“To create truly inclusive workplaces,

women, visible minorities, and the

industries must make concrete and

2SLGBTQI+ community,” said Pierre

systemic changes that allow women,

Gratton, president and CEO of MAC,

2SLGBTQI+ people, and racialized

TSM’s founding member. “TSM has a

Canadians to reach their full potential,”

track record of driving performance

said the Honourable Marci Ien, Canada’s

in the mining industry and these new

Minister for Women and Gender

additions, which received unanimous

Equality and Youth. “MAC has taken

believes in having meaningful, respectful, and diverse workplaces, especially in the mining industry. We have been actively participating in the development of protocols for the mining industry in Canada and abroad on EDI within the TSM program of MAC that will further improve the livelihood of all workers,” said Lana Payne, national president of Unifor. “We are confident that these new protocols will ensure that all mining companies are held more accountable and more transparent to all stakeholders.” The new protocol will measure mining


companies’ performance in a number of areas, including by: • Engaging broadly within the workforce to develop a corporate strategy for EDI with a focus on training and internal performance objectives. • Integrating EDI throughout the mine site through new and revised processes and procedures like review of biases or barriers in traditional HR processes and analysis of inequities in worker compensation. • Involving workers in developing approaches to collect relevant data, measure and set performance objectives related to EDI. “Women in Mining (WIM) Central America celebrates the launch of the new TSM protocols, which represents a significant milestone in promoting inclusivity and gender equality in the mining industry. TSM has recently been adopted by several mining associations in Latin America and we are confident that these new standards will do much to foster an environment that promotes equal opportunities and ensures

respond to incidents of psychologically unsafe, harmful, or disrespectful behaviour in the workplace.

To download a copy of the revised TSM

“With Canada’s mining industry facing a tight labour market, attracting diverse sources of talent is no longer a nice to have, it’s a need to have,” said Ryan Montpelleier, executive director of the Mining Industry Human Resources Council (MiHR). “TSM is a proven system that drives industry performance. It’s no secret that the mining sector has struggled to build an inclusive workforce, and the new and revised TSM protocols will drive sector-wide change through industry collaboration and commitment to attract, recruit, and retain diverse talent. Everyone deserves to feel welcome, safe, and valued in the workplace, and implementing the TSM protocols will position companies to meet their talent needs, industry to innovate in the face of complex issues, and contribute to systemic societal change.”

The mining industry is a major sector

To download a copy of the TSM Equitable, Diverse, and Inclusive Workplaces Protocol, visit

actively engaged in mineral exploration,

https://rb.gy/5ieu6

for more information. 7

Safe, Healthy, and Respectful Workplaces Protocol visit https://rb.gy/is8z8

of Canada’s economy, contributing $125 billion to the national GDP and is responsible for 22 per cent of Canada’s total domestic exports. Canada’s mining sector employs 665,000 people directly and indirectly across the country. The industry is proportionally the largest private sector employer of Indigenous peoples in Canada and a major customer of Indigenous-owned businesses. About MAC The Mining Association of Canada is the national organization for the Canadian mining industry. Its members account for most of Canada’s production of base and precious metals, uranium, diamonds, metallurgical coal, mined oil sands, and industrial minerals, and are mining, smelting, refining, and semifabrication. Please visit www.mining.ca

everyone working in our sector feels valued and respected,” said Ana Gabriela Juáres, president and founder of WIM Central America. “These protocols will support the work being done both by our WIM organization and mining companies across Central America and the Caribbean, enabling us to work collectively towards a more equitable and inclusive future.” The updated version of the TSM Safe, Healthy and Respectful Workplaces Protocol includes brand-new standards focused on promoting psychological

Contact our team to ensure your next project is safe, successful, and on time.

safety and respectful behaviour in the workplace through review of existing policies and processes, and trauma-

majorcanada@majordrilling.com 1-204-885-7532

informed processes to report and 17


Membership matters Unlocking opportunities while working in the North By Vince McCormick, Executive Director and Registrar of NAPEG The NAPEG Professional Development Symposium is a rewarding networking opportunity to meet peers working in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.

each year. In 2023, topics included: • Overview of the National Research Council’s work in the North • How to use Indigenous Traditional Knowledge in Design • Cargo Airships versus All-weather Roads: Costs and Benefit

There are many talented engineers and geoscientists working in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. They all share one thing in common: they must have a NAPEG membership. Engineering and geoscience are regulated professions. Whether a professional lives and works north of 60° in these territories, or they live elsewhere but want a northern registration, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists (NAPEG) is responsible for licensing them. This protects the public and upholds the standards of these professions. NAPEG membership also offers many exclusive benefits and opportunities for engineers and geoscientists working in the North. 18

Here are just a few: Professional development for Northerners If you work in the North, you know that there are unique demands, challenges, and opportunities. NAPEG offers a robust Continuing Professional Development Program, which provides each member with a personalized approach to professional development with documentation. The program is flexible, diverse, and designed to provide members with the opportunities they need to advance their own personal career goals. Members are also invited to attend the NAPEG Professional Development Symposium, which is held in the spring

The Professional Development Symposium is also a rewarding networking opportunity to meet peers working in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. Professional services NAPEG offers a variety of professional services to help engineers and geoscientists in their day-to-day work in the North. Digital Signatures Engineers and geoscientists are increasingly using new technologies in their daily work. That’s why, in 2020, NAPEG worked with Notarius to offer a verified digital signature to all members. These digital signatures are exclusively issued by NAPEG for members. They help maintain a high standard of reliability. Don’t have yours yet? Get your digital signature at www.notarius.com/en/ certifio/pro/napeg.


NAPEG membership also offers many exclusive benefits and opportunities for engineers and geoscience working in the North.

NAPEG Stamp Members, licensees, and permit holders receive certificates and stamps from NAPEG to identify their right to independent practice and right to use title. Don’t have a stamp or certificate or need to replace yours? Complete the order form at www.napeg.nt.ca/wpcontent/uploads/2018/11/ReplacementStamp-and-Certificate-Order-FormFillable-2018-11-09.pdf. Northern Job Board While NAPEG doesn’t facilitate hiring, we host a job board on our website with the latest opportunities to work in engineering and geoscience in the North. Whether you are looking for a job, or looking to hire, it’s an invaluable resource.

Plus, starting this year, the latest jobs in

replace the Engineering and Geoscience

the industry will be highlighted in our

Professions Act with a new modernized

new quarterly newsletter to over 4,000

Act. NAPEG attended the first reading

email subscribers.

and provided amendments to the

Do you have a job you’d like posted? Let

Standing Committee on Economic

us know at www.napeg.nt.ca/resources/

Development and Environment.

job-opportunities/.

As of the time of this writing, the

Uniting Northern Voices

passing of Bill 93 has been delayed by

Engineers and geoscientists working in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut deserve to be represented to the territorial governments and other key stakeholders. NAPEG liaises with key government officials and provides industry insights for relevant legislative processes that impact the regulation of these professions.

the Behchoko/Yellowknife wildfire evacuation orders. Once passed, NAPEG will be responsible for rolling out many of the new changes. Working as an engineer or geoscientist in the Northwest Territories or Nunavut? Want to easily add a northern registration? Don’t forget to register as a

Of particular note, this past summer

professional to receive these benefits and

NAPEG contributed to the Northwest

unlock opportunities while working in

Territories Bill 93. Bill 93 will repeal and

the North. Visit us at www.napeg.nt.ca. 7 19


Sensor-based sorting technologies take the guesswork out of ore processing As sensor-based sorting technologies evolve, SRC is expanding its service to provide testwork solutions for the future needs of the mining industry.

With over 75 years of knowledge and expertise, the Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC) offers a range of services to meet the ever-evolving needs of Canada’s mining industry. SRC is growing its sensor-based sorting (SBS) capabilities to offer new services that help companies adopt ore-sorting technologies — offering a variety of benefits including reduced processed waste and increased mine life. SBS is a collection of technologies that separate ore particles or parcels of ore/ waste based on mineralogical differences that sensors can detect. “It provides another tool in the toolkit of mineral processing to remove waste rock or concentrate certain ore types to make the process more efficient,” says Mike McCubbing, manager of SRC’s Diamond Services team. Particle sorting (also called ore sorting) separates coarse ore particles (10 to 20

100 mm) using sensors and mechanical separation using air ejectors. Bulk sorting on the other hand detects the characteristics of whole ore particle parcels and can then separate these parcels from each other with a range of separation techniques, such as deviation of a conveyed feed on a belt. Creating a centralized source for sorting services From sensor-based mineral characterization to pilot testing, SRC provides the mining industry with a variety of solutions for all stages of production, including exploration, design, operations, and brownfield expansions. “We provide geochemical and mineralogical data for mining and exploration companies for many different commodities, such as uranium, gold, base metals, potash, and rare earths,” says Rob

Millar, manager of SRC Geoanalytical Laboratories. SRC has designed a testing regime to assist industry clients with choosing the right sensor-based sorting technology for their needs. The regime starts with sensor-based mineral characterization, then targeting and modelling, and finishes with pilot-scale testing. SRC’s full suite of minerals liberation sorting services is based on expertise and technologies from across its facilities, such as SRC Geoanalytical Laboratories, Diamond Laboratory, and Minerals Processing. This creates a “one-stop-shop” that serves a mining company’s sorting needs for any ore-sorting technology. Three stages of testing for sensor-based sorting The first stage, a specialized sensor-based mineralogical characterization service,


assesses the type of technology and the amenability of ores to SBS technologies, based on the specific mineralogical characteristics of each ore. This allows companies to determine the optimal sensor technology at the optimal size and the information will eventually lead into modelling and total circuit design for processing these ores. “Mineral characterization is the process of identifying, measuring, and quantifying a mineral’s response to different sensors,” says Jane Danoczi, a senior process engineer in SRC’s Mining and Energy Division. “With that information, you can identify what sensors will work with what ore.” Danoczi is responsible for mineral characterization, which measures an ore’s unique qualities to evaluate how it responds to different sensors. The distinct physical and chemical compositions of ore elicit different responses from different sensors, so a strong understanding of individual ore mineralogy is crucial to the successful adoption of SBS technology. It is not only important to understand the mineralogy and sample grades, but also the textures of these minerals, the volumetric proportion of the minerals relative to others at different sizes, and the levels of dissemination and whether they are heterogenous at certain size fractions and can be sorted. SRC has the knowledge and expertise to assess the viability of sorting options and can develop custom-made sensor-based solutions for industry. “With sensor-based sorting, you have to look at each fragment or particle and its complexity to see how to sort, but now we have a metric that can quantify this complexity and predict how it will respond to a sensor,” says Danoczi. Using the Homogeneity Factor™ method developed by Danoczi’s team, the

sortability at different size fractions by different sensors can more rigorously be determined in a methodological way.

The model is developed by SRC experts through sorting first and includes inspection tests, models, and algorithms.

This unique method assesses a particle’s complexity by rating it on a scale between positive 100 and negative 100. The higher the value, the easier the ore particle is to identify and sort. A low value like -90, for example, means the fragment is not homogenous with respect to the target mineral assemblage and will be more difficult for the sensor to sort.

The final stage — pilot testing — allows industry clients to obtain refined algorithms and an understanding of sorting yields and recoveries, as well as general performance of the full circuit. This phase is important in determining the feasibility and capital costs of a sorting project.

These results lead to potentially different sorting options – based on different target minerals (not only desired metal, but also waste or associated minerals) – that can be successfully detected by sensors at sortable size ranges. The next stage — targeting and modelling — helps clients decide on a desirable sorting strategy (i.e., which mineral, which size, and which sensor) and then create a semi-empirical model with sorter data and start scaling up the testwork to develop. Clients can use the valuable modelling information to test out various scenarios in the design phase for their operation.

Helping clients navigate technology and testwork While the wide assortment of technical options can seem daunting, SRC can help mining companies navigate their sorting options by offering technological insight and processing expertise. SRC also helps companies navigate the testwork needed to identify and optimize sorting applications. Based on the need for common testwork methodology, SRC is at the forefront of developing standardized methods to assist companies and other stakeholders, such as consulting companies, with this. Read the full article at src.sk.ca/blog. 7 21


World Mining Congress raises awareness of gender inequity from the mine face to the main stage By Jocelyn Peltier-Huntley has been to support mentors to become allies and champions for women in the workplace. Similarly, my PhD project is intended to help equip potential allies with the knowledge and skills they need to aid in shifting workplace systems and culture in the mining industry to ensure that all people achieve their full potential.

Speakers from the session on Future Ways of Working at the 26th World Mining Congress, (L to R): Mogaleadi Seabela, Kate Hobbs, Zulfatun Mahmudah, Gavin Lind (Session Chair), Jocelyn PeltierHuntley, Eleonora Widzyk-Capehart.

The 26th World Mining Congress brought together more than 3,500 mining professionals from more than 70 countries from June 26 to 29, 2023 in Brisbane, Australia. The conference had 13 technical streams, ranging from digital transformation to training the future workforce. Common themes throughout the conference centred around mining’s essential role in the energy transition through to supplying critical minerals. I was privileged to be one of a few Canadians who attended and presented at the World Mining Congress. I presented two papers, one on the lessons learned from Women in Mining and Women in Nuclear Saskatchewan’s (WIM/WiN-SK) Mentorship program and one on my PhD project, which aims to activate workplace allies. My PhD project is sponsored by International Minerals Innovation Institute (IMII), Mitacs, and Vanier Canada. WIM/WiN-SK works to inspire, connect, and support a diverse and inclusive workforce in the Saskatchewan mining and nuclear industries. Their vision is driving growth through parity and WIM/WiN-SK’s Mentorship program was launched in 2017. While a key driver for the WIM/WiN-SK mentorship program is to support women in their careers, an outcome of the program 22

When I attend mining conferences, I fully expect that the equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) sessions which I attend and present at will be mostly attended by women, and the conversations we have are rarely discussed on the main stage. Unlike the rest of the mining conference, men are often underrepresented in these EDI discussions which are often centered on the challenges faced by women in mining. At the World Mining Congress, I was pleasantly surprised when Rohitesh Dhawan, president and chief executive officer of the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM), changed the narrative; he brought challenges faced by women in mining to the main stage during the opening of the conference. The personal story Dhawan recounted occurred when working as a consultant more than a decade ago. A group of his fellow consultants had gone underground mid-day and had the cage to themselves. However, their return trip coincided with a shift change and they had to share a crowded cage with a crew of workers. During the dark trip to the surface, Dhawan could hear his female co-workers being groped by the mine workers. No one spoke up or tried to stop what was happening to the women. When the cage finally arrived at the surface, Dhawan felt relieved that the awkward cage ride was over. To his knowledge, no one checked in with the women to see if they were okay and no one raised a formal complaint. The events which occurred on the cage ride were effectively swept under the rug. More than a decade later, on the main stage of the World Mining Congress, Dhawan reflected on how he had failed to act as an ally and that he now understood what happened on the cage ride was not an isolated incident. Many reports, such as Rio Tinto’s Everyday Respect report and my 2022 publication in the CIM Journal (“A case for advancing psychological health and safety along with equity, diversity, and inclusion”), have documented ways women


in mining are treated differently than men. On the World Mining Congress’s main stage, Dhawan reflected on the ways that he wishes he had intervened, checked in, or spoken up. While Dhawan cannot go back and change his inaction from more than a decade ago, by sharing his story he brought the challenges faced by women in mining to the main stage. Following his presentation, nearly all of the male leaders who came on the main stage echoed their commitment to addressing sexism and sexual assault in mining. Through sharing his story, Dhawan catalyzed a change in the conference narrative. Afterwards, the leaders’ main stage presentation included commitments to advance EDI and increase women’s representation. Leaders spoke of ways they are rebuilding trust by promoting psychological safety at the same level as physical safety, reviewing policies and systems for potential bias — such as conducting gender pay analysis — and training employees to be active allies. All of these initiatives are necessary to establish the credibility and trust required for the mining industry to effectively collaborate and deliver the critical minerals required for global energy transformation. I have worked in the mining industry for nearly 20 years and this is the first large-scale mining conference where I have heard the challenges faced by women in mining acknowledged on the main stage. I worked directly in the mining industry for the first 13 years of my career in roles such as project engineer, project manager, and engineering superintendent. Often, I was the only woman in my department and the only woman in the room. Because there were so few people like me in my workplace, I often did not recognize when I experienced sexism. While I am fortunate to not have been sexually assaulted at work, I now have the understanding to know I experienced many occurrences of sexism, including pay inequity, sexist and biased comments, harassment, and even constructive dismissal. I returned to academia to better understand the inequities I experienced and saw happening to others around me in my workplaces in my master’s program. My PhD program is focused on engaging all people, including men, to be active workplace allies in part so that incidents like the one Dhawan described do not happen. After attending the World Mining Congress, I am hopeful that the shift I have been wanting to see in the mining industry is underway. It is encouraging that the experiences of women and others who are under-represented in their workplaces are being acknowledged outside of women in mining events, such as WIM/WiN-SK’s Mine Your Potential conference. A step in the right direction is that leaders are taking accountability, actions are being taken, and importantly we are normalizing the conversations about sexism and other forms of inequities. If we want to solve the challenges faced by women in mining, we all

need to be comfortable talking about them from the mining face to the main stage. Jocelyn Peltier-Huntley is an EDI researcher, professional mechanical engineer, PhD candidate, and vice-chair of the WIM/WiN-SK board with nearly 20 years of experience leading change. Through her business, Prairie Catalyst Consulting (www. prairiecatalyst.ca), Peltier-Huntley creates awareness and removes roadblocks, enabling individuals and organizations to realize the benefits of inclusion and achieve their full potential. She helps her clients lead change with a consultative and collaborative approach. Read her papers in the World Mining Congress proceedings. You can contact her at: Jocelyn Peltier-Huntley, M.Sc. P.Eng. Principal and Owner, Prairie Catalyst Consulting Corp. 34 Cambridge Crescent Saskatoon, SK S7H 3P8 T: 1-306-250-3450 E: jocelyn@prairiecatalyst.ca vicechair@wimwinsk.com www.prairiecatalyst.ca www.wimwinsk.com. 7

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Zinc

Lead

Zn Pb pinepointmining.com 23


Bulkley Valley’s one-stop shop

Bulkley Valley Wholesale serves an area surrounding Smithers that extends west along Highway 16 to Terrace and east to Burns Lake. We also serve the entire Highway 37 corridor.

Bulkley Valley Wholesale is a leading provider of grocery and food service products to independent grocers, mining camps, lodges and restaurants in the northwest corner of British Columbia.

Bulkley Valley Wholesale is a grocery and food service wholesaler that has served northwest British Columbia for over 50 years. We are part of the Save-On-Foods organization, a privately owned company that is a division of the Jim Pattison Group.

northwest corner of British Columbia. The same formula of buying direct from manufacturers, personalized service, and the strength and backing of Save-On-Foods has positioned us to continue the business of wholesale, which started in 1959.

With sales of over $5.7 billion and more than 30,000 employees, the Jim Pattison Group is the third-largest private company in Canada. Serving the region The approach of buying direct from manufacturers and servicing their customers proved to be a great business approach and it wasn’t long before Bulkley Valley Wholesale became a business that was positioned to prosper for years to come. In 1973, Tom and John Leach purchased the business from their parents and carried on the tradition for more than 30 years with tremendous growth and success. This also meant moving and expanding to the current location on Highway 16. In 2000, requests came from the community and Bulkley Valley Wholesale opened its doors to the public while still focusing on the core business of wholesale. Soon after, Bulkley Valley Wholesale was purchased by the Save-On-Foods organization and today the business of wholesale is still its foundation. Bulkley Valley Wholesale proudly continues to be a leading provider of grocery and food service products to independent grocers, mining camps, lodges, and restaurants in the 24

Bulkley Valley Wholesale is proud to be a leading provider of grocery and food service products to: Independent grocers Bulkley Valley Wholesale serves more than 50 independent grocery and store locations throughout northwest British Columbia. We continue to grow this area of the business as we explore and find new ways to meet the varied needs of our retail customers. Mining camps & lodges We have been serving mining camps and the resort lodge community for several decades and we pride ourselves in the relationships we foster with the chefs and camp operators in these often-remote locations. Our geographic location in northwest B.C. enables us to better meet the needs of area camps by offering the most competitive overall pricing available to the area. Restaurants Serving over 100 independent food service customers in the northwest region, Bulkley Valley Wholesale has earned the reputation as a reliable and trusted supplier to the foodservice industry.


Logistics

Order desk options

We serve an area surrounding Smithers that extends west along Highway 16 to Terrace and east to Burns Lake. We also serve the entire Highway 37 corridor.

Our order desk is designed to make it easier for you to place your order. Contact us for the order and delivery schedule for your area.

We have three of our own temperature-controlled trucks that serve Smithers and along Highway 16. We partner with thirdparty carriers for outlying areas including the Highway 37 corridor and the Nisga Highway.

Order desk hours are Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday we are closed; and Sunday we are open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Cash & carry is a concept that keeps the business simple and passes the savings on to you. With a full complement of national brands and Western Family products, you will be delighted with what you save while filling your pantry.

Orders can also be placed online at bulkleyvalleywholesale.com. 7

Our perishable departments are recognized as having the freshest quality, including locally produced products, and we only sell Western Canadian beef. The support we’ve received from our community for over 50 years has allowed us to take a leading role in sponsoring youth activities in the region.

Your CAMP FILL Specialists Fresh Produce • Frozen Foods • Bulk Foods • Meats • Dairy • Tobacco • Confectionery P.O. Box 667 | Smithers BC | V0J 2N0 | Canada

T: 250-847-3313 | F: 250-847-3906 1-800-579-3313 | www.bulkleyvalleywholesale.com 25


Bring it to the surface with the CDDA By Ashley Gauvin, Membership Services Coordinator, CDDA

The Canadian Diamond Drilling Association (CDDA) is proud

the right thing to do, but can contribute to your companies’

to announce the launch of our Bring It to the Surface health and

overall success.

wellness campaign. This campaign is a much-needed diamond drilling industry-wide initiative that focuses on improving the overall mental health and wellness of our industry. At CDDA, we are excited to be leading this charge and taking the first steps towards a more supportive and open culture around mental health. The official launch marks an important milestone in our

within the industry to prioritize mental health and wellness. As an industry-wide initiative, Bring it to the Surface aims to spread awareness, drive action, and share mental health and wellness resources with each other.

efforts to spread awareness, share resources, and make a real

We invite companies to become an ambassador for the campaign

impact on the health and well-being of our industry.

as individuals can help grow the initiative and make a real

The Canadian Diamond Drilling Association Bring It to the Surface campaign is a vital and necessary initiative that focuses

impact on the industry. Ambassadors are essential in guiding the conversation around mental health and wellness, and creating a

on improving the mental health and wellness of the diamond

culture that supports one another.

drilling industry. It’s time to start the conversation and bring

We would like to take this moment to recognize our current

mental health to the surface. One of the central aspects of the campaign is the Bring It to the

ambassadors Foraco, PDAC, Fordia Powered by Epiroc, ICAMP Canadore, Hy-Tech Drilling, Di-Corp, Aziwell, Imdex, Sofvie,

Surface Pledge. By signing the pledge on our website, individuals

Boart Longyear, RJLL and AME Association for Mineral

commit to educating themselves on mental health and wellness

Exploration.

and supporting others by creating an open environment for

Overall, Bring It to the Surface is an essential initiative that

discussion. They also pledge to support the CDDA and the industry as a whole as we move forward with this campaign.

26

The campaign’s goal is to encourage individuals and companies

encourages individuals and companies to prioritize mental health and wellness. By taking the pledge and becoming an

It’s essential to recognize that mental health and wellness are

ambassador, we can start the conversation and make a real

interconnected with physical health and safety in the workplace.

impact on the health and wellness of our industry. Remember,

Mental illness is one of the leading causes of workplace disability

just like the minerals we extract, nothing happens if we don’t

and absenteeism, so addressing mental health issues is not only

bring mental health to the surface. 7


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