Australian Mining November 2024

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COMMENT

NO TIME TO WASTE WITH THE HELP OF THE METS SECTOR, AUSTRALIAN MINING COMPANIES HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO EVOLVE THE WAY THEY MANAGE THEIR WASTE.

TOM PARKER tom.parker@primecreative.com.au

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here are many avenues for mining companies to improve their environmental performance.

This could involve decarbonising operations, whereby various technologies and methodologies can be implemented to drive down a miner’s carbon footprint.

The management of mine waste also offers opportunities to not only adhere to environmental regulations but also unlock operational efficiencies.

As more and more legislation is introduced to govern the way mine sites manage their waste, mining companies need to be increasingly vigilant about how they conduct themselves and how they manage leftover material from the mining process.

The Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management is one such type of reform, empowering greater proactivity to ensure the safe management of tailings facilities and avoid catastrophic dam collapses such as Brumadinho and Samarco.

To support miners on their mine waste management journey, the mining equipment, technology and services (METS) sector has been hard at work developing novel solutions for waste management applications.

The November edition of Australian Mining takes the opportunity to celebrate some of these METS companies and their innovations.

This includes Surfcleaner, which has developed patented surface separator technology to enable the capture of hydraulic oil from water.

This technology has been advantageous in underground mines, where volatile organic compounds (VOC) emissions can pose risks to

worker health and overall productivity. Surfcleaner technology collects hydrocarbons before they are emitted into the air, or find their way into water.

Mandalay Resources is seeing the benefits of the Surfcleaner technology in its water management at a Swedish gold mine. In just five days, the company was able to recover 400 litres of oil from the pumping area where it was situated.

An Australian company made up of a consortium of international businesses, Circular Mine has partnered with Amira Global to oversee the P1342 project, which is dedicated to fast-tracking the full re-use of mine tailings and refinery residue on a commercial scale.

We chat to Circular Mine about the project scope, which includes the development of a support tool for miners to make sustainable mine waste decisions, as well as a repository of practical guidelines that can be applied to any mining operation.

Complementing the industry’s mine waste management innovations, the November edition also takes the opportunity to celebrate MINExpo 2024, while we also profile Ramelius Resources – one of the fastest growing Australian gold miners.

We also wrap up the latest WA Mining Conference & Exhibition and celebrate the 2024 Prospect Awards winners.

Tom Parker Editor

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER JOHN MURPHY

KELSIE TIBBEN Email: kelsie.tibben@primecreative.com.au

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER CHRISTINE CLANCY

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MANAGING EDITOR PAUL HAYES

CLIENT SUCCESS MANAGER JANINE CLEMENTS Tel: (02) 9439 7227 Email: janine.clements@primecreative.com.au

EDITOR TOM PARKER Email: tom.parker@primecreative.com.au ASSISTANT EDITOR ALEXANDRA EASTWOOD Email: alexandra.eastwood@primecreative.com.au JOURNALISTS OLIVIA THOMSON Email: olivia.thomson@primecreative.com.au

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AUSTRALIANMINING 3 NOVEMBER 2024

FRONT COVER

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IN THIS ISSUE 16

16

MINE WASTE MANAGEMENT

44

SURFACE MINING

22

MINE WASTE MANAGEMENT

50

GOLD

34

CRITICAL MINERALS

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EQUIPMENT

A mine-waste breakthrough New technology from the University of Queensland is proving to be a gamechanger for mine waste management.

Combining industry heavyweights Hexagon, Scania and Fidens brought Brazil’s first remotely operated 8x4 mining truck online. Australian Mining looks at how the companies made it happen.

Fuelling the critical minerals revolution Aurelia Metals’ Federation critical minerals mine is officially up and running in NSW.

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MINE TECHNOLOGY

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The evolution of the Cat hydraulic shovel Caterpillar’s 6040 hydraulic mining shovel has taken the Australian resources industry by storm.

Partnerships based on safety KOR is working with Gerotto to provide robotic solutions that improve safety and reduce risk in the Australian mining industry.

A gold Greatland Australian Mining takes a deep dive into Greatland Gold’s acquisition of two Newmont gold assets.

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INDUSTRY EVENTS

A premier mining showcase The 2024 WA Mining Conference and Exhibition was a must-see event for anyone in the mining industry.

Top-tier customer service National Plastics and Rubber has expanded with a new supply centre in WA.

REGULARS

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6 FOLLOW THE LEADERS

PROSPECT AWARDS

The winners of the 2024 Prospect Awards The 2024 Australian Mining Prospect Awards was a night of celebration, recognition and connection.

3 COMMENT 8 NEWS 76 PRODUCTS 78 EVENTS

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AUSTRALIANMINING 5 NOVEMBER 2024

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FOLLOW THE LEADERS

FOLLOW THE LEADERS: THE LATEST EXECUTIVE APPOINTMENTS KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST EXECUTIVE MOVEMENTS ACROSS THE MINING SECTOR, FEATURING BOSS ENERGY, ALBEMARLE, THE ICMM, AND MORE.

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oss Energy has welcomed former IGO acting chief executive officer (CEO) Matt Dusci as its new chief operating officer (COO).

Dusci has more than 25 years of experience in all facets of the mining industry, including technical studies, project development, operations, business development, strategy and executive leadership.

His experience spans a diverse range of commodities, including battery metals.

For the past 10 years, Dusci has held several executive positions at IGO, which in addition to acting chief executive officer include chief operating officer and chief growth officer.

Boss chief executive officer Duncan Craib said Dusci has played a major role in the growth, development and transformation of IGO. “With the ramp up at Honeymoon proceeding so well, we are advancing our strategy to grow the project’s inventory, production rate and mine life,” Craib said.

“As part of this strategy, we are committed to building a worldclass team of highly skilled and experienced people who can help ensure we maximise our huge opportunities.”

Albemarle has revealed several executive changes as part of its company wide structural change, most of which take effect on November 1.

Specialties business president Netha Johnson will become COO, where she will lead the company’s global manufacturing, research and technology, capital projects and process chemistry execution.

Energy storage business president Eric Norris will also move into the chief commercial officer role, where he will oversee enterprise product management, sales and commercial excellence.

Executive vice president and chief people officer Melissa Anderson will become chief transformation officer, a role that reflects Anderson’s current oversight of people, strategy and transformation.

Senior vice president of capital projects and integrated supply chain Mark Mummert will move into the chief capital, resources and integrated supply chain officer role, including expanded responsibilities for resources, joint venture management, customer service and operational excellence.

Other executive changes announced includes Stacy Grant moving from vice president and deputy general counsel, global corporate affairs to general counsel, corporate secretary and chief compliance officer.

The International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) has announced Tom Palmer, president and CEO of Newmont, as its new chair.

Palmer succeeds Iván Arriagada, CEO of Antofagasta Minerals, who has led the ICMM for the past two years.

ICMM is governed by a council made up of the CEOs from its 24 member companies, with the chair appointed from within the group and their term lasts for approximately two years.

“I am delighted to welcome Tom as our new chair as we embark on our new strategy to drive responsible mining practices under a consolidated Standard while enhancing dialogue and engagement with our stakeholders,” ICMM president and CEO Rohitesh Dhawan said.

“Tom has led by example in this regard, having chaired ICMM’s Social Performance Advisory Group and through his genuine sustainability leadership within our industry.”

Palmer said he is excited to be working with ICMM. “Newmont is a founding member of ICMM, sharing its vision for a safe, just and sustainable mining industry,” he said.

“I look forward to working closely with ICMM leadership, council

AUSTRALIANMINING 6 NOVEMBER 2024

members, and the wider mining industry. My focus will be on building support across the sector for a consolidated mining standard.”

Newly named Patronus Resources has promoted experienced mining executive John Ingram from COO to CEO. Graham Ascough also joined the board as a non-executive director, bringing more than 30 years of experience in mining, while Rowan Johnston has transitioned to nonexecutive chair.

“With the merger between Patronus and PNX Metals having been successfully completed and our corporate rebranding finalised, the company has well and truly embarked on its next exciting growth chapter – underpinned by a strong balance sheet and an exceptional asset portfolio,” Johnston said.

“With drilling completed recently, a new MRE (mineral resource estimate) is being prepared for the Mertondale project and exploration drilling continues in Leonora.

“Further multiple exploration and drill programs are about to begin targeting uranium, gold and base metals in the NT. With all these programs going on, Patronus is set for a very exciting period of activity and newsflow ahead.”

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NEWS

THE LATEST MINING AND SAFETY NEWS AUSTRALIAN MINING PRESENTS THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE BOARDROOM TO THE MINE AND EVERYWHERE IN BETWEEN. VISIT WWW.AUSTRALIANMINING.COM.AU TO KEEP UP TO DATE WITH WHAT IS HAPPENING. BHP INVESTS IN NEW TIER 1 PROSPECT BHP IS TEAMING UP WITH COBRE TO EXPLORE TIER 1 COPPER-SILVER DEPOSITS IN BOTSWANA.

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AUSTRALIAN MINING GETS THE LATEST NEWS EVERY DAY, PROVIDING MINING PROFESSIONALS WITH UP-TO-THE-MINUTE INFORMATION ON SAFETY, NEWS AND TECHNOLOGY FOR THE AUSTRALIAN MINING AND RESOURCES INDUSTRY.

BHP is teaming up with emerging metals explorer Cobre to explore new Tier 1 copper-silver deposits in Botswana.

The Big Australian is in talks for an earn-in joint venture over Cobre’s Kitlanya West and East copper projects, located on the northern and southern basin margins of the Kalahari copper belt.

The proposed transaction follows on from Cobre’s participation in the BHP Xplor program, which also

provided funding for a recently completed seismic survey at the Kitlanya West project.

A partnership with BHP would provide the exploration scale and expertise to maximise Cobre’s chances of making significant new discoveries on its basin margin exploration ground while retaining 100 per cent ownership of its Ngami and Okavango copper projects, which are excluded from the potential deal.

Cobre chief executive officer Adam Wooldridge said the deal underscores Cobre’s confidence in the potential for its projects to host Tier 1 copper-silver deposits.

“Successful negotiation and completion of this significant transaction with BHP ... will be a major moment in time for Cobre as a company,” Wooldridge said.

“Participating in the BHP 2024 Xplor cohort has provided the opportunity to do a belt-scale

review of the Kalahari copper belt, culminating in the collection of seismic data over the prospective northern margin of the belt.

“The proposed transaction with BHP would allow us to fully fund our follow-on exploration programs and focus on discovering the Tier 1 deposits we believe may be hosted in our Kitlanya West and East projects.”

Independently, Cobre will continue advancing its in-situ copper recovery development at Ngami – with a scoping study due in early October – along with further drilling at Okavango.

into Victoria’s geological landscape, with a focus on enhancing exploration techniques for critical minerals and gold, key commodities for the region’s future.

Caley’s keynote presentation at the Discoveries in the Tasmanides conference provided further depth, covering the geology of Victoria and eastern Australia.

His speech emphasised the potential for new discoveries in under-explored areas of the Tasmanides region, which stretches across eastern Australia and is known for its mineral richness.

Some key information to come out of the conference is that the Lachlan orocline plays a crucial role in shaping the mineral systems in eastern Australia.

The orocline’s formation, driven by subduction and the collision of the microcontinent Vandieland, created ideal conditions for mineralisation particularly in the Ordovician-Silurian Lachlan Fold Belt.

This process led to the formation of deposits such as the Cadia and Ridgeway porphyry systems which underpin gold and copper production in New South Wales.

VICTORIA’S MOST PROMISING MINERAL DEPOSITS In September, geoscientists had the opportunity to get up close to drill core examples from three of Victoria’s most promising mineral deposits.

The trip was organised as part of the Discoveries in the Tasmanides conference, providing attendees with the chance to examine drill core from the Fosterville and Costerfield mines, as well as the Sunday Creek gold-antimony project.

Co-led by Ross Caley, senior geologist from the Geological Survey of Victoria, the field trip took participants from Melbourne to Albury.

Along the route, key geological structures such as the Heathcote Fault and Moormbool Fault, critical features of the Costerfield goldantimony deposit, were examined.

Costerfield is known as Australia’s only antimony-producing mine, highlighting its importance in the country’s critical minerals strategy.

More than 50 geoscientists participated in the trip, with new technical data from various Victorian gold and critical minerals operations shared with attendees.

This was seen as a unique opportunity to gain fresh insights

AUSTRALIANMINING 8 NOVEMBER 2024

AUSTRALIANMINING 9 NOVEMBER 2024

NEWS

MORE URANIUM MINERALISATION UNCOVERED IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA Lincoln Minerals uncovered highgrade uranium mineralisation at its Eridani deposit situated within the eastern Eyre Peninsula in South Australia in September.

As part of its uranium portfolio prospectivity review, Lincoln commenced a first-pass reconnaissance sampling program at Eridani earlier this year to determine the attractiveness of the Eyre Peninsula’s geological setting and assess uranium mineralisation potential within the region.

The company undertook a review of historic data from Eridani, which indicated accounts of carnotite

uranium mineralisation at the abandoned Minbrie West quarry, which previously mined for marble and talc.

To confirm the historic carnotite uranium mineralisation, Lincoln gathered 12 outcrop samples from Minbrie West and, by using portable x-ray fluorescence (pXRF) analysers, targeted the yellow mineralisation coating on the rock chips. This coating has been confirmed to be carnotite.

Some of the pXRF results included hits of 9250 parts per million (ppm) uranium at MQ12, 6219ppm uranium at UMQ11 and 6890ppm uranium at UMQ10.

Historic drill core logs at Eridani also identified potential targets for uranium mineralisation, with the samples associated with extensive hydrothermal alteration of Donington Suite granites.

“The alteration occurs along fault and shear zones 2km southeast of the quarry and is proximal to Hiltaba Suite granite intrusions,” Lincoln Minerals said.

“The drill holes, initially part of Centrex Metals’ 2007–2011 iron ore exploration program, were not previously assayed for uranium, however, recent discoveries of uranium mineralisation by Alligator Energy, northeast of the Eridani

project area, have prompted further investigation.”

Lincoln has submitted pXRF analyses of the samples collected, with the results anticipated to be completed and released in the fourth quarter of 2024. The results will include additional mapping and sampling along the identified fault zone and will be used to aid future exploration.

Succeeding phases of the exploration program will involve reassaying historic drill core such as Centrex Metals’ drillholes to further understand the extent and grade of the uranium mineralisation in order to assist with target generation.

receive $2 million for the continued expansion of the project as it ramps up to production.

“We are thrilled to receive this approval from the State of Queensland, which underscores the significant economic impact that Ardmore is poised to have on the Mount Isa region,” Centrex managing director and chief executive officer Robert Mencel said.

“This funding will contribute significantly to driving economic growth and creating employment opportunities in regional Australia, including for First Nations communities.”

Queensland Minister for Resources and Critical Minerals Scott Stewart said the almost 500 jobs are just the start of the state’s mining job creation.

“Mount Isa has been the backbone of Queensland’s resources industry for over a century and the Miles Government firmly believes the city will continue to play that role for the next 100 years,” Stewart said.

“The structural adjustment package complements the $30-million Mount Isa Mining Acceleration Program which will expedite mining projects in the North West Minerals Province, creating almost 1000 long-term jobs.”

GOVERNMENT TO STIMULATE 500 MOUNT ISA JOBS million to accelerate resources projects in the North West Minerals Province.

The Mount Isa Transition Fund includes $14.7 million for 10 projects including associated program delivery costs and $5.3 million for Mount Isa City Council to implement projects identified through its own economic transition strategy.

Combined, the projects are expected to create an estimated 483 fulltime equivalent construction and ongoing jobs.

One project in line for funding is Centrex’s Ardmore phosphate project just south of Mount Isa. Centrex will

IMAGE: CHRIS ISON/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

The Queensland Government approved 10 projects to support almost 500 local jobs in Mount Isa ahead of planned mine closures by resources giant Glencore.

Glencore announced in October 2023 that it will close its underground copper mine and copper concentrator in Mount Isa in 2025, along with the nearby Lady Loretta zinc mine.

The new projects are being funded via the $20-million Mount Isa Transition Fund, as part of a broader $50-million structural adjustment package which also includes $30 ALMOST 500 LOCAL JOBS IN MOUNT ISA HAVE BEEN SUPPORTED AHEAD OF PLANNED MINE CLOSURES BY GLENCORE.

AUSTRALIANMINING 10 NOVEMBER 2024

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NEWS

THE NEW CAT DYNAMIC ENERGY TRANSFER SYSTEM ALLOWS FOR ENERGY TRANSFER TO BOTH DIESELELECTRIC AND BATTERY-ELECTRIC MINING TRUCKS.

CATERPILLAR UNVEILS ‘GROUNDBREAKING’ ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM Caterpillar introduced an innovative solution designed to address a major challenge in the mining industry’s shift to renewable energy: energy management.

The new Cat Dynamic Energy Transfer (DET) system allows for energy transfer to both diesel-electric and battery-electric mining trucks, increasing operational efficiency and reducing downtime.

The fully Caterpillar-developed Cat DET system not only supports the transfer of energy while trucks are in operation but also enhances

performance by charging machine batteries during use.

This capability allows for increased speed on grade, providing significant operational improvements and contributing to long-term sustainability goals.

“We believe Cat DET provides a technological leap for the mining industry,” Caterpillar resource industries group president Denise Johnson said.

“Our team of innovators designed this system to provide immediate benefit to miners who want to lower

their operating costs and greenhouse gas emissions today while also creating flexibility for the future.”

The Cat DET system is made up of several integrated components, including a power module, an electrified rail system, and a machine system.

This customisable rail system is adaptable to various mine layouts and can be easily moved or expanded to maximise mine site coverage.

The system’s flexibility extends to compatibility with different truck models, allowing for installation on either side of the truck.

It also integrates with Caterpillar’s MineStar Command for hauling, combining electrification and automation technologies to optimise site operations.

“We believe mine sites will benefit from enhanced efficiency with the integration of electrification and automation,” Caterpillar senior vice president Marc Cameron said.

“When combined, these technologies will help miners achieve production targets while simultaneously managing energy demands.”

Gold managing director Michael Hudson said.

“Golden Dyke now joins Rising Sun and Apollo as the third highgrade mineralised domain in this exciting project.”

Hudson credited Southern Cross’ systemic drill approach for the find.

“Given this discovery, the company has already planned a significant

number of further holes under Golden Dyke,” he said.

Located 60km north of Melbourne, the Sunday Creek project has seen 131 drill holes completed since late 2020.

Southern Cross owns 133 hectares of freehold land at Sunday Creek that form the key portion in and around the main drilled area of the project.

SOUTHERN CROSS DIGS DEEPER AT HISTORIC SITE Southern Cross Gold discovered a new and large gold-antimony below the historic Golden Dyke mine in Victoria in September.

The discovery was made at Southern Cross’ 100 per cent owned Sunday Creek gold-antimony project, with the mineralised zone hosting both metals and measuring at 135m.

The zone is also located 260m and 600m west, respectively, of the Rising Sun and Apollo prospects.

“The expanding Sunday Creek system coupled with the 60 kilometres of diamond drilling planned over the next year means we are well on our way to meet our aim to double the size of the Sunday Creek exploration target,” Southern Cross

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COMPANY PROFILE

RAMELIUS: A GOLD MAGNET AUSTRALIAN MINING PROFILES RAMELIUS RESOURCES AND THE EXPANSION OF ITS GOLD PORTFOLIO ACROSS WESTERN AUSTRALIA.

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n a year full of fluctuating prices for various commodities, gold has been a fairly consistent player for the Australian mining industry, with prices consistently on the up.

A company that has reaped the benefits from the sustained gold price is Ramelius Resources, a Western Australian gold miner that’s been in production since 2006.

Backed by a plethora of operating mines and a $2.49 billion market cap, Ramelius is focused on growing its portfolio through targeted exploration and value-accretive acquisitions.

An example of the latter is when Ramelius acquired Apollo Consolidated in 2021, which saw it take ownership of the Rebecca gold project, situated 150km east of the beloved mining town of Kalgoorlie.

“The company’s approach to inorganic growth – or growth through acquisition – is that it shouldn’t simply be growth for growth’s sake,” Ramelius managing director Mark Zeptner told Australian Mining. “If we are adding ounces to our production profile, they

need to be profitable ounces and that is what we have focused on with our acquisition strategy.

“Some of the acquisitions we have completed in recent years, including Musgrave Minerals, Explaurum and Spectrum Metals, have been adding resources within trucking distance of our two processing hubs at Mt Magnet and Edna May. “Apollo and Breaker Resources differed slightly in that together they give us a resource of a sufficient scale (more than three million ounces) to support potentially building a new processing hub east of Kalgoorlie in the West Australian Goldfields.”

When Ramelius acquired Rebecca, it gave the company a project that covers a greenstone belt at the southern end of the 22-million-ounce (Moz) Laverton tectonic zone, a regionally significant structural corridor hosting multiple gold camps.

Backed by a mineral resource of 33 million tonnes (Mt) at 1.3 grams per tonne (g/t) gold for 1.4Moz, Rebecca is located 50km from the Roe gold project, which Ramelius acquired from

Breaker in 2023. Roe currently has a mineral resource of 32Mt at 1.6g/t gold for 1.8Moz. In recognising the synergies between both projects, Ramelius viewed its Roe acquisition as a chance to consolidate its landholding in the Kalgoorlie region.

“Ramelius is due to complete a pre-feasibility study on a combined Rebecca–Roe development in the December quarter of this year,” Zeptner said.

North-west of Kalgoorlie is the Murchison region, which hosts the Mt Magnet gold mine and the Cue gold project.

To aid Mt Magnet in sustaining a long production life, Ramelius has a 10year mine plan that anticipates a total gold production exceeding 1.5Moz. The plan includes mineral resources and production from Ramelius’ Penny, Cue, Eridanus and Bartus deposits. “(The Mt Magnet plan) is the result of our investment in exploration on our tenements in the region and in the acquisitions of Musgrave Minerals and Spectrum Metals, which have delivered us ownership of the high-grade Cue

THE PENNY GOLD MINE IS LOCATED APPROXIMATELY 150KM SOUTHEAST OF THE MT MAGNET MINING AND PROCESSING OPERATIONS. AUSTRALIANMINING 14 NOVEMBER 2024

and Penny gold projects respectively,” Zeptner said. “Ore from these projects is being, or will be, processed through the Mt Magnet mill.

“The plan details production of 1.5Moz over 10 years at an average of 150,000oz a year and sets Mt Magnet up to be Ramelius’ flagship operation over that period.

“All-in sustaining costs are forecast to be $1700/oz over the 10 years and should average a very competitive $1350/oz for the first three years of the plan.”

Zeptner said Cue will begin being processed through the Mt Magnet mill in the December 2024 quarter, with development at the site already progressing to plan.

“Pre-strip and development activities began in June, with the first blast taking place in July,” he said.

“Ore mining has also started with high-grade ore being stockpiled ahead of road intersection work being completed and ore haulage to Mt Magnet commencing.”

Alongside its compelling gold acquisitions, Ramelius has made

a strategic investment in Spartan Resources, the owner of the Dalgaranga gold project 65km northwest of Mt Magnet.

After first acquiring an 8.9 per cent stake in Spartan in June, Ramelius gradually increased that stake to 18.35 per cent in October.

“Ramelius continually evaluates gold assets in Western Australia and will make investments in the sector where it believes there is strategic rationale, which is what happened with Spartan,” Zeptner said.

“Acquired for $180.4 million at around the end of the (2023–24) financial year, our stake in Spartan had appreciated in value by almost $100 million in the three months to the end of September. In that sense alone, it is proving to be a shrewd investment.”

Despite 2024 nearly coming to a close, Zeptner believes the recent strength in gold means the bull market will continue for at least the short-term.

“The US’ recent move to cut interest rates is broadly expected to be positive for gold as fixed rate investments become less attractive,” he said.

“In terms of the Australian gold industry, we have started to see an easing in those inflationary pressures that grew quite acute during the (COVID-19) pandemic.

“In Western Australia at least, the labour market is no longer as

competitive as it has been in recent years.

“Combined with the strong gold price, the easing in input cost inflation means that most Australian miners have seen their profit margins expand, which has certainly been the case for Ramelius.

“We are also benefiting from the investments we have made in prior years, which have helped to lower our cost base significantly.”

Building off the record 293,033oz it produced during the 2023–24 financial year, Ramelius plans to close the 2024 calendar year on a high.

“Our key objectives for the rest of the year are continuing to focus on operational excellence and growing the resource base through smart, targeted exploration, as well as delivering the Eridanus and Rebecca– Roe studies,” Zeptner said.

“We will keep an eye out for attractive acquisition opportunities should they arise, noting that we retain significant financial flexibility and a business development team that is match-fit and ready to move quickly.

“More broadly, we want to ensure we adhere to our mission statement of being a sustainable gold producer that focuses on delivering superior returns for stakeholders.” AM

THE MT MAGNET GOLD MINE IS POSITIONED TO BE RAMELIUS’ FLAGSHIP ASSET.

UNDERGROUND AND OPEN-PIT STUDIES FOR THE ERIDANUS MINE ARE UNDERWAY TO ENHANCE THE MT MAGNET PROCESSING HUB.

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IMAGES: RAMELIUS RESOURCES

COMPANY PROFILE

IMAGE: CHARWANPHOTO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

MINE WASTE MANAGEMENT

NEW TECHNOLOGY FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF QUEENSLAND HAS THE POTENTIAL TO REVOLUTIONISE MINE WASTE MANAGEMENT.

A MINE-WASTE BREAKTHROUGH

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NEW TECHNOLOGY FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF QUEENSLAND IS PROVING TO BE A GAME-CHANGER FOR MINE WASTE MANAGEMENT.

he mining process can often lend itself to waste creation.

While the industry is essential for economic advancement and the energy transition, it almost inevitably generates mine waste or tailings. But the way miners are dealing with tailings is changing.

It’s estimated that the global mining industry produces around 10–12 billion tonnes of tailings per annum, a number that seen the industry rallying to move towards more sustainable practices in tailings management.

Monitoring and managing this waste has become increasingly complex and essential for the mining industry, particularly as environmental regulations tighten and sustainability takes centre stage.

University of Queensland Sustainable Minerals Institute associate professor Mansour Edraki spoke to Australian Mining about the new developments in drone and sensor technology that are transforming how mine waste is monitored and managed.

“Traditional methods of waste management involve drilling into the mine waste,” Edraki said. “In many cases, especially with mine tailings that are partially saturated, it’s not safe to drill.

“This new technology is nonintrusive, combining geophysics with geochemistry to monitor mine waste more effectively and accurately.”

This fusion of geophysics and geochemistry allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the properties of mine waste, offering several advantages over conventional methods.

Edraki said this integration not only improves accuracy but is also more costeffective, as it eliminates the need for extensive sampling and lab analysis.

“There are significant advantages to using geophysics and geochemistry together,” Edraki said.

“The geophysical methods, like electrical resistivity and induced polarisation, have been used in exploration, and now we are applying them to mine waste monitoring.”

One of the most exciting aspects of this new technology is its ability to address acid mine drainage, a persistent environmental issue in the industry.

Acid mine drainage occurs when exposed rocks interact with air and rainfall, resulting in contaminated water.

Edraki said that by using this innovative blend of techniques, researchers can better predict and monitor the generation of acid mine drainage from mine waste facilities.

“It’s really about the long-term stability of these facilities, both from a chemical and physical perspective, which involves safety and erosion concerns,” Edraki said.

The introduction of 4D monitoring has enabled mining companies to track changes in mine waste facilities over extended periods.

This feature is especially beneficial for monitoring the rehabilitation of tailings storage facilities after a mine’s closure.

“Drilling provides a snapshot in time,” Edraki said. “But with

AUSTRALIANMINING 16 NOVEMBER 2024

this system, you can go back and monitor changes, ensuring the facility remains safe, stable, and nonpolluting for the next 100, 200, or even 500 years.”

The technology has already garnered attention from major mining companies, including Rio Tinto, which selected Edraki’s proposal after initiating an open call for sensor technologies that could monitor waste storage facilities across its global operations.

Edraki’s team has since been working closely with the company to implement these advanced monitoring systems at a prominent copper mine.

Beyond addressing current challenges, Edraki believes that this technology could play a vital role in the future of mining, particularly in the context of the growing demand for critical minerals.

According to the International Energy Agency, demand for these minerals is expected to increase by three and a half times by 2030 to meet netzero targets by 2050.

MINE WASTE MANAGEMENT

As technology companies increasingly look to alternative resources for their metals, a case for reprocessing mine waste is starting to gain traction in the industry.

The UQ team is working on a four-year, $1 million project with the Queensland Government’s Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy (DNRME) examining new economy

IT’S ESTIMATED THAT THE GLOBAL MINING INDUSTRY PRODUCES AROUND 10–12 BILLION TONNES OF TAILINGS PER ANNUM.

MONITORING AND MANAGING WASTE HAS BECOME INCREASINGLY COMPLEX AND ESSENTIAL FOR THE MINING INDUSTRY.

AUSTRALIANMINING 17 NOVEMBER 2024

metal concentrations in Queensland’s mine wastes.

There are approximately 120 abandoned ‘priority’ mines in Queensland, with many containing mine waste features.

With researchers finding innovative ways to deal with tailings and mining companies working to create more ecofriendly mines, the future is bright for a more sustainable mining industry. AM IMAGE: MAKSIM MAKSIMOVICH/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Pyrite is one example of these metals.

A sulphide mineral commonly found in mine waste, pyrite contains significant concentrations of cobalt, a critical mineral used for manufacturing electric vehicles. Pyrite is commonly known as “fool’s gold” for its brass-yellow colour.

Other sulphides such as sphalerite and molybdenite contain indium and rhenium, used for touchscreens and high strength alloys.

IMAGE: CHRISTIAN VINCES/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

“We are going to produce a lot more minerals, which means more mining and, consequently, a lot more waste,” Edraki said.

“In copper mining, for example, more than 90 per cent of the mined material becomes waste. So, the business-asusual approach won’t work.

“We need much more intelligent, advanced ways of monitoring and predicting risks from these waste storage facilities.”

In addition to waste monitoring, this technology also has significant implications for land rehabilitation and mine closure.

Rehabilitation and closure costs are often underestimated, and the lack of appropriate tools for monitoring these processes makes it difficult to measure success accurately.

However, this new approach provides mining companies with the data needed to ensure rehabilitation efforts are effective and sustainable in the long term.

“Mine closure is a significant cost for the industry, and having enough data to meet closure criteria is crucial,” Edraki said.

“This technology can help monitor the performance of waste storage facilities, engineered covers, vegetation, and water balance, ensuring that we’re on the right trajectory for rehabilitation.”

As the mining industry continues to navigate the challenges of waste management, Edraki’s work offers a promising solution.

By combining geophysics, geochemistry, and advanced mathematical models, this approach not only improves the accuracy of mine waste monitoring but also enhances the industry’s ability to predict and mitigate environmental risks.

With major companies like Rio Tinto already on board, this technology has the potential to become a game-changer for the future of mining.

The Sustainable Minerals Institute is also working on a variety of different initiatives to tackle mining waste, including superpowered microbes.

The unidentified microbes are able to reduce the extreme alkalinity of bauxite residue (also known as red mud), and are a valuable technology that transforms toxic waste into functional soil.

Researchers say that while working on red mud, the microbes were noticed to be not only surviving in the extreme pH and salinity, but neutralising the hazardous alkaline wastes.

The Sustainable Minerals Institute said many mine sites may contain concentrations of new economy metals – metals and mineral elements essential to the development of emerging renewable, medical and consumer technologies.

MINE WASTE MANAGEMENT

IMAGES: ACU-TECH PIPING SYSTEMS

THE PE PIPE HYPE ACU-TECH PIPING SYSTEMS IS RENOWNED FOR ITS COMMITMENT TO MANUFACTURING AND SUPPLYING BESPOKE POLYETHYLENE PIPE SOLUTIONS.

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aste management is critical to all mining operations.

If waste material such as tailings and slurry are not handled safely and responsibly, there can be ramifications for not only the environment but also a mine’s social license to operate.

This is where Acu-Tech Piping Systems can help.

Acu-Tech manufactures and supplies comprehensive polyethylene (PE) pipe systems for a range of industries such as mining.

“We’re an Australian manufacturer that supplies directly to the mining company or contractor, providing all the necessary pipeline solutions and fittings,” Acu-Tech chief executive officer Ivan Morren told Australian Mining.

For years, PE pipes have been the preferred choice for various mining applications due to their proven performance in harsh terrains and extreme climates. Unique advantages include chemical resistance and fully welded, leak-free joints, ensuring the containment of potentially harmful substances.

“More abrasion resistant than steel, PE pipe is widely used in mines for the transport of slurry,” Ivan said.

“PE is also the most economical pipe system available as it’s durable, making it suitable for the harsh environments that are seen in mine waste and tailings.”

PE pipe is also renowned for its flexibility, enabling easy installation and transportation across uneven landscapes with no special preparation needed.

Unlike single-use plastic material, PE pipes are built to last, reducing the need for frequent costly replacements and minimising environmental impacts.

“PE pipe is built to have a long design life and is 100 per cent recyclable,” Acu-Tech general manager Donovan Morren told Australian Mining.

“Our PE100 pipe product, AcuTherm, is specifically manufactured to be used above ground. Because it’s white and not the standard black colour, it doesn’t absorb heat, keeping the material cool and the external layers UV (ultraviolet) stabilised.”

Since the company’s foundation in 2000, Acu-Tech’s piping systems and solutions have been used for mining applications such as slurry and tailings lines, above-ground pipelines, dewatering systems, process piping, leaching processes, remediation projects, and raw water supply.

Acu-Tech’s fittings are available in various sizes, configurations and specifications, all of which are

ACU-THERM WHITE PE PIPES ARE DESIGNED TO KEEP WATER OR SLURRY COOLER, LEADING TO LONGER SERVICE LIFE.

tailored to the unique needs of the mining industry.

The company has supplied PE piping solutions to a number of Australian mining projects, one being the Iron Bridge iron ore mine in Western Australia.

“As far as we are aware, it was Western Australia’s largest PE pipe project,” Ivan said.

“It required the manufacturing and delivery of a 270km-sized PE liner pipe, which was used as a corrosion liner within a high-pressure steel pipeline.”

Acu-Tech delivered the PE pipes to the project site through over 900 21m

ACU-TECH HAS SPECIALIST 21M-LONG EXTENDABLE TRAILERS TO TRANSPORT LONGER PIPES TO SITE.

AUSTRALIANMINING 18 NOVEMBER 2024

extendable truck and trailer movements within a compressed timeframe.

The project scope was completed on-time, demonstrating Acu-Tech’s versatility and ability to deliver a range of projects.

“We do a lot of large and small projects,” Donovan said. “For the large projects, we specifically have a project manager assigned to them to ensure the project runs smoothly.

“If the product is not delivered on time and the client already has installation crew on-site, it can increase labour costs and cause major disruptions.”

MINE WASTE MANAGEMENT

PE PIPES ARE EASY TO INSTALL WITH NO SPECIAL PREPARATION REQUIRED.

To accommodate larger projects, Acu-Tech has specialist 20m-long trailers to take longer pipes to site.

Having longer pipes can help save costs on welding.

The company maintains its competitive edge through its modern production and distribution facilities – one of which was recently opened in Brisbane.

Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, Acu-Tech’s new Brisbane pipe extrusion plant enables the company to produce high-quality pipelines up to 800mm in diameter.

The expansion also helps AcuTech meet the increasing demand for large-diameter pipes, and offers mining contractors in the eastern states

with quicker delivery times and more efficient service.

Above all, Acu-Tech always works towards continuous improvement.

“We’re the only pipe manufacturer with a registered training organisation and a NATA (National Association of Testing Authorities) accredited laboratory for weld testing and our

own transport fleet to get pipes to site,” Ivan said. “We also have an equipment hire division that provides equipment to contractors and asset owners … allowing us to be in full control of our service to the installation contractor.

“They are able to get everything from one source, making it easy for the project to be a success.” AM

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MINE WASTE MANAGEMENT

IMAGES: REGAL REXNORD

REGAL REXNORD’S GREEN BRAKE PADS CAN BE FOUND IN CONVEYORS, MINE WINDERS AND HOISTS.

HITTING THE BRAKES ON EMISSIONS TRADITIONAL BRAKE PADS CAN PUT A STRAIN ON THE ENVIRONMENT, BUT REGAL REXNORD HAS A SOLUTION THAT IS BEING IMPLEMENTED WORLDWIDE.

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ne could be forgiven for only considering tailings when thinking about mine waste, but there are numerous points throughout the mining value chain where waste can be found.

Luckily, modern mines have a myriad of options when it comes to these sources of waste, with manufacturers working to help miners step into a new era of sustainability.

One well-known source of waste in any industry are brake pads. While essential to safety, traditional brake pads are designed to wear down through friction that can release harmful materials and particulates into the environment.

That’s why Regal Rexnord, through its brake solutions arm Svendborg Brakes, developed an organic green brake pad, which aims to ensure not only functionality but overall sustainability.

Regal Rexnord national product manager Rex Sinclair said the innovation was born out of the company’s ‘green principles’.

“By focusing on energy-efficient products and systems, we aim to reduce the power required to deliver motion, thereby enhancing productivity while minimising environmental impact,” Sinclair told Australian Mining.

“This commitment not only addresses the growing demand for sustainable practices but also aligns with Regal Rexnord’s dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction.

“Through these efforts, Regal Rexnord strives to contribute to a more sustainable future, benefiting both its customers and the planet.”

The green brake pads were originally designed to meet the stringent environmental and performance requirements of wind turbines with a diverse range of friction qualities.

Once Regal Rexnord saw the benefits the green brake pads were able to achieve in turbines, they were developed for other technologies like mining conveyors.

Today, the green brake pads can be found in not only conveyors but mine winders, winches and hoists, as well as ball and sag mills.

“The development of Svendborg Brakes’ green brake pads was driven by the need to address environmental concerns associated with traditional brake pads, originally starting with wind turbines,” Sinclair said.

“Traditional brake pads often produce dust that can contaminate the environment and pose health risks to maintenance personnel.

“By creating brake pads made from non-asbestos organic materials, Svendborg Brakes aimed to reduce the environmental impact and enhance safety.”

Sinclair said the innovation was thanks to the company’s extensive research and development (R&D) capabilities, which includes an engineering team based in Newcastle, New South Wales.

“As a result of significant investment and accumulated knowledge, our

engineers have developed an ecofriendly material for our brake pads,” he said. “We have a full-time chemist specialising in brake pad compounds along with a test centre where all our products are tested and certified.”

With customers across the world, it was important to Regal Rexnord and Svendborg Brakes that the green brake pads be compliant with European registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals (REACH) legislation, which places responsibility directly on industry to manage chemical risks in products with the aim of protecting human health and the environment against harmful substances.

The brakes also stand up to the rigorous EU Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive, which restricts the use of 10 substances known to cause harm to health and the environment.

Adherence to these standards, decades of know-how and field testing from its full-scale test centres, and the ability to simulate individual applications based on customer needs, has put Regal Rexnord ahead of the curve when it comes to sustainable braking solutions.

“The green brake pads comply with REACH regulations, ensuring they are free from hazardous substances like mercury, chromium, and lead,” Sinclair said. “With mines looking more into green alternatives and enhanced safety, this ticks all the boxes.

“This commitment to green solutions underscores Svendborg Brakes’ dedication to sustainability and innovation in the brake industry.” AM

AUSTRALIANMINING 20 NOVEMBER 2024

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MINE WASTE MANAGEMENT

HEXAGON, SCANIA AND FIDENS BROUGHT BRAZIL’S FIRST REMOTELY OPERATED 8X4 MINING TRUCK ONLINE. AUSTRALIAN MINING LOOKS AT HOW THE COMPANIES MADE IT HAPPEN.

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hen the Samarco and Brumadinho dam disasters took place in 2015 and 2019, respectively, it signalled a need for change in the management of tailings dams.

In response to the incidents, the Brazilian Government elected to ban tailings dams built using the upstream method.

The construction of upstream tailings dams involves a dyke that continually expands upwards with the installation of raising lifts to accommodate waste as the tailings level rises.

On the other hand, downstream tailings dams are built on the dam wall away from the tailings pond, with the dykes built vertically on top of each other.

In light of the Brumadinho incident, the Brazilian Government mandated the decommissioning of all existing tailings dams by August 2021, which was later extended to February 2022.

The decision has led Brazilian mining companies to consider remotely operated vehicles that can access highrisk areas such as tailings dams without having a negative effect on the safety of workers and local communities.

Listening to this market need, Hexagon partnered with Scania and Fidens to create Brazil’s first ever remotely operated 8x4 mining truck.

The trailblazing partnership saw each company combine their technology, equipment and expertise.

Hexagon – a global leader in digital reality and autonomous mining solutions – brought its HARD-LINE TeleOp solution to the partnership.

TeleOp remotely operates any heavy machinery from a control station both on the surface and underground. This enhances safety by eliminating operator exposure to common mining hazards such as dust, flying rock, falls, diesel fumes, and noise, allowing the operator to comfortably control the equipment from a distance.

The system also minimises travel risks and increases traffic control, keeping workers safe and operations moving.

TeleOp can keep machines working even during shift changes and blasting cycles, increasing productivity.

Supported by a user-friendly and customisable interface that can be applied to any machine, TeleOp provides ease of use across all equipment brands, one being Scania, a transport solutions provider.

“Just over a year ago, our partners Hexagon and Fidens came with a proposal,” Scania business development director Marcelo Gallao said.

“We have developed a lot of trucks for decommissioning dams. It was then that we came to drafting the first idea of a tele-operated Scania truck.

IMAGES: HEXAGON

COMBINING INDUSTRY HEAVYWEIGHTS THE REMOTELY OPERATED SCANIA G 500 XT 8X4 MINING TRUCK HAS A TOTAL GROSS WEIGHT CAPACITY OF 60 TONNES.

THE HARD-LINE TELEOP SYSTEM ENABLES THE SAFE TELE-REMOTE OPERATION OF HEAVY MACHINERY FROM A CONTROL STATION.

“With a total gross weight capacity of 60 tonnes, the largest capacity in tele-operated mining trucks, the eight-by-four truck has two drive axles and a dual-front steering system.”

THE HARD-LINE TELEOP SYSTEM WAS APPLIED TO A SCANIA G 500 XT 8X4 MINING TRUCK IN JULY 2024.

AUSTRALIANMINING 22 NOVEMBER 2024

TeleOp was applied to a Scania G 500 XT 8x4 mining truck in July 2024, with the Fidens team sharing their mining expertise with Hexagon and Scania along the way.

“The new truck allows you to carry 50 per cent more cargo with the same investment in technology, the same operator and with practically the same operating costs, bringing around 30 per cent more productivity and more safety when performing services,” Fidens commercial director Thiago Frauches said.

Hexagon autonomous solutions – mining president Latin America Rodrigo Couto described the partnership as “a watershed moment for Brazilian mines”.

“We are shaping a new reality, demonstrating with our partners how technology can help mines be more productive and address the critical need for tailings dam decommissioning,” Couto said.

“Because TeleOp is adaptable to other truck models, this is just the beginning of what we know will be a highly impactful and positive transformation for the industry.” AM

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MINE WASTE MANAGEMENT

REVOLUTIONISING OIL SURFACE SEPARATION

U

nderground mines can be prone to poor air quality, with diesel particulates and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) posing risks to worker health and overall productivity.

Both surface and underground mines can also face problems of water being polluted by oil and diesel, potentially polluting rivers or groundwater as a result.

But what if VOCs could be mitigated and underground mines could be freed of the air pollution to which they are commonly exposed, and there would be an efficient way to address water contaminated with oil and diesel?

Enter Surfcleaner, which has developed patented surface separator technology to support the collection of hydrocarbons before they enter the air or end up in water.

The surface separator has three operations built into one system – collection, separation and discharge.

“Based on gravimetric separation, the Surfcleaner technology supports the separation of fluids due to density difference,” Surfcleaner chief executive officer Johnny Sajland told Australian Mining. “A flow of water, oil and/or diesel is collected at the centre of the system. With negative pressure, created by a propeller at the bottom of the system, an inlet flow is created at the centre of the unit.”

When fluid reaches the deflection discs, the fluid velocity decreases, and the separation takes place.

Hydrocarbons rise inside the Surfcleaner unit, with clean water exiting from the bottom. When the machine becomes full of hydrocarbons, the pollutants are automatically discharged into an external tank or floating barge.

The Surfcleaner machines, made up of the SCO 8000 and SCO 1000 models, are fully automated systems, with the SCO 1000 unit able to be operated from a mobile phone or tablet.

Internet of Things (IoT) enables operators to monitor the separation process in real-time, and data can be downloaded to support further analysis or create reports.

Sajland said Surfcleaner technology stands apart from what is available elsewhere on the market.

“The Surfcleaner technology completes three operations all within a single system,” he said.

THE SURFCLEANER AT WORK.

“This is achieved with high separation efficiency (up to 99.5 per cent) and extremely low power consumption, a combination we believe is unmatched by any other technology in the market.

“Additionally, our system is highly adaptable to demanding environments, proving less sensitive to sediment, sand particles and dust from drilling operations compared to alternatives like high-speed separators and filtration systems.”

Surfcleaner’s technology can remove oil layers as thin as 0.1 micrometre (μm), continuously ensuring a completely oil-free water surface. And with the SCO 1000 weighing in at less than 30kg, the machine is also easily portable, offering flexibility in emergency oil spill situations while maintaining high performance.

Surfcleaner can significantly improve working environments in underground mines, improving water quality, enhancing a mining company’s environmental performance and its social license to operate.

“Surfcleaner’s system effectively removes surface pollution and significantly reduces VOC emissions, improving air quality and the working environment,” Sajland said.

“In sites where the Surfcleaner technology has been installed, mine workers have noted a noticeable improvement in air quality, particularly in underground mines. This is due to the system continuously collecting and separating hydraulic oil and other contaminants from the water surface, preventing the evaporation of hydrocarbons into the air.”

SURFCLEANER IS A SWEDISH WATER TREATMENT SPECIALIST.

AUSTRALIANMINING 24 NOVEMBER 2024

The ability to generate data provides complete visibility of a Surfcleaner operation, with energy usage, the volume of oil collected, and the amount of water processed able to be monitored.

This can support sustainability reporting and operators’ compliance with water regulations.

Mandalay Resources, which uses the system at a gold mine in northern Sweden, has been a key beneficiary of Surfcleaner’s technology. In just five days, the company was able to recover 400 litres of oil from the pumping area where it was situated.

“This is a massive difference and is making the entire process of managing wastewater much easier ensuring we operate well within national mining industry regulations,” the foreman of Mandalay Resources Sweden’s mining construction division said.

Surfcleaner not only sees a market for its technology in underground mines, but also in metal processing applications such as smelters, as well as in power generation.

And given the company’s technology is proven in all these applications, Surfcleaner is ready to make a mark in Australia. The company aims to establish direct partnerships with Australian mining companies and distributors to further the technology’s reach.

“Local distributors will be instrumental in communicating the sustainability benefits of our technology to stakeholders, helping Surfcleaner position itself as a leader in the green technology space and achieve long-term growth,” Sajland said. AM

IMAGES: SURFCLEANER

AUSTRALIAN MINING SAT DOWN WITH SURFCLEANER TO DISCUSS THE COMPANY’S PATENTED SURFACE SEPARATOR TECHNOLOGY.

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MINE WASTE MANAGEMENT

IMAGES: THEJO AUSTRALIA

THE CRITICAL ROLE OF FILTRATION AUSTRALIAN MINING SAT DOWN WITH THEJO AUSTRALIA TO DISCUSS WASTE MANAGEMENT AND THE ROLE OF FILTRATION IN MINERAL PROCESSING.

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aste management is a crucial concern in the mining industry, especially when there is growing emphasis on environmental sustainability and stringent regulations.

Efficient disposal of waste, particularly in mineral processing plants, is more important than ever.

One major challenge in this sector is the effective separation of solids and liquids in slurry form, a core process in mineral processing.

Thejo Australia’s filtration division has a range of solutions to address this need, playing a key role in waste management across the industry.

Filtration in mineral processing

Pressure filtration is essential for solid– liquid separation in mineral processing plants, particularly in the final stages where valuable minerals are extracted from slurry.

The process involves removing water to concentrate the mineral product and treat the tailings, leading to reduced waste and more sustainable operations.

Thejo Australia has made a name for itself in this space by providing highquality filtration products tailored to the specific needs of each application.

These solutions not only enhance operational efficiency but also contribute significantly to environmental compliance.

THEJO AUSTRALIA FILTER PLATES ARE DESIGNED TO MAXIMISE SURFACE AREA, IMPROVING THE FILTRATION RATE.

Concentrate filtration

Thejo Australia specialises in concentrate filtration, a critical step that sees mineral slurry undergo filtration to remove water before further processing.

Using advanced materials and customised designs, Thejo Australia’s HIPO filtration products aim to ensure optimal performance while minimising product loss.

HIPO filtration parts, designed for pressure filter presses, are engineered to meet the specific requirements of each project, with efficiency and regulatory compliance a top priority.

The ability to remove water effectively from the concentrate improves the quality of the final product while reducing operational waste.

Tailings management

Tailings pose a significant environmental risk if not managed properly.

In the past, tailings were often disposed of in slurry form, a practice that has led to incidents of dam failures and water contamination.

These risks have driven countries such as Australia to introduce strict regulations mandating that tailings must be filtered before disposal.

Thejo Australia’s filtration solutions aim to ensure tailings are dewatered to a solid state, reducing the environmental footprint and allowing for the safe recycling of water back into the processing cycle.

THEJO AUSTRALIA HAS A RANGE OF FILTER PARTS ON OFFER TO MEET THE NEEDS OF ANY APPLICATION.

By offering advanced filtration products, Thejo Australia is committed to supporting mining companies in complying with these regulations.

HIPO solutions not only work to mitigate environmental risks but also conserve water, which is increasingly critical in arid regions.

Retrofit solutions

Mining companies are facing growing pressure to upgrade their filtration systems to meet modern environmental standards.

Thejo Australia has developed a comprehensive range of retrofit filtration spares under its HIPO brand, designed to integrate seamlessly with existing systems.

These high-performance components aim to optimise filtration processes, enhancing concentrate filtration and tailings management.

The company also undertakes retrofitting and re-engineering of filter presses to increase operational efficiency and render operation and maintenance services to its clients.

Thejo Australia’s filtration parts include: • rubber diaphragms that are essential for maintaining pressure in the filter chamber, enabling effective liquid release and solid–liquid separation • plate pack seals critical for preventing leaks, ensuring system integrity during the filtration process • filling shoes to facilitate uniform distribution of slurry across filter plates, ensuring efficient filtration • pinch valve sleeves for ensuring precise control of slurry, filtrate and air flow, boosting system efficiency

AUSTRALIANMINING 26 NOVEMBER 2024

• filter plates and grids, which are designed to maximise surface area, improving filtration rate and product quality • stainless steel frames that are durable and corrosion-resistant, ideal for harsh mining environments • rollers and scrapers to enhance system operation by reducing downtime and improving productivity.

Thejo Australia’s precisionengineered filtration parts not only extend the life of filtration systems but also help mining operations reduce waste and meet the required environmental standards.

Environmental compliance and sustainability

Stringent environmental regulations now mandate the filtration of tailings and the reuse of water in many regions.

This shift aims to prevent environmental damage, conserve resources, and reduce the risk of catastrophic tailings dam failures.

Thejo Australia’s filtration solutions are designed to help mining companies meet these legal requirements while maintaining high levels of operational efficiency.

Waste management is an integral part of modern mining, and Thejo Australia is determined to be at the forefront of providing filtration solutions that enhance both efficiency and sustainability.

By minimising waste, conserving water, and ensuring compliance with strict regulations, Thejo Australia is helping its clients stay ahead in a competitive and increasingly ecoconscious industry. AM

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MINE WASTE MANAGEMENT

REVVING UP SUSTAINABILITY A NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH A LEADING TEXTILE WASTE RECYCLING COMPANY IS GIVING MECHANIX WEAR’S OLD GLOVES A NEW PURPOSE.

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to create RevUp, a recycling program that extends the lifecycle of the gloves.

The initiative is especially appealing to Mechanix Wear commercial account manager – western region Ashley Rozze, who has a background working in the waste industry.

“We have partnerships within the retail sector where our gloves have been a part of UPPAREL’s recycling process for over 12 months,” Rozze told Australian Mining.

“RevUp is our exciting new initiative.

Here, we’ve looked at consumption rates of our gloves to understand the impact we have on landfill.

“We anticipate for just one of our end users, in just one style of glove, we will save over four tonnes of waste from landfill based on their current consumption.”

Mechanix Wear conducted extensive research into various Australian

recycling programs to find its perfect match.

“Mechanix was adamant it needed a program that was transparent and easy to implement,” Rozze said. “This led us to UPPAREL, which has shown creativity and innovation in how it uses the waste.”

When Mechanix Wear gloves arrive at UPPAREL’s facility, they are sorted into two groups: gloves that can be reused and gloves that can be recycled.

The gloves that can be reused are circulated through UPPAREL’s 450 charity partners to find a new home, and the recyclable gloves are converted into various types of products.

IMAGES: MECHANIX WEAR

ince its foundation over 30 years ago, Mechanix Wear has manufactured its gloves to protect the hands of heavy industry workers while withstanding tough environmental conditions.

But like any piece of personal protective equipment (PPE), when the gloves reach the end of their lifespan, they are replaced and the old material is discarded.

However, the correct disposal of such material isn’t always a clear process, meaning millions of tonnes of textiles end up in landfill each year, with PPE from all industries acting as a major contributor.

To help prevent its old gloves from ending up in landfill, Mechanix Wear has partnered with Melbourne-based garment recycling facility UPPAREL

MECHANIX WEAR COLLECTS ITS USED GLOVES SO THEY CAN BE RECYCLED.

MECHANIX WEAR GLOVES CAN BE RECYCLED INTO ‘FLUFFUP’, WHICH IS USED IN PET BEDS AND CUSHIONS.

AUSTRALIANMINING 28 NOVEMBER 2024

MINE WASTE MANAGEMENT

THE REVUP PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN MECHANIX WEAR AND UPPAREL COMMENCED IN AUGUST 2024.

“The gloves might be shredded to make Fluff UP, which is used to fill things like soft toys, beds or cushions,” UPPAREL partnerships manager Riley Aickin told Australian Mining.

“They could also be used to make UPtex, a material from UPPAREL that is made entirely from recycled textiles. UPtex can be used to make slippers, desk mats, furniture – the possibilities are endless.”

UPPAREL also recycles material to create FillUP, a material that can be utilised to replace polyurethane foam commonly found in couch cushions and plush toys.

“Polyurethane foam can sometimes be recycled, but is quite difficult to recycle,” Aickin said. “FillUP is an easily recyclable replacement for that.”

The RevUp program follows a four-step, closed loop process.

This begins with the user wearing Mechanix Wear gloves.

Prioritising durability and efficiency, Mechanix Wear gloves have been created to withstand the tough conditions of the mining industry, allowing the user to get the most out of every pair.

Once the gloves have reached the end of their life, Mechanix Wear utilises

an easy and accessible reverse logistics process to collect the used gloves so they can be recycled.

The gloves are then sorted and processed through UPPAREL’s advanced recycling and upcycling techniques.

The facility’s revitalisation process turns the waste material from the gloves into valuable new resources, giving the material a second life.

The revitalised materials are then turned into new products or raw materials for future use, reducing the need to create new resources, thus reducing environmental impact.

“RevUp stands out in the Australian mining sector by offering an innovative approach to PPE waste management alongside its trusted functional protection from Mechanix Wear gloves,” Rozze said.

“We have simplified the collection process, making it easy for mining operations to participate. Each site will have different challenges, which is why this program can be tailored to suit what the end user needs.

“The program acts as a single collection point for all Mechanix Wear gloves – even when covered in grime or oil.”

Since launching at the Queensland Mining Industry Health & Safety Conference in August, RevUp has set the mining industry abuzz.

INTRODUCING THE ALL NEW

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“When we talk about the RevUp initiative, people genuinely seem really excited about it, indicating the need on site for an easy and sustainable recycling solution,” Rozze said.

Currently, RevUp upcycles all Mechanix Wear gloves, with the exception of disposables due to their thin nature. Excitingly, Mechanix Wear is actively exploring innovative solutions to make it possible for every glove, including disposables, to undergo the RevUp process.

RevUp is just one example of Mechanix Wear’s ongoing commitment to environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives.

“We are always looking for ways to increase recycled elements within our manufacturing process and ways to consider our impact on the world,” Rozze said.

“What has become evident is there will be times where the materials within our gloves cannot be altered with current technologies, and hence it’s important to ensure the end of life of our gloves is considered, regardless of the material used.

“Without compromising on glove quality, RevUp prevents our gloves from ending up in landfill, enabling us to genuinely work towards minimising the impact of waste within Australia.” AM

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AUSTRALIANMINING 29 NOVEMBER 2024

ON & ON ON & ON ON & ON ON & ON ON & ON IMAGE: CIRCULAR MINE

MINE WASTE MANAGEMENT

MINE TAILINGS CAN NOW BE REPURPOSED IN NEW, INNOVATIVE WAYS.

A CIRCULAR APPROACH TO ACHIEVING ZERO TAILINGS CIRCULAR MINE IS TAKING A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO AUSTRALIA’S MINE WASTE MANAGEMENT CHALLENGES.

W

aste management may be an inevitable final step in the mining chain, but it doesn’t have to be an afterthought.

With so many of Australia’s mines hungry for greener practices, there are those who believe mine waste is the key to positioning the mining industry at the centre of a circular economy.

Circular Mine, an Australian company made up of a consortium of international businesses, is one such believer, with a mission to reduce mine waste to zero.

With the collaboration boasting an extensive team of engineers, technicians, researchers and laboratory facilities with experience in water, tailings and recycling, the company first got its start in the 2020 BHP tailings challenge when it beat out 170 companies to become one of nine successful businesses to launch into the mining sector.

Circular Mine managing director Michael Ingwersen said the company has been working hard to make the most out of the resources miners unearth in Australia and across the globe.

“Circular Mine is all about environmental, social and governance (ESG) responsibility to eliminate mine waste and make the most out of the resources we mine,” Ingwersen told Australian Mining.

“We view mine waste such as tailings as a resource for other industries that can transform mine waste into sustainable resources such as clean soil, construction and industrial materials.

“We have global partners in a range of industries, including research and development institutions and organisations such as Amira Global who focus on improving the efficiency, productivity, and sustainability of mining operations by linking the industry with solution providers.”

Amira Global is an independent global not-for-profit organisation representing members from the resources industry that seeks to enhance, sustain and deliver transformational research and development across the mining value chain.

Circular Mine and Amira Global, together with mining and technology companies, are now aiming to lead the charge through the Amira P1342 project – dedicated to fast-tracking the

full re-use of mine tailings and refinery residue on a commercial scale.

The project scope includes the development of a support tool for miners to make sustainable mine waste decisions, as well as a repository of practical guidelines that can be applied to any mining operation.

The aim is to address the technical, collaborative, environmental, regulatory, community and legislative aspects of the mine waste management process.

Circular Mine recently explored this approach at one Australian mine where it discovered that, once decontaminated, approximately 40 per cent of the mine’s tailings could be used as a geopolymer construction material, with the rest able to be used as a topsoil dressing product.

Ingwersen said these kinds of findings have huge potential for the industry and the environment, as geopolymer construction materials take 70 per cent less carbon emissions to make than traditional construction materials.

“The question we ask ourselves is, ‘How do we make the most out of resources?’,” he said. “They’ve already been mined, they’ve been processed, now we want to turn what’s left into products that can benefit mankind.”

AUSTRALIANMINING 30 NOVEMBER 2024

For mine waste that isn’t able to be re-purposed into a new product, Circular Mine can still help operators take a greener approach.

“While our mission is to re-use 100 per cent of mine waste, there are significant opportunities for carbon capture where offsite repurposing potential is limited,” Ingwersen said.

“On a recent project at a mine site, we were able to demonstrate at lab scale that we could capture 13 kilograms of CO2 from a tonne of mine waste, which is a significant amount of carbon.”

While many mine waste management approaches look at extracting certain re-sellable minerals from the rest, Ingwersen said Circular Mine differentiates itself by looking at the bigger picture.

“It’s important to look broadly and bring together different solutions from different industries to find innovative uses for mine waste, and focus on the bulk, not just the one-percenters,” he said.

“It’s a collaborative approach between Circular Mine, our global partners, organisations like Amira Global and Austmine and the mines themselves that will help us eliminate waste.

“Together, we are making zero mine waste a reality.” AM

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ENDURON® HPGR Copyright © 2023 Weir Minerals Australia Ltd. All rights reserved.

COMMODITY SPOTLIGHT

IMAGE: LARVOTTO RESOURCES

UNDERGROUND AT LARVOTTO’S HILLGROVE GOLDANTIMONY PROJECT IN NSW.

DIGGING DEEP FOR ANTIMONY AGAINST A BACKDROP OF SURGING PRICES, AUSTRALIA IS REALISING ITS PLACE AS A FUTURE ANTIMONY EXPORT PARTNER.

A

ntimony has surged in interest across Australian investment portfolios, simultaneously driven by rising prices and the quality of local antimony exploration assets.

A key material for solar panels, antimony is also a central input for high-tech and defence applications.

The critical mineral is also seen as a promising anode material for lithiumion batteries.

While China dominates antimony production, making up 48 per cent of global output according to the latest United States Geological Survey, the country recently placed export controls on six antimony products, including antimony ore and antimony oxide.

This sent prices above $US25,000 per tonne (t), which is sure to impact the US, one of the world’s key antimony buyers.

The US, which uses antimony in a variety of defence products such as ammunition, nuclear weapons and night-vision goggles, consumed 22,000t of the critical mineral in 2023.

China accounted for 63 per cent of these imports.

The antimony market’s reliance on China highlights the importance of alternative supply pathways, an area in which Australia is looming as a potential partner.

So which companies are advancing antimony projects in Australia?

Southern Cross Gold (ASX: SXG) Sunday Creek, one of Australia’s most significant gold discoveries in recent times, doubles as an antimony project.

Southern Cross Gold has completed more than 130 drill holes for 58,494m at Sunday Creek since late 2020, with three high-grade mineralised domains delineated at the project: Rising Sun, Apollo and Golden Dyke.

The company made a new discovery at the Victorian asset in early September, with a 135m-wide goldantimony zone identified below the Golden Dyke mine.

Drill hole SDDSC130 intersected seven high-grade veins over a 230m downhole interval, with visible gold discovered 10 times and nine assays returning more than 20 grams per tonne (g/t) gold, with up to 124g/t gold recorded.

The drill hole also returned 10 assays of more than five per cent

antimony, with a peak grade of 31.5 per cent antimony.

“The scale of the Sunday Creek goldantimony system continues to grow impressively,” Southern Cross Gold managing director Michael Hudson said. “This new discovery is located 260m and 600m west, respectively, of the Rising Sun and Apollo mineralised bodies.

“The expanding Sunday Creek system coupled with the 60km of diamond drilling planned over the next year means we are well on our way to meet our aim to double the size of the Sunday Creek exploration target.”

Larvotto Resources (ASX: LRV)

Larvotto’s Hillgrove antimony deposit is the largest in Australia and one of the 10 largest in the world.

The New South Wales project boasts a maiden ore reserve of 606,000 ounces of gold equivalent (AuEq) at six grams per tonne AuEq. Larvotto has forecast $73 million of capital expenditure to develop an operation capable of producing 80,000 ounces (oz) AuEq per year, comprising 41,100oz of gold and 5400t of antimony.

AUSTRALIANMINING 32 NOVEMBER 2024

A pre-feasibility study (PFS) demonstrated Hillgrove’s economics at spot and base gold and antimony prices, with the spot estimation highlighting the project’s profitability at current record gold and antimony prices.

Hillgrove has a post-tax net-present value (NPV) of $157 million at base prices ($US2000/oz for gold and $US15,000/t for antimony) and a posttax NPV of $383 million at spot prices ($US2350/oz for gold and $US23,000/t for antimony).

Following the completion of a definitive feasibility study and a positive final investment decision, Larvotto is targeting first ore by early 2026.

“All financial and technical objectives have been met and the capital cost of the development is low compared to a greenfields development, with much of the required surface and underground infrastructure already in place,” Larvotto managing director Ron Heeks said when the PFS was released.

“Larvotto will be bringing Australia’s largest antimony project online in a rising antimony market, driven by the increasing use of antimony in solar panel production whilst production from other global producers becomes stressed.”

COMMODITY SPOTLIGHT

ILTANI RESOURCES RECENTLY CONFIRMED THE PRESENCE OF SIGNIFICANT ANTIMONY MINERALISATION ACROSS TWO KEY VEIN SYSTEMS AT ITS ANTIMONY REWARD PROJECT.

IMAGE: KALAMAZOO RESOURCES

Iltani is advancing two unique critical minerals projects: the Orient project is Australia’s largest silver-indium deposit, while the Antimony Reward project is being re-examined for its antimony potential.

Orient and Antimony Reward form part of the Herberton project in Queensland and are located a stone’s throw from each other.

A recent mapping and sampling program at the Antimony Reward project confirmed the presence of significant antimony mineralisation across two key vein systems.

A total of 19 samples were taken from two vein systems. The first system produced an assay result of 16.2 per cent antimony, with a maximum result of 46.5 per cent, while the second returned an average of 10.9 per cent antimony, peaking at 17.7 per cent.

Iltani has designed a 15-to-20-hole (1500m) reverse circulation drilling program at Antimony Reward. The company hopes to commence this campaign by early October.

IMAGE: ILTANI RESOURCES

Iltani Resources (ASX: ILT)

“We are extremely excited about the potential of the Antimony Reward system to deliver a high-grade resource and, amid the antimony price surge, there is not a better time to be doing this work,” Iltani managing director Donald Garner said.

“The antimony mineralisation sampled … to date contains exceptionally low arsenic. Arsenic is a key penalty element with regards to antimony concentrates, so this is another good sign.”

Kalamazoo Resources (ASX: KZR)

DRILLING TAKES PLACE AT KALAMAZOO RESOURCES’ SOUTH MUCKLEFORD PROJECT IN VICTORIA.

Kalamazoo holds a promising exploration portfolio in the Victorian Goldfields, where the South Muckleford project holds the potential to produce antimony in the coming years.

The explorer believes South Muckleford is analogous to Australia’s only antimony producer, the Costerfield mine, and the revered low-cost Fosterville gold mine.

Field programs in 2020–21 identified historic mine workings coincident with gold-antimony mineralisation. Gold production at Fentiman’s Reef in the late 1800s was associated with high-grade antimony lodes containing up to 42 per cent antimony.

After conducting a review of South Muckleford, Kalamazoo is carrying out a follow-up program of 3D structural geology modelling as it aims to identify extensional and potentially deeper targets along the project’s defined reef structures.

Kalamazoo chief executive officer Luke Mortimer detailed the opportunity at hand.

AUSTRALIANMINING 33 NOVEMBER 2024

“The central Victorian Goldfields are emerging as a significant high-grade goldantimony geological province,” he said.

“This is a potentially significant development for Kalamazoo, which holds a substantial 2000-square-kilometre exploration package in the region.”

Trigg Minerals (ASX: TMG)

Trigg recently acquired a pair of highgrade antimony assets in NSW, one of which is located adjacent to Larvotto’s Hillgrove project.

The Taylors Arm project contains the Testers mine, which boasts massive stibnite veins of up to 63 per cent in antimony grade, which Trigg believes is Australia’s highest recorded antimony grade.

The Swallows Nest mine extracted antimony from 1940 to 1955 at 40 per cent antimony, with recent rock sampling identifying grades as high as 31.4 per cent antimony.

Overall, the Taylors Arm tenement includes 71 historical workings across six mineral camps with a widespread occurrence of stibnite, the primary ore for antimony. Trigg believes the project could host antimony mineralisation or a gold-antimony association similar to the Hillgrove project. There is also the potential for polymetallic deposits.

Trigg recently commenced a maiden exploration program at Taylors Arm, with the company engaging Dirt Exploration’s Neil Pendock to conduct remote and geophysical surveying.

The company also acquired the Spartan antimony project in its acquisition, which borders Larvotto’s Hillgrove project. Spartan covers part of the Hillgrove fault. AM

CRITICAL MINERALS

IMAGE: ALEX CIMBAL/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

THE FEDERATION MINE IS LOCATED NEAR THE TOWN OF COBAR, NSW.

FUELLING THE CRITICAL MINERALS REVOLUTION AURELIA METALS’ FEDERATION CRITICAL MINERALS MINE IS OFFICIALLY UP AND RUNNING IN NSW.

I IMAGES: NSW GOVERNMENT

t’s not often that a new critical minerals mine opens its doors in Australia.

While the country has upwards of 80 projects in the development pipeline at any one time, the timeline from exploration to production is often a long one.

So, when mining starts at a project, it’s a cause for celebration.

Such was the case in September when Aurelia Metals’ Federation mine was officially opened by New South Wales Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos.

Situated near the historic mining town of Cobar in central NSW, Federation is set to produce up to

600,000 tonnes (t) of zinc, gold, copper and lead per year.

Each of these commodities will be essential in the energy transition.

Copper will be used in new energy technologies and electrification, gold will find a home in circuitry components and solar panel wiring, zinc will be used to galvanise the steel in electric vehicles, and lead plays a key role in renewable batteries.

The Federation mine is also contributing directly to the NSW community, generating an estimated $74 million in royalties over its life and employing over 4000 people.

This contribution has been dubbed “remarkable” by Aurelia chief executive

officer (CEO) Bryan Quinn, especially considering the mine was first discovered in 2019.

“The short turnaround is testament to the excellent collaboration of NSW Government agencies, the Aurelia team and strong support from the community,” Quinn said.

“It puts in place a strong foundation for the future success of the Federation mine and high-quality jobs and opportunities in the region.”

Since its discovery in April 2019, the Federation deposit has developed at a rate rarely seen in the industry.

Aurelia moved swiftly to mobilise teams to explore and drill the site, while working hard behind the scenes

THE FEDERATION PROJECT WAS FIRST DISCOVERED IN APRIL 2019.

AUSTRALIANMINING 34 NOVEMBER 2024

to evaluate the discovery and progress permit applications.

A mineral resource estimate was released in February 2021, totalling 3.5 million tonnes and a further estimate was released in July that same year detailing a 45 per cent growth in mineral tonnage.

Further drilling at the site confirmed early on that Aurelia had a winner on its hands, and, on June 30 2022, Federation’s mineral resource estimate hit five million tonnes.

In an October 2022 feasibility study for Federation, former Aurelia managing director and CEO Dan Clifford was thrilled with the site’s progress.

“Federation is one of the great discoveries of recent decades in the Cobar Basin – a very high-grade polymetallic deposit that … remains open in multiple directions with further potential to extend,” he said.

“Given this potential, it is important to note that the Federation feasibility study represents just the starting physical and economic picture of the development of Federation.”

In March 2023, Federation received development consent from the NSW Department of Planning and Environment, a key step in the mine’s journey to production.

With ore to be processed at Aurelia’s nearby Peak and Hera mines, and most activities occurring underground, Federation’s small disturbance footprint was a key part of receiving approvals.

“Aurelia would like to thank the NSW Government and regulatory agencies for working with us to approve the Federation project in such a short timeframe,” former Aurelia interim

IMAGE: ZELENSKAYA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

CRITICAL MINERALS

COPPER HAS AN IMPORTANT ROLE TO PLAY IN THE WORLD’S DECARBONISATION.

CEO and current chief development and technical officer, Andrew Graham, said at the time.

“I would also like to thank our local stakeholders for the constructive conversations we had during the application process.

“Finally, my sincere appreciation goes to the Aurelia team who worked tirelessly to design our Federation project in a way that minimises its disturbance footprint and extends the lives of our existing operations.”

With approvals firmly in hand, the Aurelia team took the opportunity to update the project’s scope, timeline and capital cost estimate.

This led them to discovering an improved path to first production, including updating the mine design to deliver earlier stope ore production, and trucking the initial ore to Aurelia’s Peak processing plant to produce separate zinc and lead concentrate products.

THE MINE WAS OPENED BY NSW MINISTER FOR NATURAL RESOURCES COURTNEY HOUSSOS IN SEPTEMBER.

When Quinn came on board as CEO in June 2023, Federation was well on its way to production.

“I am very excited to join Aurelia Metals at such an important time in its growth path and to lead an Australian listed mining company,” Quinn said upon his appointment.

It was full steam ahead from then on.

In August 2023, decline development commenced at the site, and in October, the NSW Government granted Aurelia Federation’s mining lease.

Despite wet weather hitting New South Wales in late 2023 and early 2024, the Aurelia team remained focused on its goal: getting Federation mining ready.

And their hard work paid off when, on September 11, Federation was officially opened.

“Congratulations to the investors, management and workforce of Aurelia Metals’ Federation mine as well as the far western NSW community,” Houssos said on opening the mine.

“The Federation mine will bring immediate employment and investment benefits to Cobar, but it will also support more jobs and investment through supply chains and towns right across the far west.

“The critical minerals and hightech metals from mines across NSW will help build the products for a clean energy future. With deposits of 21 of the 31 nationally identified critical and strategic minerals, NSW is well placed to be a global leader.”

Less than a week after opening, Aurelia fired the first stope ore at Federation on September 17.

“The safe commencement of underground stoping at our Federation mine was delivered in-line with our previous commitments to shareholders and represents another milestone achievement for the business,” Quinn said.

“Our underground focus now continues to be on mine development to advance the decline and open up additional working areas to ramp up production.”

Federation is now ramping up to an initial production target of four million tonnes of ore, comprising approximately 328,000t of zinc, 192,000t of lead, 12,000t of copper, 116,000 ounces of gold and 772,000 ounces of silver, solidifying its potential as key supplier to the energy transition.

With the Federation mine up and running, Aurelia will turn its attention to the wider Cobar Basin – and the potential critical minerals hiding beneath the surface. AM

FEDERATION IS SET TO PRODUCE UP TO 600,000 TONNES OF ZINC, GOLD, COPPER AND LEAD PER YEAR.

AUSTRALIANMINING 35 NOVEMBER 2024

BUILT TO WORK

THE PC3400-11M0 EXCAVATOR DELIVERS A 31 PER CENT INCREASE IN PRODUCTION VALUE.

AS GLOBAL DEMAND FOR CRITICAL MINERALS INCREASES, SO TOO DOES THE NEED FOR MINING DUMP TRUCKS AND EXCAVATORS TO BE MORE PRODUCTIVE AND EFFICIENT.

H

aving been involved in the mining industry since 1917, Komatsu is well accustomed to evolving with the times.

And with the world calling out for an increase in critical minerals supply, Komatsu has built its PC3400-11M0 excavator to help meet this demand.

Delivering a 31 per cent increase in production volume and a 22 per cent increase in fuel efficiency over the previous model in the range, Komatsu Australia national product manager – mining Michael Hall said the model was needed to fill a gap in the larger mining excavator line-up.

“We were missing a model in our 300-tonne mining class between the PC3000 and the PC4000,” Hall said.

“The PC3400-11M0 completes the range, building on Komatsu’s extensive experience delivering front-line excavators and giving mine sites another option for optimum truck matching.”

A boost in production volume

Hall said one of the biggest priorities in mining operations is to fill each dump truck as quickly as possible.

“The PC3400-11M0 achieves this with a massive 31 per cent increase in production volume thanks to key improvements from the previous model in the range – increased bucket capacity, and increased engine output,” Hall said.

The previous model, the PC3000-6, has a bucket capacity of up to 15–16m3.

By increasing the bucket capacity by 20 per cent to 18–19m3, Hall said the number of bucket passes is significantly reduced, which in turn reduces the loading time per dump truck by 25 per cent.

“Our team is always focused on how we can help improve productivity and reduce downtime on mine sites through machine improvements and upgrades, especially as demand grows as the industry looks towards energy-saving solutions,” Hall said.

“We saw a need for larger capacity on this range of excavator, and that’s what we delivered.”

Another key production volume improvement is the increased engine output.

“We had to ensure cycle time was less than the previous model, but the

new model also needed to handle the increased bucket capacity,” Hall said.

“We added a larger 1193-kilowatt Cummins engine which increased the engine output, and also reduced cycle time, which is another big plus.”

Improved fuel efficiency

A 22 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency for the PC3400-11M0 compared to the previous model is due to design mechanical improvements.

“This model has a variable speed hydraulic drive fan control – an advanced cooling system that improves machine efficiency, performance, and reliability by dynamically adjusting fan speed to meet real-time cooling demands,” Hall said.

“This reduces fuel consumption for the fan drive and improves fuel efficiency.

“Another improvement is a newly developed Komatsu main valve. The valve on this model is the largest valve in the Komatsu series, but we’ve managed to not let the increase in size and weight impact the fuel efficiency.”

The Komatsu team is ready to support customers who are looking to add the PC3400-11M0 to their fleet.

“The service, sales and parts teams can provide a variety of support before and after machine delivery to keep them efficient and minimise operational costs as they continue to focus on meeting the demand for critical minerals,” Hall said. AM

KOMATSU’S PC3400-11M0 EXCAVATOR.

AUSTRALIANMINING 36 NOVEMBER 2024

IMAGES: KOMATSU

EQUIPMENT

LIGHTING

A SPOTLIGHT ON INNOVATION

A

FOR MANY OF THE CHALLENGES FACED IN MINING, ENERGIZER HAS A RANGE OF SOLUTIONS TO LIGHT THE WAY. to the hazard of explosive atmospheres in workplaces like mining due to flammable gases or combustible dust.

The ATEX range features two flashlights with either AA or D battery capabilities, and a headlight to use for close-up work.

With global certification for industrial use, ingress protection of IP67 for dust and water, shatterproof lenses, and anti-static push-button switches, the ATEX range has made a name for itself in the industry.

“A huge benefit of the ATEX range is that it’s intrinsically safe and suitable for Zone 0, 1 and 2, based on international explosive hazard standards,” Daw said. “That means the range is safe even in areas where explosive gas is present continuously for long periods.”

Having a safe, portable lighting solution in a combustible gas environment is a huge benefit to those working in underground conditions such a coal mining. But even for non-gaseous environments, Energizer has a lighting range that is cost effective without compromising on power.

The Energizer Pro Series range features energy efficient hybrid power technology that packs a punch with 12 times brighter output than a standard LED at 500 and 650 lumens.

With headlights, handhelds, and work lights on offer, the Pro Series has been developed specifically with industry in mind.

“There’s been research done in both Australia and France around the lights that professionals are looking for, and the Pro Series has been developed from those insights,” Daw said.

The entire Pro Series range is waterproof, dustproof, shatterproof, and comes in plastic-free packaging for a greener footprint.

The whole series also boasts hybrid charge technology, meaning the lights can be easily recharged or run on batteries supplied with the kit.

Daw said the series has been so successful the company has engineered an expansion to the range.

“We’ll be adding a new heavy-duty spotlight to the series by early next year,” he said. “It has a 1150 lumen output and enjoys all the benefits of the other products in the Pro Series – strength, durability, and reliability.

“The spotlight can easily be made hands-free and comes with three-metre impact resistance.”

Innovation is one area where Energizer shines. While both the Pro Series and ATEX ranges feature headlights, the company saw the dynamic applications its lights were involved in and decided to create even more options.

Energizer recently released six new headlamps ranging from 250 lumens to 575 lumens. Each comes in distinct colourways, which distinguishes their varying features making them suitable for a range of conditions.

The HDL 10, 20 and 30 headlamps increase in capability as the range continues, with the HDL 30 headlamp featuring dimmable switching on red, green or white LED modes.

The HDL 40, 50 and 60 headlamps also increase in capabilities, with the HDL 60 headlamp featuring advanced dimming control across seven modes including high, medium, low, dimming, red, red flashing and green light.

IMAGES: ENERGIZER

ustralia’s mines are hardly everyday places.

They face heavy-duty challenges that require heavy-duty solutions.

And these solutions, whether it be a giant piece of equipment or specialised software, aren’t available at just any corner store.

With all the research and development that goes into creating heavy-duty solutions, they need to be manufactured by those who know what they’re doing.

As one of world’s largest manufacturers of primary batteries and portable lighting products, Energizer understands it’s critical to get its heavyduty solutions into the right hands.

That’s why Energizer developed a dedicated website to showcase products specially created for those working in heavy industry.

One key feature of the website is the ‘Tech Library’, which offers visitors a deeper dive into Energizer’s industryfocused products through an extensive archive of technical information.

“We sell hundreds of thousands of lights into Australian mines every year,” Energizer national account manager Steve Daw told Australian Mining.

“The professional website and Tech Library helps our customers gain an understanding of what lighting or battery solution will be best suited to meet their challenge, whether it be a smaller, cost-effective handheld, or a high-spec, top-of-the-range headlight.”

One such light range featured on the Energizer professional website is ATEX. The name, which brings together ‘ATmosphere’ and ‘EXplosive’, refers

THE PRO SERIES MEDIUM HANDHELD.

AUSTRALIANMINING 38 NOVEMBER 2024

THE DOLPHIN LED LANTERN.

The key differentiator of the HDL 40, 50 and 60 headlamps from the rest of the HDL range is that they are completely waterproof.

“The range was launched last year,” Daw said. “The specs increased dramatically but the cost stayed the same.

“These are massively popular in mining thanks to their cost effectiveness, which is essential

LIGHTING

when operators are purchasing 4000– 5000 or so at a time.”

Another range that has become a mining industry staple comes from Energizer Holdings’ Eveready brand.

The iconic Eveready Dolphin range of five torches – named for their specially designed waterproof and floating capabilities – first appeared in 1967 and have since sold over 20 million torches into Australia.

ENERGIZER’S NEW RANGE OF HEADLAMPS ARE SUITED TO A RANGE OF CONDITIONS.

THE HDL 40, 50 AND 60 HEADLAMPS ARE ALL WATERPROOF.

The Dolphin Lantern generates 235 lumens with a 250m beam distance. Its engineered LED technology makes it up to 12 times brighter than standard LEDs and can operate for up to 75 hours with a single six-volt battery.

The Lantern also comes in a compact version, which boasts all the features of the original lantern without compromising on space.

The Mini Torch is an easy-to-use handheld that gives off 125 lumens and is up to five times brighter than regular LEDs. Like the rest of the range, the Mini features a shatterproof lens that makes it perfect for demanding conditions.

The 2-in-1 Light is named for its ability to provide both directional and area lighting, making it the pick of the range for emergency illumination.

The Pico is the smallest light in the range and is easily clipped onto a belt loop or backpack for lighting on the go. This tiny but mighty light isn’t to be underestimated; the Pico can deliver hours of light with minimal footprint.

Daw said the Dolphin torches started out as a fairly rudimentary light and have now become a mining industry mainstay.

AUSTRALIANMINING 39 NOVEMBER 2024

“The Dolphin range was invented in Australia, for Australia, and has been one of the most successful lights across the Energizer offering,” he said. “It all comes back to our drive to innovate based on the feedback of our customers.

“We’re now on our seventh version of the Dolphin lantern, and it has only continued to get better over the years.”

History is important to Energizer.

Having originally invented the first flashlight in the 1890s, the company’s legacy is one of innovation. But producing new technologies also means communicating to the world how those innovations can bring new and evolving benefits.

That’s why the company goes to lengths to ensure its distributors are familiar with not only the company’s history, but the complexities of its range and all it has to offer.

Daw said this relationship with distributors helps Energizer support the mining industry with any portable lighting challenge it may encounter.

“We need to ensure Australia’s mines are getting solutions to help them stay safe and efficient,” he said. “We’re committed to supporting the industry for another century as our innovations continue to unfold.” AM

MINE TECHNOLOGY

PARTNERSHIPS BASED ON SAFETY KOR IS WORKING WITH GEROTTO TO PROVIDE ROBOTIC SOLUTIONS THAT IMPROVE SAFETY AND REDUCE RISK IN THE AUSTRALIAN MINING INDUSTRY.

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Gerotto, an Italian company that recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, has built a reputation for focusing on products that remove operators from dangerous situations.

“We recognise the push towards safety in the industrial and mining markets,” Fairbairn said. “Gerotto’s products align perfectly with that focus, helping us meet the demand for safer, more efficient solutions.”

KOR has traditionally specialised in industrial vacuum, hydro excavation and drain cleaning equipment where safety risks can be high. By adding Gerotto’s robots to its offering, KOR is extending its commitment to reducing risks for workers.

Fairbairn said the partnership was a natural fit.

“KOR initially went to market with Cappellotto (Italian) vacuum trucks, so introducing Gerotto’s robots felt like a seamless progression given their Italian heritage and their focus on safety aligns perfectly with what we’re trying to achieve,” he said.

KOR offers two key products in Gerotto’s range: the Lombrico S and the Gatto.

The Lombrico S is a remotely operated robot that works alongside KOR’s Cappellotto vacuum trucks. It can enter confined spaces and perform cleaning tasks inside dangerous areas without requiring manual labour.

“The Lombrico is remotely operated, and it’s versatile enough to adapt to various confined space applications,” Fairbairn said.

IMAGES: KOR EQUIPMENT SOLUTIONS

OR Equipment Solutions has proven its commitment to enhancing workplace safety by securing a license to distribute Gerotto robots in Australia and New Zealand.

These machines are designed to complete remediation, excavation and cleaning tasks in hazardous, confined areas, providing a safer alternative to manual labour.

KOR Gerotto product specialist Troy Fairbairn spoke to Australian Mining about how the decision to partner with Gerotto was driven by a growing emphasis on safety in the industrial market, especially within mining.

THE DECISION FOR KOR TO PARTNER WITH GEROTTO WAS DRIVEN BY A GROWING EMPHASIS ON SAFETY.

AUSTRALIANMINING 40 NOVEMBER 2024

“We have uncovered so many different applications and circumstances where this robot can provide safer solutions to get the work done.”

The Gatto, which is a small excavator that is controlled remotely, can be equipped with different attachments, such as buckets, different auger systems and rock breakers, depending on the job.

Like the Lombrico, it is designed to keep operators out of dangerous environments, making tasks like cleaning tanks, refineries, culvert cleaning and bio-gas plants safer and more efficient.

“The focus for us is doing the job safely, mitigating risk, and reducing operator fatigue,” Fairbairn said. “In many cases, these products will also

MINE TECHNOLOGY

GEROTTO ROBOTS ARE DESIGNED TO COMPLETE REMEDIATION, EXCAVATION AND CLEANING TASKS IN HAZARDOUS, CONFINED AREAS.

boost productivity, but safety is the number one priority.

“You connect the robot to a vacuum truck, deploy it into the area, and it will break up, move and/or vacuum up

the material. The machine is equipped with cameras so you can see what you’re doing from a safe distance.

“We’ve had cases where the vacuum wasn’t needed, with the

robot used to move material to a catchment area instead. So the robot is incredibly versatile.”

KOR is in constant discussions with major contractors and end users about how the robots can be used.

“There are so many tasks that contractors are doing every day that could be done much more safely with these robots, and that’s the message we’re trying to get out,” Fairbairn said.

One key advantage of the Gerotto range is that the company’s equipment is fully certified for use in hazardous environments with ATEX and IECEx certifications.

“Many companies have traditionally relied on European certifications like ATEX, but IECEx is increasingly being requested here,” Fairbairn said.

“Gerotto the only company in this space that has obtained IECEx certification, which is a game-changer for certain applications.”

Looking to the future, KOR is focused on building awareness of Gerotto’s products and their safety benefits across a wide range of industries.

“It’s about changing the way these industries approach high-risk jobs,” Fairbairn said.

“The priority is to make dangerous jobs safer by introducing robots that can do the work humans traditionally had to do.”

With safety at the forefront of its effort, KOR is also committed to maintaining its market leadership position by offering the best products available.

“We’ve been the market leader in vacuum trucks for over a decade, and we’ve done our homework with Gerotto,” Fairbairn said.

“We believe these are the safest and most adaptable products out there for confined space work, and we’re going to continue to innovate and bring new solutions to our clients.”

Fairbairn said the strong relationship between KOR and Gerotto extends beyond just distributing products.

Gerotto has been heavily involved in helping KOR with product demonstrations and case studies to show the potential of these robots in real-world applications.

“They’ve been great partners, and we’re looking forward to continuing that relationship as we grow awareness and demand for these products in Australia and New Zealand,” Fairbairn said.

As safety remains a hot topic in mining and industrial sectors, KOR is confident that Gerotto’s robots will play a crucial role in making these industries safer while maintaining efficiency and productivity. AM

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THE NEXT WAVE OF AUSTRALIAN COPPER

IMAGE: BHP

COPPER

WHILE SOUTH AUSTRALIA AND QUEENSLAND ARE EXPECTED TO MAINTAIN THEIR POSITION AS KEY COPPER EXPORTERS IN THE FUTURE, NEW SOUTH WALES AND WA WILL ALSO HAVE A ROLE TO PLAY.

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To answer that question, Australian Mining explores which of the country’s states are equipped to export copper.

South Australia

SA contains 68 per cent of Australia’s economic demonstrated resources of copper – as stated by the ‘Australia’s Identified Mineral Resources 2023’ report – making the state one of the world’s premier copper jurisdictions.

Leading the charge is BHP, with the Big Australian already producing copper from Olympic Dam, Prominent Hill and Carrapateena, the latter two of which it acquired from OZ Minerals in 2023 for $9.63 billion.

The acquisition helped BHP increase its copper production by nine per cent during the 2023–24 financial year (FY24) to 322,000 tonnes (t) of copper.

The major miner hopes to increase its copper output by another four per cent in FY25, in hopes of delivering up to 650,000 tonnes per annum (tpa) of copper by the middle of the next decade.

BHP hopes to do this by developing its Oak Dam project into a copper producer. As of August 2024, Oak Dam had an inferred mineral resource of 1.34

billion tonnes at 0.66 per cent copper and 0.33 grams per tonne of gold.

BHP is also carrying out exploration at its Olympic Dam operation in hopes of growing the asset.

“Exploration drilling beneath the Olympic Dam orebody, at (the) OD Deeps (Olympic Dam Deeps deposit), has identified intercepts indicating grades greater than one per cent copper,” BHP said in its FY24 report.

“We are seeking approvals to begin execution activities on underground access declines at both Olympic Dam and Oak Dam.” Another company with high copper hopes is Hillgrove Resources, which produced its first copper concentrate at the Kanmantoo mine in February 2024.

Since then, Kanmantoo has experienced steady increases month by month. Most recently, the mine produced 2584t during the June 2024 quarter with 1000t being produced in the month of June alone.

Based on its recent growth, Kanmantoo is expected to produce around 12,000t of copper up to 2026.

Rex Minerals’ Hillside project is considered to be one of Australia’s largest undeveloped copper projects,

with a mineral resource of 1.9 million tonnes (Mt) of copper and 1.5 million ounces of gold.

Other emerging copper prospects in SA include Coda Minerals’ Elizabeth Creek project and Havilah Resources’ Kalkaroo project.

Queensland

True North Copper’s Cloncurry project is on the path to producing first copper, with the Wallace North deposit delivering first oxide ore in September.

Mining activities at Wallace North have ramped up in line with True North’s Cloncurry mine plan, with approximately 6000t of oxide ore mined and stockpiled at the site’s run-ofmine facility.

IMAGE: AERIS RESOURCES

s the world shifts away from fossilbased energy systems to renewable energy sources, it is clear copper will play a central role in this transition.

The base metal has a variety of end uses in a green economy, whether it be through electricity distribution, electrical equipment and devices, industrial machinery, wind turbines, solar panels and, of course, powering electric vehicles (EVs).

According to Federal Government data, Australia’s copper exploration increased by 21 per cent between 2021–23, reaching $666.8 million in 2023 after $573 million was recorded in 2022 and $550 million in 2021.

This placed copper among the top three commodities in terms of exploration expenditure in 2023 – and the base metal’s rising importance has only piqued the interest of major and emerging miners.

Despite projected shortfalls, copper supply is going to be critical in the years to come.

So where in Australia will the vital commodity come from?

THE TRITTON COPPER OPERATION IS A LONG-LIFE COPPER MINE LOCATED NEAR COBAR IN NSW.

AUSTRALIANMINING 42 NOVEMBER 2024

IMAGE: HILLGROVE RESOURCES

COPPER

BHP’S CARRAPATEENA OPERATION IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA.

True North described first oxide ore at Wallace North as a key step towards becoming a copper producer by the first quarter of 2025.

The Cloncurry restart is expected to generate free cashflow of approximately $200 million over its initial 4.6year mine life, based on current copper prices.

Harmony Gold is also advancing its Eva copper mine, which it believes will be the largest copper mine in northwest Queensland.

Located 95km north-east of Mount Isa, Harmony believes Eva has potential to be a long-life conventional open pit mine by mining native copper and copper sulphide ore that will be processed through a copper concentrator.

Harmony welcomed $20.7 million in conditional grant funding from the Queensland Government in August 2024, which is subject to several conditions such as the company reaching a final investment decision at Eva by January 2026.

The grant was allotted for preparatory works at Eva, which are currently underway and will continue over the next several months.

AIC Mines is also progressing its Jericho copper mine, which will complement the company’s Eloise copper mine.

Hammer Metals, Carnaby Resources, Revolver Resources and Transition Resources are other copper players in Queensland, most of which are operating in the prospective North West Minerals Province.

New South Wales

NSW is known for its unique porphyry copper deposits, including the worldclass Cadia operation, one of the largest gold and copper deposits in the world.

IMAGE: METALS ACQUISITION

THE KANMANTOO COPPER MINE IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA.

METALS ACQUISITION HAS PLANS TO BOOST PRODUCTION AT ITS CSA COPPER MINE IN NSW.

Cadia was acquired by Newmont from Newcrest last year and produced 28,000 tonnes of copper in FY23.

Speaking at a Melbourne Mining Club luncheon in June, Newmont president Tom Palmer revealed the company’s plans to expand its copper reach.

“We’re about 80 per cent gold today, and about 10 or 11 per cent copper, and then we’ve got silver, lead and zinc (that) make up the other 10 per cent,” Palmer said.

“As we look at our operating portfolio … it’s about 150,000 tonnes of copper that comes from a couple of those operations. Our organic project pipeline is copper–gold projects … so developing our organic project pipeline and reinvesting back into the business is going to maintain that gold band and increase that copper pipeline.”

Evolution Mining’s Northparkes is another porphyry-style deposit that delivered 1193t of copper in the June 2024 quarter and is projected to produce 23,000–27,000t in FY25.

Volcanic-associated massive sulfides deposits are also present in NSW, with Aeris Resources’ Tritton operations and the advanced Woodlawn brownfield project falling into this category.

Metals Acquisition has plans to boost production at its CSA copper mine, while emerging projects in NSW include the Mineral Hill and Copper Hill mines.

Western Australia

A copper name to keep an eye out for in Western Australia is Cyprium Metals and its Nifty restart project, which has a measured and indicated mineral resource of 119Mt at 0.84 per cent copper for 1Mt contained copper.

AUSTRALIANMINING 43 NOVEMBER 2024

A recent scoping study also found that the Nifty optimal pit contains 70Mt of sulphide ore at 0.9 per cent copper for about 570,000t of recovered copper. As a result, the Nifty mine is expected to produce 36,000 tonnes of copper on average per annum.

Some of the other WA copper players to keep tabs on are Develop Global and Anax Metals’ Sulphur Spring project, Caravel Minerals’ Caravel project and Auking Mining’s Koongie Park project.

BHP is also advancing its West Musgrave project, which is projected to have a 26-year mine life once operational.

While there are significant copper shortfalls projected for the future, if all goes to plan and most of the aforementioned copper projects enter production, Australia has potential to be a prominent export partner. AM

SURFACE MINING

CATERPILLAR BUILT THE 6040 HYDRAULIC MINING SHOVEL TO DELIVER INCREASED UPTIME BY MAKING IT MORE RELIABLE AND EASIER TO SERVICE.

THE EVOLUTION OF THE CAT HYDRAULIC SHOVEL CATERPILLAR’S 6040 HYDRAULIC MINING SHOVEL HAS TAKEN THE AUSTRALIAN RESOURCES INDUSTRY BY STORM.

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ver the years the Caterpillar hydraulic mining shovel has undergone several iterations and been fitted with various Cat components such as engines, electronics, and steel structures.

As part of its unwavering commitment to continuous improvement, Caterpillar has expanded the HMS range to include the 6040 model, which was built to increase productivity and efficiency without compromising the machine’s robustness.

“The original 6040 HMS was released in 1995 under its legacy branding and has continued to be enhanced into the 6040 model of today,” Hastings Deering HMS product manager Andrew Thorn told Australian Mining.

“The 6040 HMS is well known across the mining industry for its classleading durability and reliability. These core traits have been the foundation for its success to date and will be carried into the machine’s next generation.”

The 6040 HMS is currently available in an excavator or face shovel configuration and includes two Caterpillar C32B engines that provide 1550 kilowatts of power, resulting in an output of 39.6 tonnes of material moved per cycle.

The next-generation 6040 HMS is set to be retrofittable from diesel to an electric drive, marking the continuation of Caterpillar’s mission to electrify its equipment.

“This allows for the versatility of an untethered diesel solution in the early phase, with the ability to convert the existing asset into a tethered electric machine at a future drivetrain PCR (planned component replacement) event,” Thorn said.

“Customers can purchase the 6040 model as a diesel for a greenfield site to work on getting different pits established. Then – once electricity supply is available – you can replace the two diesel engines with electric motors, but keep the same major steel structures.

“The inclusion of optimised hydraulics on the next-generation platform has resulted in reduced engine load and reduced hydraulic operating temperatures, yielding a further reduction in fuel consumption while improving the service life of the hydraulic components.”

The 6040 model has been manufactured to meet US EPA Tier 4 Final, European Stage V and China Nonroad Stage III emission standards, making the machine a perfect fit for those wanting to reduce their emissions and decarbonise their operations while ensuring their throughput is not compromised.

A total of 240 6040 HMS machines have been produced globally, with almost half of these machines being delivered to coal mines in both Queensland and New South Wales and iron ore mines in Western Australia.

Boasting up to 4000 tonnes per hour in peak productivity, the 6040 HMS is fitted with Cat’s intelligent pump managing system, which continuously evaluates the engine and hydraulic

AUSTRALIANMINING 44 NOVEMBER 2024

operating values against values such as electronic load limit control, flow ondemand, automatic zero flow regulation and automatic engine revolutions per minute (RPM) reduction.

It then adjusts the pump output accordingly, resulting in greater productivity and less energy used.

“There have been examples of 6040 models surpassing over 100,000 hours of operation,” Thorn said.

“Typically, we’d forecast 60,000– 80,000 hours, but there are some legacy 6040 HMS’ in Queensland that have exceeded 100,000 hours, a testament to the machine’s durability and performance.”

The 6040 HMS cabin supports seating for up to three people and boasts a dual heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, all built with optimal comfort in mind.

“The state-of-the-art operator’s cabin has a 40 per cent increased field of view that incorporates a glass floor window and the relocation of in-cab hardware to below the operator’s line of sight,” Thorn said.

IMAGES: HASTINGS DEERING

SURFACE MINING

THE 6040 HYDRAULIC MINING SHOVEL BOASTS UP TO 4000 TONNES PER HOUR IN PEAK PRODUCTIVITY.

The 6040 HMS is compatible with various Cat tools and components, with the OEM having the ability to design and support the HMS end-to-end.

“The 6040 HMS is well matched with the Caterpillar 785, 789 and 793 large mining trucks, not only from a pass match perspective but also from a parts and support commonality standpoint,” Thorn said.

The latest 6040 HMS to be delivered to Australia was pre-assembled off-site

by Hastings Deering to reduce the impact on the operation’s resources, resulting in the on-site assembly lasting only two weeks.

Since commissioning, the machine has been operating at an “exceptional level”, according to Thorn.

“Because the 6040 model is connected remotely, we can see the health data and performance of the machine, allowing for visibility of the machine’s performance, technical data overlays and logging between machines of the same era globally,” Thorn said.

“This particular one is punching above its weight.

“The pre-strip application sees the 6040 HMS working consistently at the top end of its capabilities. It has the highest engine load factor, the lowest idle time, and its uptime has been incredible, resulting in a lot of material being moved in a short amount of time.”

The success of the 6040 model speaks for itself, with many legacy Cat customers often electing to replace their aged HMS with the 6040 upgrade due to its proven consistency.

It has also caught the attention of new Cat customers.

“When a new customer is considering a Cat HMS, the 6040 has proven to be their initial machine of choice based on the wide industry feedback that it’s a proven, reliable and durable machine,” Thorn said.

Tying back to continuous improvement, Caterpillar and Hastings Deering conduct voice-ofcustomer feedback sessions twice a year to evaluate the mining industry’s perception of all Cat equipment and their respective models.

The 6060 HMS went through this process in 2019, with the enhancements aligning with what customers felt the previous model was lacking. The 6040 model will go through the same process soon.

“The next generation era of Cat machines is a true testament to this process,” Thorn said.

“The improvements and enhancements implemented not only met our customer’s needs, but in many cases have exceeded them.”

As a leading Cat dealer, Hastings Deering offers a range of HMS aftermarket support.

“Hastings Deering has the largest parts, service and support network with designated HMS experts available spanning regions such as Queensland, the Northern Territory, Papua New Guinea (PNG) and the Solomon Islands,” Thorn said.

“We have designated HMS staff for all the major roles – from technical

THE 6040 HYDRAULIC MINING SHOVEL HAS A 60,000-HOUR DESIGN LIFE.

parts to ongoing daily support reliability – mostly based out of the Bowen Basin for Queensland, but also out of PNG on the sites where we have a dealer branch or part stocking store present.”

Supported by Caterpillar Australia and global distribution centres, Hastings Deering also provides engineered solutions to meet local customer needs, ensuring the ongoing maintenance of the 6040 HMS machine throughout its service life.

AUSTRALIANMINING 45 NOVEMBER 2024

“I think the big strength is our regional and global footprint,” Thorn said.

“We’ve got a major store that can support any unplanned events, the oil SOS lab for preventative maintenance, and an engineering department that does all the bespoke modifications to meet local regulations and site requirements.”

With the next-generation Cat 6040 HMS due for release in 2025, the shovel is gearing up to be a trailblazer in surface mining. AM

EQUIPMENT

DESIGNED WITH THE OPERATOR IN MIND IN THE WORLD OF MINING MACHINERY, VOLVO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT STANDS AT THE FOREFRONT, HELPING TO REVOLUTIONISE THE INDUSTRY WITH ITS FOCUS ON OPERATOR COMFORT IN EXCAVATORS.

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s mines, construction sites and quarries demand increasingly efficient and reliable machinery, the emphasis on creating a comfortable work environment for operators has become paramount.

Volvo excavators are setting new standards in the Australian market, fusing cutting-edge technology with ergonomic design to boost productivity and reduce operator fatigue.

Volvo’s emphasis on operator comfort sets a high standard for ergonomic design and technological integration in construction machinery.

By prioritising operator comfort, Volvo distinguishes itself from the crowd, offering unique features such as spacious cab interiors, low-effort controls, and customisable settings.

The ergonomic design and advanced technology incorporated into Volvo’s excavators lead to more efficient operations. Features like automated boom movements and intelligent work modes allow for quicker project completions and reduced rework, giving Volvo a competitive edge in terms of operational efficiency.

Volvo’s approach to safety and sustainability includes advanced safety features and environmentally friendly technologies such as hybrid systems and telematics for remote monitoring.

Take Volvo’s excavator cab, for example. It is designed with the operator’s comfort in mind, offering a spacious and safe environment that contributes to increased productivity.

The cab’s modern styling features slim pillars and large expanses of glass, creating an open and airy feel.

The Volvo E series – including the ECR145, ECR235E, and ECR355E – are designed with the operator in mind, along with the Volvo EW160E wheeled excavator.

Volvo excavator cabs feature all-around visibility. The design incorporates large glass areas, including a transparent roof hatch and a twopiece sliding door window.

The front windshield can be easily secured at the ceiling, while the removable lower front glass can be stored inside the cab. This visibility enhances the operator’s comfort and improves safety on the job site.

These comfort features work together to create a premium working environment that has a significant impact on productivity. Volvo excavators allow operators to work more efficiently throughout their shifts by reducing whole-body vibration and providing comfortable seating.

Volvo also recognises the importance of workplace comfort and productivity. To this end, it offers a range of customisation

options that allow operators to tailor their work environment to their individual preferences.

The excavator cab features a multi-adjustable seat with ergonomic armrests, including a height alteration function. This seat and the joystick console are mounted on the same suspension, moving together to provide shock and vibration absorption.

Operators can choose from various seat options, including vinyl or fabric seats with mechanical suspension and two-inch retractable seat belts.

The seat offers up to 12 adjustments, ensuring optimal comfort and safety for all operators.

The cab also has an integrated air-conditioning and heating system, ensuring a comfortable working environment regardless of external conditions.

Volvo has mastered balancing user comfort with machine performance in excavators through intelligent work modes, smooth hydraulic control, and power modes that optimise fuel efficiency without compromising productivity.

And Volvo’s customers are clearly seeing the benefits.

“The improved availability and productivity were immediately apparent, and our staff could work more effectively due to the improved comfort and reduced fatigue during each shift,” Wanless Waste Management project manager Peter Toole said.

Volvo excavators boast highly responsive hydraulics that allow operators to feel changing soil conditions or obstacles, enabling precise and safe digging.

Low-effort wrist-control joysticks provide smooth hydraulic control, making working inside a trench box easier, while the advanced work mode control system detects the need for additional power in tough conditions, ensuring optimal performance.

Volvo’s intelligent ECO mode improves fuel efficiency without compromising performance.

The new G4 work mode, part of the EC140D model, offers fast cycle times and optimum fuel consumption, with operators able to choose the best mode for each task. This versatility allows for increased performance and adaptability to various working conditions.

“We had several staff inspect a variety of brands of equipment, and Volvo stood out for its operator-friendly features, which is incredibly important given the time spent in the machines each day,” Toole said.

Volvo Construction Equipment continues to be a leader in transforming the construction machinery landscape.

The company’s innovative approach enhances operator experience and sets new benchmarks for safety and efficiency in the industry.

By integrating advanced technologies and ergonomic designs, Volvo redefines what it means to operate heavy machinery. AM IMAGES: CJD

VOLVO’S EXCAVATOR CAB OFFERS A SPACIOUS AND SAFE ENVIRONMENT THAT CONTRIBUTES TO INCREASED PRODUCTIVITY.

VOLVO EXCAVATORS BOAST FEATURES LIKE AUTOMATED BOOM MOVEMENTS AND INTELLIGENT WORK MODES TO ALLOW FOR QUICKER PROJECT COMPLETIONS.

AUSTRALIANMINING 46 NOVEMBER 2024

EXHIBIT AT AUSTRALIA’S LEADING MINING EXPO AND CONFERENCE AIMEX PROVIDES AN UNMATCHED OPPORTUNITY TO CONNECT AND DO BUSINESS WITH LEADING MINING SUPPLIERS FROM AROUND THE WORLD.

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CONVEYOR SYSTEMS

CONVEYOR BELTS BUILT FOR AUSTRALIAN MINES

A LIGHT TOUCH OF THE BELT AGAINST THE GUIDE ROLLERS CREATES PRECISION CORRECTION.

ESS ENGINEERING HAS DEVELOPED A SOLUTION TO THE COMMON SAFETY ISSUE OF CONVEYOR BELT MISTRACKING.

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onveyor belt mistracking is a challenge across Australian mine sites, leading to significant operational disruptions.

A range of factors can contribute to this issue, including idler misalignment, poor belt condition, and off-centre material loading.

These factors, when left unchecked, can trigger further complications such as material spillage, environmental hazards, and safety concerns. Conveyor system damage can also lead to costly consequences.

The financial impact of conveyor belt misalignment can be enormous, especially if it results in an unexpected shutdown of operations.

“There’s a lot involved in getting a belt back online when mistracking triggers a shutdown,” ESS sales and service technician Jerome Reid said.

These shutdowns can cause production delays and drive-up maintenance expenses, highlighting the need for effective preventive measures.

To address the problem, belt trackers have emerged as a crucial solution in maintaining conveyor alignment.

“At ESS, our aim is to keep belts aligned and operating smoothly, reducing the need for shutdowns,” Reid said.

ESS belt trackers utilise robust guide rollers, which run along the edge of the belt to detect misalignment.

When misalignment occurs, these guide rollers are linked to a mechanism that pivots a roller frame, guiding the belt back to its central position.

This process is continuous, providing constant minor corrections and requiring minimal force, which helps in preventing major misalignment issues.

Recently, a major iron ore producer reached out to ESS after facing difficulties with belt trackers from other suppliers. This prompted the customer to review and update its safety design standards, necessitating upgraded components that could be retrofitted onto its existing trackers.

The client had previously sourced trackers from multiple suppliers, but ESS was ultimately chosen to lead the retrofitting due to its track record for reliability and customer collaboration.

“We received feedback that our products have become a go-to solution thanks to their superior performance and reliability, in some cases replacing

a competitor’s unit,” ESS engineer Mitch Stone said.

“We worked extensively with the customer to create a solution which best suited the new requirements.

“It was important to make the solution easily retrofittable because of the large number of ESS trackers already installed and the high cost associated with complete replacement.”

The resulting retrofit kit included enhancements to existing features, along with additional security measures designed to tether major components of the tracker assembly together.

This added security reduces the risk of falling objects, particularly in the unlikely event of a failure. The design ensures that in case a guide roller seizes

THE ESS HD UPPER BELT TRACKER SYSTEM AUTOMATICALLY SENSES AND CONTINUOUSLY CORRECTS BELT TRACKING. AUSTRALIANMINING 48 NOVEMBER 2024

while the belt is in motion, it remains tethered to the frame even if severed, preventing the risk of falling debris that could pose a danger to workers.

“ESS can tailor its solutions to the needs of any site,” Stone said. “This allows us to remain dynamic in our approach and help customers receive the best solution to suit their individual requirements.”

ESS’s flexible approach ensures it can meet a wide array of customer needs, whether through modifications to existing products or by designing entirely new solutions. With service and manufacturing facilities across Australia, ESS ensures its customers receive timely and effective support, regardless of their location.

The company’s strong customer focus and commitment to innovation have made it an industry leader in conveyor solutions.

By remaining equally dedicated to creative manufacturing and efficient service, ESS serves a diverse range of industries and clients.

“Our customer focus is what drives us towards being an industry leader,” Reid said.

“Every application is different, and we really thrive off meeting customer challenges head-on and delivering solutions they can rely on.

“There are a variety of trackers on the market, but at ESS we go above and beyond, working with our customers to provide products which outperform on a consistent basis. Our reputation for superior solutions continues to grow, and we’re eager to grow with it.”

By continuing to push the boundaries of innovation and maintain close collaboration with its clients, ESS aims to cement its place as a trusted name in conveyor belt solutions across Australia’s mining sector. AM

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GOLD

IMAGE: SIRTRAVELALOT/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

A GOLD GREATLAND AUSTRALIAN MINING TAKES A DEEP DIVE INTO GREATLAND GOLD’S ACQUISITION OF TWO NEWMONT GOLD ASSETS.

F

rom the Red 5–Silver Lake merger to the Westgold–Karora deal, 2024 has proven to be the year of gold mergers and acquisitions (M&A) throughout the industry.

The latest to join the list is Greatland Gold, which is set to acquire two of Newmont’s largest gold assets: the Telfer gold-copper mine and the Havieron gold-copper project, both situated in Western Australia.

The $US475 million ($690 million) agreement follows months of speculation and has set the Australian mining industry abuzz.

But how did we get here, and how will the acquisition shape Australia’s gold sector? Australian Mining investigates.

The assets

The story begins in February 2024, when Newmont announced its plans to divest six gold mines and two gold projects that didn’t meet its definition of a Tier-1 asset.

Two of these operations were Telfer and Havieron.

One of Australia’s most historic gold-copper mines, Telfer is located 400km from Port Hedland in WA and produced 349,000 ounces of gold and 17,000 tonnes (t) of copper during the 2022–23 financial year (FY23).

Located 45km to the east of Telfer is Havieron, discovered by Greatland in 2018. Havieron is one of the largest copper-gold deposits to have been recently discovered in the Paterson region of WA. As of December 2023, Havieron’s mineral resource estimate comprised 131 million tonnes (Mt) at 1.7 grams per tonne of gold and 0.21 per cent copper, for a total of seven million ounces of gold and 275,000t of copper.

The project was originally being advanced under an unincorporated 30:70 joint venture signed by Greatland and Newcrest in November 2020.

When Newmont acquired Newcrest in October 2023, it inherited Newcrest’s 70 per cent stake in Havieron, as well as the management of the project.

While Telfer and Havieron have delivered impressive results over the years, Newmont didn’t consider either mine to be a Tier 1 asset.

THE TELFER MINE IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA.

AUSTRALIANMINING 50 NOVEMBER 2024

Newmont defines a Tier 1 asset as an operation with “(more than) 500,000 gold equivalent ounces per year consolidated, (an) average all-in sustaining cost per ounce in the lower half of the industry cost curve, and a mine life (greater than) 10 years in countries classified in the A and B rating ranges of Moody’s, S&P and Fitch”.

Newmont’s feelings on the mines aside, several gold miners began eyeing the assets once the major announced its plan to divest, with Greatland ultimately coming out on top.

The deal

A UK COMPANY, GREATLAND GOLD IS GROWING ITS FOOTPRINT IN THE AUSTRALIAN GOLD MINING INDUSTRY.

“We look forward to continuing to support Greatland as it develops the Havieron project and establishes itself as a leading Australian gold producer,” he said.

Rich in mineral resources, the Paterson Province is known as a leading gold region in Australia, with a known endowment of more than 5Mt of copper and 39 million ounces of gold.

The abundance of pure metals is a clear benefit for Greatland,

IMAGE: PHAWAT/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

With Greatland already owning 30 per cent of Havieron, and with Telfer being in close proximity, the projects were considered to be a package deal.

Newmont president and chief executive officer (CEO) Tom Palmer said the deal marked the company’s first asset sale as part of its divestiture program.

“I am pleased that Telfer and Havieron are being sold to Greatland, a company with a highly experienced management team and board of directors,” Palmer said in September.

“I have full confidence that the Greatland team will be outstanding stewards of these assets.

“Including the Telfer divestiture, we continue to expect to reach at least $US2 billion in total proceeds from the sale of our high-quality, non-core assets, enabling us to focus attention on our suite of Tier-1 assets, further reduce debt, and return capital to shareholders.”

Greatland also has the backing of Andrew Forrest’s Wyloo, which became Greatland’s largest shareholder in September 2022 through a $120 million investment.

“Wyloo is pleased to support Greatland Gold’s consolidation of the world-class Havieron goldcopper development project and the producing Telfer gold-copper mine with a funding package of up to $US100 million,” Wyloo said in September 2024. “Wyloo’s investment will support Greatland’s acquisition of the remaining 70 per cent interest in Havieron, 100 per cent of Telfer, and other related interests in assets in the region.”

Greatland is also funding the acquisition through a $US325 million ($472 million) capital raise, priced at 4.8 pence per share.

Wyloo CEO Luca Giacovazzi said the consolidation will empower Greatland “to create a world-class mining and processing hub in the emerging Paterson Range province”.

IMAGE: RHJPHTOTOS/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

GOLD

THE ACQUISITION OF NEWMONT’S GOLD MINES WILL ENABLE GREATLAND GOLD TO CREATE A LEADING MINING AND PROCESSING HUB IN WA.

AUSTRALIANMINING 51 NOVEMBER 2024

but the company will also have the opportunity to leverage Telfer’s existing infrastructure to further enhance Havieron’s development while saving operational costs.

With the transaction set to close by the end of the year, a new era for Telfer and Havieron is on the horizon.

And as Greatland looks to list on the ASX by early 2025, Australia may just have a new mid-tier gold producer on its hands. AM

MINING EDUCATION

EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION WITH MINING ACCOUNTING FOR A SIGNIFICANT SHARE OF AUSTRALIA’S EXPORT REVENUE, IT IS IMPERATIVE THE COUNTRY HAS AN EDUCATION SYSTEM IN PLACE TO TEACH THE NEXT GENERATION.

T

he resources industry’s reliance on a highly skilled workforce is more crucial than ever as industries evolve towards automation, sustainability, and a net-

universities and schools are working to mitigate.

“Schools and universities can help alleviate the skills shortage by engaging with industry-led programs such as ours,” Morten said. “Co-designed by industry and education, the program helps inform young people about the pathways and future possibilities in the resources sector.”

SACOME has also contributed significantly to building this talent pipeline, with Knol chairing the Australian Network of Mining Engineering Educators (ANMEE) since 2019.

“The results of ANMEE’s recently published 2023 Mining Engineering Graduates report demonstrates a 35 per cent increase nationally in graduating mining engineers in the past two years,” Knol said.

“In 2023, a total of 167 mining engineers graduated across the country, and the demand for mining engineers continues to grow as we move to a netzero future.”

Both organisations are focused on promoting mining career pathways for students, not just in metropolitan areas but also in regional communities.

“One of the highlights of introducing this program to WA schools is seeing the reaction of teachers and students when presented with content that is relevant to WA,” Morten said.

“Students can identify locations, visuals, and even resources within their local community. It’s real-world learning in the classroom.”

SACOME’s advocacy efforts include campaigns and scholarships aimed at showcasing the resources sector to students.

Knol spoke to initiatives such as the ‘Resources. But not as you know it’ campaign, which seeks to attract young people to the sector by highlighting the modern, high-tech nature of mining careers.

“A consistent theme in these campaigns is the showcasing of young professionals, recognising that you cannot be who you cannot see,” Knol said.

IMAGE: MAGNIFICAL PRODUCTIONS/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

zero future.

Industry bodies such as the Chamber of Minerals and Energy WA (CME) and the South Australian Chamber of Mines & Energy (SACOME) are ensuring mining education aligns with these future trends, fostering the next generation of professionals.

Through innovative programs and partnerships, they are connecting schools, universities, and industry to build a robust talent pipeline across Australia.

Both CME and SACOME have taken significant steps to advocate for mining-related topics to be included in educational curriculums. The CME’s Digital Technologies Program, which has already engaged over 3100 students across Western Australia, is one of the key initiatives in this area.

“The CME Digital Technologies Program is a K–10 Australian curriculum-aligned learning resource focused on automation and data science,” CME WA manager of digital technologies Asta Morton told Australian Mining. “Co-designed with CME members, the program has engaged with 3121 students and 272 teachers across 90 schools since it was established in 2020.”

SACOME chief executive officer Rebecca Knol said SACOME has adapted CME’s digital technologies program to have a South Australian focus and piloted the program in six Catholic education SA schools.

“The program empowers educators to teach STEM skills, increase student interest in technology-based career pathways, and support the future skilled-talent pipeline crucially needed for the South Australian resources sector and other essential industries,” she told Australian Mining.

Australia’s mining sector faces a growing skills shortage, which

DIVERSITY IS A PRIORITY FOR BOTH CME AND SACOME AS THE AUSTRALIAN MINING INDUSTRY IS COMMITTED TO CREATING INCLUSIVE WORKPLACES. AUSTRALIANMINING 52 NOVEMBER 2024

IMAGE: PERUPHOTART/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

MINING EDUCATION

Engagement with regional areas is critical for both CME and SACOME, as these are often the communities that have the most direct links to the mining sector.

“Over 80 per cent of our participating schools are in regional or remote Western Australia,” Morton said.

“By investing in the program, CME members are supporting opportunities for WA students, regardless of background or location, to pursue careers in science and technology.”

Diversity is also a priority for both CME and SACOME as the Australian mining industry is committed to creating inclusive workplaces and attracting underrepresented groups, including women and Indigenous Australians, to the sector.

Morton said that employing a diverse workforce has never been more important.

“To remain globally competitive and to attract the best and brightest, the mining industry needs the diversity of thought and experience that comes from employing people from different backgrounds,” she said.

In discussions about the future, Morton said that as automation and sustainability continue to reshape the mining sector, ensuring educational programs align with industry needs is paramount.

“In working with CME members and Grok Academy, our program meets the needs of curriculum delivery and develops foundational knowledge of automation and data

IMAGE: PARILOV/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

THE RESOURCE INDUSTRY’S RELIANCE ON A HIGHLY SKILLED WORKFORCE IS MORE CRUCIAL THAN EVER.

AUSTRALIA’S MINING SECTOR FACES A GROWING SKILLS SHORTAGE, WHICH UNIVERSITIES AND SCHOOLS ARE WORKING TO MITIGATE.

science, which are essential transferable STEM skills,” Morton said.

Knol said ANMEE shares the same responsibility as it empowers the next generation of mining engineers.

“ANMEE is a powerful collective of mining educators and industry associations with a shared goal of enhancing the viability of mining engineering programs,” Knol said.

“This is achieved by offering sustainable and contemporary curriculum and teaching and learning practices to enhance the reputation of Australian mining engineering programs and to produce world-class engineering graduates.”

The success of programs like the Digital Technologies Program in WA and SA, as well as other initiatives

across Australia, are reliant on strong partnerships between industry and education.

“The CME Digital Technologies Program would not be possible without the ongoing and enthusiastic support of our members,” Morton said.

“By supporting the program development and availability, educators around WA are provided the resources they need to deliver engaging and meaningful classroom learning.”

Looking forward, both CME and SACOME are optimistic about the future of mining education but also caution against complacency.

“There has been a trend in recent years to remove subjects from the Australian curriculum that are

AUSTRALIANMINING 53 NOVEMBER 2024

feeder subjects for students engaging in a tertiary STEM education,” Knol said. “These subtle changes are impacting the workforce of the future.”

Mining education in Australia is evolving to meet the demands of a sector in transition. Through the efforts of CME, SACOME, and other industry associations, schools and universities are playing a pivotal role in preparing the next generation of mining professionals.

By connecting students with real-world industry insights and providing pathways into high-tech, sustainable careers, these organisations are ensuring that the resources sector remains a cornerstone of the Australian economy. AM

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INDUSTRY INSIGHT

THE FUTURE OF RESOURCES JOBS IMAGE: PERUPHOTART/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

A NEW REPORT HAS IDENTIFIED MORE THAN 100 NEW AUSTRALIAN RESOURCES INDUSTRY PROJECTS ARE LIKELY TO CREATE UP TO 27,000 JOBS OVER THE NEXT FIVE YEARS. WA CONTINUES TO BE AN INDUSTRY STANDOUT.

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he Australian Resources and Energy Employer Association (AREEA) released its annual ‘Resources and Energy Workforce Forecast: 20242029’ in September, taking a deep dive into the estimated labour required to operate new, expanding and restarted mining projects.

According to the report, there are 107 major resources and energy projects in Australia’s investment pipeline – either already committed or considered advanced – expected to enter production between the second half of 2024 and the end of 2029.

These projects are worth about $131 billion and are forecast to drive demand for around 26,810 new productionrelated jobs, marking Australia as an attractive place for major resources project investment.

“Iron ore, coal and gas saw Australia’s export earnings reach a record $466 billion in the year to June 2023,” AREEA chief executive Steve Knott said when the report was released.

“The industry also contributes over $70 billion annually in taxes and royalties – and there is a great opportunity for this to increase.”

Mining commodities retaining their traditional strengths to the end of the decade include coal with 13 projects for a forecasted 4836 workers, iron ore with

eight projects for 4495 workers, gold with 13 projects for 2830 workers and critical minerals with 14 projects for 3078 workers.

Copper was one emerging mineral proving to be particularly accretive, with 10 projects forecasted to require 2775 workers by the end of 2026.

New South Wales

on a further 1971 resources employees by the end of the decade, with WIM Resource’s Avonbank Mineral Sands project in Victoria anticipated to be the biggest prospective driver of new employment at nearly 600 employees required by end of 2026.

Northern Territory

Continuing its mining boom, NSW is forecast to create demand for 5152 new production employees across 18 projects in the state by the end of 2029 – an increase of 800 on last year’s figures.

Upcoming highlights for NSW include Whitehaven Coal’s Vickery expansion and the commencement of Malabar’s Maxwell coal mine, Australian Pacific Coal’s Dartbrook mine and the upcoming optimisation of MACH Energy’s Mt Pleasant coal project.

Current employment in the NT is at an all-time high, with 4600 people directly employed. The NT has eight mining projects in its investment pipeline promising up to 1615 new production jobs by 2027.

Gold is the standout with four projects expected to require around 990 workers over that timeframe. Primary Gold’s Mt Bundy and Vista Gold Australia’s Mt Todd are both up for reactivation, offering a strong return for local workers.

Queensland

South Australia

There are 3527 jobs in Queensland’s major project pipeline.

Coal continues to be the state’s star performer with six projects expected to create about 2000 new jobs. This increase is being led by Whitehaven Coal’s Winchester South, Bowen Coking Coal’s Hillalong and the reactivation of Peabody’s Centurion coal project.

Victoria and Tasmania

The southern states are expected to take

SA is also looking quite healthy in the world of job prospects, with eight mining projects expected to come online between 2024–2029 requiring a forecasted 3130 new workers.

This would add 21 per cent to the state’s existing resources workforce of 14,400, bringing it back up to historic highs.

Iron ore is the big driver of growth in SA, with SIMEC’s Middleback Ranges anticipated to deliver 1200 jobs and

AUSTRALIANMINING 54 NOVEMBER 2024

Iron Road’s Central Eyre iron project drumming up 700, accounting for more than half the total forecast growth alone.

Western Australia

Unsurprisingly, WA continues to be a star in Australia’s resources industry.

New resources workers are in high demand in the state, where close to 50 mining and oil and gas projects rest in the investment pipeline, requiring a projected 11,065 employees by 2029.

Lithium and other critical minerals projects continue to underpin a stable labour market in WA, while future energy projects – oil, gas and liquified natural gas – promise $55.7 billion of total investment for the next five years.

Of the 37 mining projects in WA’s pipeline, iron ore is set to spur demand for 2095 workers by the end of 2026 at Grange Resources’ Southdown, Rio Tinto’s Western Range and Macarthur Minerals’ Lake Giles projects.

Elsewhere in the state, seven gold projects are calling for almost 1700 new workers by the end of 2027, while other projects in copper, nickel, cobalt and alumina will require at least 2700 workers.

With a total 27,000 new jobs forecast to need filling across Australia by the end of the decade, the resources industry is yet again proving itself to be underscored by a strong future of growth and development. AM

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TOP-TIER CUSTOMER SERVICE NATIONAL PLASTICS AND RUBBER HAS EXPANDED WITH A NEW SUPPLY CENTRE IN WA. IMAGES: NATIONAL PLASTICS & RUBBER

N

ational Plastics and Rubber is boosting its customer service and product availability with the opening of a new supply centre in Western Australia.

The company is committed to providing high-quality, Australianmanufactured solutions to the mining and heavy equipment industries, with an emphasis on safety, productivity, and timely support.

The new supply centre will offer multiple benefits including reduced lead times, improved product availability, and enhanced technical support.

Speaking to Australian Mining, National Plastics and Rubber general manager Peter Georgiou shared insights into the motivations behind this expansion and the advantages it will bring to both the company and its clients.

The decision to open a supply centre in WA was driven by the need to get closer to customers, specifically those in the mining industry.

“National Plastics is really about solutions to the industry, so being closer to our WA customers gives us that access as well as a more transparent and streamlined service,” Georgiou said.

The new supply centre will enable the company to respond faster to client needs, reduce downtime, and ultimately improve the operational efficiency of the mines National Plastics serves.

“It’s about being closer to WA miners, improving response times both technically and in supply,” Georgiou said.

“We can find out what the customer’s needs are and what they need to have improved, so then we can go design and manufacture those products to fix those problems and improve their productivity and safety.”

This expansion aligns perfectly with National Plastics’ broader strategy of delivering Australian-manufactured solutions efficiently.

By being on the ground in WA, the company can better understand the evolving needs of its clients, particularly when it comes to product design and innovation.

This means more opportunities for feedback on its products, enabling the company to optimise designs and address specific operational challenges.

A direct line of communication will ensure products can be continually improved based on real-world applications and client feedback.

STACKO TRAINING WITH JAI SCHLUTER, PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT AND SALES FOR NATIONAL PLASTICS & RUBBER.

WA’s vibrant mining sector, especially in the Pilbara region, also represents a significant market for National Plastics’ products, including its innovative Stacko blocks.

Stacko blocks offer a lightweight and versatile alternative to traditional cribbing solutions, such as timber.

“They’re manufactured from highquality, UV-stabilised materials, which means they last longer,” Georgiou said.

“Compared to traditional cribbing solutions, they are load rated, can handle a good amount of weight, and are interlocking, so it means you’re not getting movement when the blocks have heavy equipment put on them.

“The blocks are also lightweight, making it safer from a workplace perspective, as workers don’t have to lift heavy timber which can be 30 per cent heavier than a Stacko block itself.”

Another key benefit of National Plastics’ new supply centre is the ability to reduce lead times for product delivery and with stock now available locally, the company can ensure products are delivered promptly.

“By holding stock in WA and having expertise in the state, we can minimise downtime and keep the mines operating more efficiently,” Georgiou said.

“We can also reach South Australia from WA if needed, so it’s a strategic location for both WA and other regions.”

THE STACKO BLOCKS ARE LIGHTER AND STRONGER THAN TRADITIONAL METHODS.

The Stacko blocks’ durability not only enhances safety on-site but also reduces environmental impact, as fewer replacements are needed over the product’s lifetime.

Sustainability is a core focus for National Plastics, and by reducing the need for frequent replacements, the company is helping clients lower their overall material usage and reduce waste.

While the WA expansion is a significant step for National Plastics in

serving its Australian mining clients, it is also part of a broader global strategy.

By positioning itself closer to its customers, the company is not only improving service delivery but also reinforcing its commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability.

For WA miners, this means faster access to essential products and a continued focus on boosting operational efficiency through high-quality, Australian-manufactured solutions. AM

AUSTRALIANMINING 56 NOVEMBER 2024

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INDUSTRY INSIGHT

SALT OF THE EARTH THE MARDIE SALT AND POTASH PROJECT IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA IS WELL ON ITS WAY TO BECOMING A PRODUCER.

I

n September, BCI Minerals received environmental approval from the Federal Government to progress its flagship project: the Mardie salt and potash mine on the coast of Western Australia.

The Mardie project is set to be the first major salt project developed in Australia in two decades and the only Australian operation to produce commercially saleable salt.

Under construction since February 2022, upon completion Mardie will result in a Tier 1 solar evaporation project that will be a sustainable supplier of salt and potash to the growing chemical and agricultural industries for generations.

It is forecast to produce approximately five million tonnes of salt and 140 thousand tonnes of potash every year for 60 years.

With salt being one of the most widely used substances on earth, the Mardie project is being developed at a critical time.

In a statement announcing BCI’s receipt of environmental approval, BCI managing director David Boshoff said the Mardie project is “pivotal” for the company.

“Australia hasn’t developed a salt project of this significance in 25 years, and the Mardie project will be Australia’s largest solar salt project and the third largest globally,” he said.

“With the projected growth in demand for high grade industrial salt in our target Asian markets, BCI Minerals is strongly positioned to supply global markets with Mardie salt for generations.”

BCI has known it has a winner on its hands for a while now, having received offtake agreements from various companies across Asia since 2023.

In both June and July 2023, BCI signed non-binding agreements with two key companies: Itochu and MIND ID. Itochu is one of Japan’s largest trading and investment companies, and had its sights set on Mardie’s salt.

Itochu agreed to negotiate an offtake agreement to purchase a minimum of 3.6 million tonnes of Mardie salt in aggregate over five years from 2026.

This prompted BCI to nominate Itochu as its preferred trading partner for Japan, Korea and Taiwan and additional specific end users, subject to execution of a formal offtake agreement.

ENVIRONMENTAL APPROVAL FOR MARDIE WAS RECEIVED IN SEPTEMBER.

“BCI is excited to have reached this milestone agreement with Itochu, a world leading chemical trading company,” Boshoff said.

“BCI looks forward to supplying Itochu with high-purity Mardie salt and welcoming Itochu as a preferred trading partner for Japan, Korea and Taiwan.

BCI HAS BEEN DEVELOPING MARDIE SINCE FEBRUARY 2022.

AUSTRALIANMINING 58 NOVEMBER 2024

“This term sheet marks an important step in the development of the Mardie project, and supports our vision of becoming a globally significant minerals business.”

An memorandum of understand (MoU) with MIND ID could pave the way for an offtake agreement of one million tonnes of salt per annum.

IMAGES: BCI MINERALS

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

LOCATED ON THE COAST OF WA, MARDIE IS SET TO BECOME A MAJOR SALT OPERATION FOR AUSTRALIA.

MIND ID is owned by the Indonesian Government and acts as the holding company for the Indonesian government’s investment in the mining industry in Indonesia.

The MoU contemplated a potential offtake agreement with an initial term of five years from supply commencement, currently anticipated to be in or around July 2026, with the option to extend the term for a further five-year period.

“The MoU aligns with our strategic positioning and commercial strategy at a time of emerging opportunities in global markets for the supply of high-quality salt products,” Boshoff said.

“BCI is extremely pleased to receive MIND ID’s expression of interest in making a material equity investment in BCI and looks forward to welcoming MIND ID as a key shareholder of BCI on the expected successful completion of these negotiations.”

And the agreements didn’t stop there.

In March this year, BCI received a binding offtake agreement from Chandra Asri.

The agreement will see BCI supply salt from Mardie to Chandra Asri over a three-year term, with the option to extend for a further three years.

BCI would supply 300,000 tonnes of salt per annum, which can increase to up to 600,000 tonnes of salt per annum.

“This partnership solidifies our competitive market-leading position for our plans in progress to develop a world-scale caustic soda and ethylene dichloride plant,” Chandra Asri chief executive officer Erwin Ciputra said.

BCI would go on to clinch financial close for a $981 million syndicated facility agreement (SFA) from a range of lenders in October, with the likes of the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility, Export Finance Australia, and Westpac coming on board to get Mardie off the ground.

BCI is targeting the first drawdown from the debt facility in the third quarter of the 2024–25 financial year

(FY25), which will be drawn from $830 million of construction loan facilities.

“Reaching financial close on the syndicated facility agreement is an important milestone for BCI Minerals for the salt-first component of the Mardie project,” Boshoff said.

“With key achievements including the commencement of operations, securing binding offtake agreements and signing the CSL transhipment contract, we are continuing to execute our plan with precision and building confidence with our stakeholders.”

With salt supply expected to commence in the second half of 2026, all eyes are firmly on Mardie and its highly anticipated results. AM

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CRITICAL MINERALS

SCANDIUM TAKES FLIGHT

SCANDIUM IS CONSIDERED A CRITICAL MINERAL IN AUSTRALIA, CANADA, THE EU AND THE US.

AUSTRALIAN MINING SPOTLIGHTS FOUR PROJECTS UNDERPINNING AUSTRALIA’S SCANDIUM FUTURE.

K

“Global consumption has increased considerably driven by its use in aluminium-scandium alloys and SOFCs.” As the demand for aluminiumscandium alloys and SOFCs grows, scandium resources will need to be unearthed on a more consistent and stable basis.

This is where Australia has a chance to shine.

As of December 31 2022, Australia had 36,650 tonnes (t) of economic demonstrated scandium resources and 11,650t in scandium ore reserves.

While there are currently no active Australian scandium mines, there are multiple companies looking to change this.

Nyngan

Dubbed the world’s first scandium-only mining project, the Nyngan scandium project is located in New South Wales and is wholly owned by Scandium International Mining Corp, a company focused on building a portfolio of technology-driven minerals projects.

Scandium International has completed a definitive feasibility study (DFS) for Nyngan, which said the project has potential to produce an average of 37,690kg of scandium oxide per annum at grades of 98–99.9 per cent.

Other highlights of the DFS include a 20-year mine life, a capital cost estimate of $US87.1 million, and $US75.4 million in annual revenue.

As of May 2016, Nyngan had 16.9 million tonnes (Mt) in mineral resources, grading 235 parts per million (ppm) scandium at a 100ppm cut-off in the measured and indicated categories.

IMAGE: THIAGO B TREVISAN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

nown for its use in alloys for aerospace industries, specialised lighting applications, and electronics, scandium has emerged as a critical mineral to keep an eye on.

Soft, lightweight and silver in appearance, scandium has a high melting point, decent electrical and heat conductivity, and great resistance to heat and corrosion.

Having been considered a critical mineral in Australia since 2019, scandium is known as the most effective microalloying element that can strengthen aluminium products.

It is also renowned for its role in producing solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), used as a green power source for buildings, medical facilities, data processing centres, lasers, and lighting.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), scandium has been historically produced as a byproduct from other metals – most notably in China from iron ore, rare earths, titanium, and zirconium, Kazakhstan from uranium, the Philippines from nickel, Russia from apatite and uranium, and Ukraine from uranium.

Consequently, processing ore for scandium is difficult and there are very few reliable scandium sources globally, despite demand for the commodity increasing.

“The global supply and consumption of scandium oxide was estimated to be about 30 to 40 tonnes per year with a global capacity estimate of 80 tonnes per year,” USGS said in its 2024 scandium mineral commodity summary.

SCANDIUM IS USED IN ALLOYS WITHIN THE AEROSPACE INDUSTRY.

It also had a project reserve totalling 1.43Mt, grading 409ppm scandium.

And Scandium International is not content to stop there. To further grow the Nyngan resource, the company conducted an 11-hole drilling program in August 2023.

The program further defined nearsurface scandium-enriched laterite at the western edges of the mineral resource and provided Scandium International with knowledge of how to optimise development of Nyngan when it goes into production.

Early on-site construction works commenced three months later, which included surveying of the site, removal and stockpiling of topsoil from the construction site, and construction of a temporary site office.

Scandium International has completed its environmental impact statement for Nyngan and has development approval and clearances from Aboriginal Heritage.

The company is currently progressing offtake agreements for solid-oxide fuel cells, 3D printing, and aluminiumscandium master alloy sales.

Sunrise

Situated in Fifield in central NSW, the Sunrise project comprises a shallow open-cut mine, a hydrometallurgical processing plant and a refinery for production of battery-grade nickel, cobalt sulphate and scandium oxide.

According to owner Sunrise Energy Metals, the Sunrise nickel-cobaltscandium project is poised to “become a strategic supplier of battery raw materials and aluminium-scandium alloys”.

“Sourcing 100 per cent renewable power, the Sunrise project is designed and engineered to optimise the production process for high-purity battery materials by lowering cost, improving product quality and minimising carbon emissions,” Sunrise Energy Metals said on its website.

Sunrise completed a DFS for Sunrise in June 2018, based on a 2.5-milliontonnes-per-annum ore throughput rate and an initial mine life of 25 years.

“Sunrise is set to deliver significant economic and social benefits over many decades … including safe and well-paid employment, infrastructure upgrades, royalties, taxes and local community contributions,” the 2018 DFS said.

The DFS was updated in 2020 to include a project execution plan, revised capital and operating costs and an engineering study.

AUSTRALIANMINING 60 NOVEMBER 2024

It also included an increase in average production rates for the first 10 years of full production, with the project estimated to produce 18,000 tonnes of scandium oxide per annum. Sunrise’s ore reserves also support up to 50 years of operations.

“The project is forecast to deliver over $US16 billion in revenue and average annual post-tax free cashflow of $US308 million over the first 25 years of operations,” the 2020 DFS said.

Now, the Sunrise project is development ready with all technical studies, key permits and approvals in place.

Sunrise Energy Metals has received expressions of interest from several parties for scandium offtake agreements and is currently progressing these discussions.

Fifield

Critical minerals explorer Rimfire Pacific Mining recently revealed a “highly encouraging” maiden mineral resource estimate for its scandium

IMAGE: RHJPHTOTOS/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

CRITICAL MINERALS

exploration targets at the Fifield project in central NSW. The exploration targets included the Melrose and Murga North areas, which are believed to contain at least 3Mt at 240ppm scandium and 21Mt at 125ppm scandium, respectively.

“Declaring maiden scandium mineral resources for Melrose and Murga North is an important first step in achieving our objective of building a globally significant scandium resource inventory at Fifield,” Rimfire managing director David Hutton said in September.

“An accompanying exploration target for the broader Murga area also highlights the excellent potential to build upon the maiden mineral resources.”

Both Melrose and Murga North are located approximately 70km from Parkes, one of the only areas globally in which scandium mineralisation occurs in commercial accumulations.

Rimfire hopes to establish satellite scandium projects in the

broader Murga prospect, with infill aircore and diamond drilling to convert the exploration target into a mineral resource.

In addition to Melrose, Murga North and the broader Murga area, Rimfire plans to investigate its other scandium prospects, including Forrest View, Currajong, Kars and Tout East, and Derriwong.

Sconi

Considered a Tier 1 mining project, Australian Mines’ Sconi nickelcobalt-scandium project is located 220km northwest of Townsville in Greenvale, Queensland.

According to the project’s DFS from 2019, Sconi has potential to produce an average of 46,800 tonnes of nickel sulphate and 7000 tonnes of cobalt sulphate per annum over a 30-year mine life.

“In February 2019, the company announced a 63 per cent increase in the tonnage of the Greenvale mineral

resource and a 94 per cent increase in the Lucknow mineral resource, with total mineral resources for Sconi now estimated at 75.71Mt at 0.60 per cent nickel and 0.08 per cent cobalt,” the DFS said.

“The project is now estimated to produce 1.41 million tonnes of nickel sulphate, 209,000 tonnes of cobalt sulphate and 1441 tonnes of scandium over the project life.”

Sconi has already been granted mining licenses and additional extensions to these mining licenses have been submitted.

Australian Mines is currently completing the required environmental and heritage studies for the project, such as applicable land access agreements to secure financing for a positive final investment decision.

Backed by an offtake agreement with LG Energy Solution, Australian Mines remains open to discussions regarding project financing and/or offtake arrangements.

AUSTRALIANMINING 61 NOVEMBER 2024

As the world decarbonises, critical minerals such as scandium will serve as the beating heart of the global energy transition.

In September, the Federal Government released a digital version of the Australian Critical Minerals Prospectus, showcasing 55-plus investment-ready critical minerals projects. Among the group was Nyngan, Sunrise and Sconi.

“Australia is ready and willing to meet the growing global demand for critical minerals, and we welcome international investment in key projects across the country,” Federal Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell said.

“Australia has all the critical minerals the world needs and we need investment to get these projects up and running.”

With strong resources readily available for global investment, Australia is poised to help meet the global demand for scandium. AM

Revolutionising oil surface separation across mining Collection and separation of oil and diesel directly at the water surface “It’s a massive difference, and is making the entire process of managing wastewater much easier ensuring we operate well within national mining industry regulations” – Foreman Mining Construction, Mandalay Resources Sweden

• Continuous unmanned/remote operation with minimal service requirements.

• Remove surface pollution and reduce the VOC:s emitted in the air, improving both the air quality and the working environment.

• Surfcleaner delivers essential data for sustainability reports, including the volume of oil collected, energy consumption, and the quantity of processed water.

• Surfcleaner operates with high flow rates and low pressure, resulting in exceptionally low energy consumption.

• The separation process being fully automatic, Surfcleaner does not require manual handling on site.

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

A LONG-AWAITED GREEN LIGHT

O

has experienced a multitude of challenges from changes to heritage legislation, and changes to federal environment guidelines.”

The $600 million project has now received final Part V works approval under the Environmental Protection Act 1986.

“Our staff, Mrs Rinehart and I are very pleased that after long and sustained dialogues at all levels we have achieved this important milestone,” Manchanda said.

McPhee, which has an approximate 15-year mine life, is expected to have a production rate between 9.5–9.7 million tonnes of iron ore per year.

Thiess-owned mining contractor MACA landed the contract for the mine in early 2023, with the international group set to undertake load and haul services for the first three years of the project’s life.

“We’ve been working with Atlas for almost 15 years across our crushing, civil and mining businesses, and I look forward to working with them once again on the McPhee Creek project,” Thiess Group executive and MACA chief executive officer David Greig said at the time.

GINA RINEHART.

Fellow iron ore major Mineral Resources (MinRes) is also on the docket, having secured a key crushing services contract for the mine.

The five-year contract was awarded to MinRes’ mining services arm CSI Mining Services, for the supply and

IMAGE: BJP7IMAGES/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

ne of Australia’s most influential mining magnates has achieved a significant milestone.

In late September, Atlas Iron, owned

by Gina Rinehart through her company Hancock Prospecting, was given the green light to break ground at the McPhee iron ore mine in Western Australia.

Located approximately 100km north of Hancock’s Roy Hill mine and 30km north of Nullagine, the McPhee Creek mine was expected to produce its first ore in 2023.

But the road to production was bumpier than initially hoped, with various environmental and regulatory hurdles resulting in Atlas Iron pushing the milestone back to 2025.

“The McPhee project has a very small footprint, only 1.5 per cent of Australia’s current iron ore exports, and will use existing processing, rail and port infrastructure,” Hancock Prospecting projects chief executive Sanjiv Manchanda said when the approval was first announced.

“Yet (it) was referred for a long approval process in early 2021 and

IMAGE: ROY HILL

GINA RINEHART’S ATLAS IRON HAS BEEN GIVEN FINAL APPROVAL BY THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT TO BUILD A NEW IRON ORE MINE IN THE PILBARA.

THE DEMAND FOR AUSTRALIAN IRON ORE IS CONTINUING TO GROW.

AUSTRALIANMINING 63 NOVEMBER 2024

operation of a 10-million-tonne-peryear primary crushing plant, fed by Atlas Iron via dump trucks or frontend loaders.

“It’s fantastic to strengthen our partnership with Atlas Iron, with CSI also currently providing crushing services for their Sanjiv Ridge mining operations and crushing and haulage operations for Roy Hill,” MinRes mining services chief executive Mike Grey said.

CSI is scheduled to mobilise to the McPhee site in late 2024 to commence construction activities ahead of crushing in the second quarter of 2025.

The company has worked with Roy Hill since 2017 and has continued to build an ongoing relationship with the major, leading to the current collaboration at McPhee.

The project is well supported by the Rinehart ecosystem. Atlas is collaborating with other Hancock Prospecting companies like Roy Hill and HanRoy on long-term growth options for the project.

Primary crushed ore will be hauled via road train from McPhee to Roy Hill for processing, followed by transport to port and shipping.

McPhee is estimated to create 500 new jobs during the construction phase and up to 300 new full-time roles once the mine is operational.

Local and international hunger for Australian iron ore is continuing to grow, and now the world won’t have long to wait. AM

IMAGE: PRIME CREATIVE MEDIA

PROSPECT AWARDS

THE 2024 AUSTRALIAN MINING PROSPECT AWARDS CELEBRATED WORTHY WINNERS ACROSS A NUMBER OF CATEGORIES.

CELEBRATING THE 2024 PROSPECT AWARDS WINNERS THE 2024 AUSTRALIAN MINING PROSPECT AWARDS WAS A NIGHT OF CELEBRATION, RECOGNITION AND CONNECTION.

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or more than a decade, the Australian Mining Prospect Awards has recognised those who go above and beyond in the mining industry – and the 2024 iteration, held on October 9, was no exception.

Keep reading to discover the worthy winners.

Indigenous & Community Engagement Award – sponsored

by Sandvik

Winner: Buru Rehab Recognising collaboration between either an Aboriginal-owned business or a community organisation, and mining and minerals processing companies operating within Australia, Buru Rehab was the worthy winner of this award.

A partnership with Mineral Resources (MinRes), Buru Rehab was entrusted with a five-year contract to manage road maintenance and civil works at MinRes’ Wodgina lithium mine in Western Australia.

Discovery of the Year

Winner: IGO Limited Celebrating a significant discovery at either a greenfields or brownfields site, the Discovery of the Year award went home with IGO for its Dogleg nickel-copper-cobalt prospect in Western Australia.

IGO’s exploration team made the discovery of nickel-copper-cobalt mineralisation at Dogleg in 2023, a rare deposit in Australia.

The new discovery could lead to multiple new nickel mines in the region, making them important feedstocks for Australia’s downstream nickel ambitions.

Excellence in Environmental Management and Sustainability – sponsored by Sefar Filter Specialists

Winner: BHP West Musgrave project The Excellence in Environmental Management and Sustainability award recognises a mine that has developed a pioneering program to protect, preserve and/or rehabilitate the natural environment.

BHP’s West Musgrave project in Western Australia took home the award thanks to its land access and disturbance permit (LADP) system. The LADP system facilitates engagement with the Ngaanyatjarra community, the Traditional Owners of the land.

Excellence in Mine Safety, OH&S – sponsored by Geographe Winner: Roy Hill The Excellence in Mine Safety, OH&S award recognises a mine, company, or project that has developed or carried out a program that increased safety, removes risk, or cuts worker issues.

Roy Hill’s ‘Safer Summer’ program was the worthy winner of this category.

The program was design to enhance safety awareness and practices during the high-risk summer period.

The campaign has successfully reduced recordable injuries by 36 per cent compared to the previous summer season.

Excellence in IIoT Application – sponsored by ifm

Winner: Orica Digital Solutions Recognising an outstanding implementation of IIoT that enhances mining and minerals processing operations, Orica Digital Solutions won this award for its BlastIQ Underground.

BlastIQ Underground provides quality control and improved drill and blast productivity for superior blast outcomes, enabling underground operators to efficiently manage their blasting processing from planning to post-blast analysis.

Innovative Mining Solution – sponsored by Austmine

Winner: IPI Australia This award recognises a mine, company, or project that has developed a unique mining solution, and IPI Australia took home the prize for its shaft alignment system (SAS) to address common conveyor challenges.

Intended to be a permanent fixture to pulley bearing housings, IPI’s SAS safeguards correct factory seal alignment and eliminate the need for seal adjustment when a pulley is landed on a conveyor structure.

Mine Project Success of the Year

Winner: Robson Civil Projects This award recognises a significant engineering and/or contract mining project that has been undertaken on a mine site.

Robson Civil Projects took home this award for the carrying out of the Maxwell underground project at the Muswellbrook underground coal mine.

Thanks to the project’s success, coal production was achieved in March 2023, enabling the mine to meet its first coal train milestone.

Project Lead of the Year – sponsored by Regal Rexnord

Winner: Claude Mocellin, South32 Awarded to an individual who has led a project or mine site to a successful

outcome, the Project Lead of the Year category at this year’s Prospect Awards celebrated Claude Mocellin as the winner for his leadership in South32’s Dendrobium Area 3C expansion project.

Mocellin led a multi-year initiative that brought about significant improvements to safety, operational efficiency, and environmental sustainability.

Under his leadership, the team conducted mock emergency evacuations and rewarded strong safety behaviour, contributing to a program that experienced zero recordable injuries.

Safety Advocate of the Year

Winner: Lani Hilder, Glow Getter Therapy & Coaching This award seeks to recognise an individual that is committed to ensuring safety – either for an individual site or company, or for the mining industry as a whole.

Lani Hilder, founder of Glow Getter Therapy & Coaching, took home this award in 2024.

A steadfast advocate for safety within the mining industry, Hilder actively promotes the wellbeing of miners through her MINDGUARD Pro program, prioritising mental health awareness and support.

Australian Mine of the Year – sponsored by Bonfiglioli

SC LEA

Winner: Roy Hill for its Roy Hill iron ore operation

Outstanding Mine Performance – sponsored by SEW-EURODRIVE Winner: Mineral Resources for its Wodgina and Mt Marion lithium mines AM

AUSTRALIANMINING 64 NOVEMBER 2024

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MINEXPO 2024

A MEGA MINING EXTRAVAGANZA AUSTRALIAN MINING SHINES A LIGHT ON SOME OF THE MOST NOTABLE DEVELOPMENTS FROM MINEXPO 2024.

Liebherr and Fortescue

Fortescue used MINExpo 2024 as an opportunity to announce a $US2.8 billion ($4 billion) partnership with Liebherr for the delivery of carbon-free mining solutions.

Fortescue confirmed Liebherr will deliver 455 zero-emission machines to the iron ore giant, comprising 360 autonomous battery-electric trucks, 55 electric excavators and 60 batterypowered dozers.

Fortescue founder and executive chair Andrew Forrest was at the event, where the companies also unveiled the jointly developed autonomous battery-electric T 264 truck.

“Partnerships with companies and people like Liebherr and Willi Liebherr – where ambition is backed by action – are critical,” Forrest said.

“This is an important next step in our 2030 Real Zero target – to eliminate emissions from our Australian iron ore operations by the end of the decade.

“We can together be the trailblazers who forge the world’s move away from fossil fuels.”

The influx of zero-emission equipment will represent about twothirds of the current mining fleet at Fortescue’s operations.

Liebherr and Fortescue are committed to having a comprehensive and large-scale zero-emission mining ecosystem operational by 2030 as part of its future goals.

Both companies have confirmed that, through their continued cooperation, customers will be able to access this ecosystem for their own operations in the coming years.

Fortescue will also collaborate with Downer to jointly design and develop what is expected to be the world’s most energy efficient batteryelectric locomotive.

“We strongly believe that developing and enhancing green technology is key to addressing climate change,” Fortescue Energy chief executive officer Mark Hutchinson said.

“This collaboration not only creates the opportunity to help Fortescue reach its own decarbonisation targets, it also establishes an important new business growth opportunity.”

The design and development of zero-emissions battery electric train solutions has the potential to reduce emissions significantly.

A typical heavy haul diesel-electric locomotive can consume one million litres of fuel per year, which equates to 2680 tonnes of carbon dioxide.

Liebherr also inked a new global framework agreement with BHP at MINExpo this year, solidifying Liebherr as one BHP’s preferred mining equipment suppliers.

The agreement strengthens the

companies’ collaborative efforts with the aim of advancing operational innovation and reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across BHP’s global operations.

Together, they aim to continue pushing the boundaries of operational efficiency while facilitating GHG emissions reduction in BHP’s operations.

The BHP–Liebherr partnership spans two decades and has seen the deployment of Liebherr ultraclass excavators across BHP’s global assets, including R 9600 Generation 8 machines.

Notably, BHP’s South Flank iron ore operation in the Pilbara region of Western Australia received its first R 9600 in March 2020.

Komatsu

Komatsu made a myriad of announcements at MINExpo 2024, including the introduction of the new HD465-10 and HD605-10 mechanical haul trucks to the North America market.

The Tier 1 original equipment manufacturer also introduced two GHH machines, which have officially been rebranded after Komatsu acquired GHH Group GmbH in July.

The WX15 Load-Haul-Dump (LHD) machine (formerly GHH LF-14) and the HX45 mining truck (formerly GHH MK-45) made their debut, with both machines designed to promote operator safety and productivity in underground mines.

Elsewhere, Komatsu launched the Z3 series, a new line of medium-size class development jumbo drill rigs and bolters, and introduced the HRX800 sizer, boosting its hard-rock crushing equipment portfolio in the process.

Komatsu also announced its acquisition of Chile digital solutions provider Octodots Analytics as the company expands its artificial intelligence capabilities.

This acquisition goes hand-in-hand with the announcement of Komatsu’s new modular ecosystem, serving as a key platform for the future of mine optimisation and data sharing.

Epiroc

Epiroc had a busy MINExpo 2024, unveiling a new product line for surface mining autonomy and making a series of product announcements.

The new Minetruck MT66 S eDrive was on display at MINExpo, the first of Epiroc’s large-capacity mine trucks to feature the latest generation electric drivetrain.

IMAGE: LIEBHERR

M

INExpo brought another jam-packed edition to Las Vegas in September, reaffirming its place as the world’s largest mining show.

The exhibition floor spanned the equivalent of 14 American football fields, with more than 2000 exhibitors demonstrating the latest in mine technology and innovation.

The mining sector’s biggest players strutted their stuff during MINExpo 2024, reserving many exclusive announcements for the event.

New collaborations were formalised, and existing partnerships extended, all with the shared objective to support the continued evolution of the global mining industry, particularly with decarbonisation as the backdrop.

To celebrate the festivities of MINExpo 2024, here are the some of the biggest announcements made at the event.

LIEBHERR AND BHP SIGNED A GLOBAL FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT AT MINEXPO 2024.

AUSTRALIANMINING 66 NOVEMBER 2024

IMAGE: KOMATSU

MINEXPO 2024

THE HX45 MINING TRUCK, WHICH KOMATSU LAUNCHED AT MINEXPO 2024.

Epiroc also launched the latest generation SmartROC CL surface drill rig at MINExpo 2024.

This machine uses the COPROD technique, which combines the high-penetration rates normally only achieved in top-hammer drilling with the superior hole quality that comes with down-the-hole (DTH) drilling.

The SmartROC CL includes a nextgeneration 50-kilowatt rock drill called COP QM50CR, which is more reliable, durable and has a lower total cost of ownership than its predecessor.

“The higher efficiency of the COP QM50CR itself, together with the upgraded rig control system, also makes a significant contribution to overall energy efficiency,” Epiroc surface global product manager Mattias Hjerpe said.

“In fact, the new generation SmartROC CL also burns 45 per cent less fuel compared to traditional DTH drilling which makes it a more sustainable alternative.”

XCMG

XCMG showcased its largest-ever lineup of mining equipment at MINExpo

IMAGE: EPIROC

The truck boasts several upgrades, including weight reduction and better utilisation of the engine’s sweet spot.

This enables the machine to achieve up to 11 per cent higher ramp speed compared to other models.

“Minetruck MT66 S eDrive has been built from scratch with room for an additional tonne in the box, making it the largest capacity underground mine truck on the market,” Epiroc underground president Wayne Symes said. “By combining power with innovation, it really is the best of two worlds.”

2024, featuring a diverse array of excavators, dump trucks, drill rigs, and loaders.

The XE950G hydraulic excavator, the XC978U wheel loader, the XDA45U articulated dump truck, the XE490U crawler excavator, and the XQZ152 down-the-hole drill were on show at the event.

The XE950G hydraulic excavator has been specially designed for the often-harsh environment of mining, combining strong operating and economic performance with superior digging power and operating efficiency.

The XE490U crawler excavator has been built for demanding tasks and is equipped with an electronically controlled positive flow system for quick responsiveness, wear-resistant structural components, and a highstrength steel cab for increased safety.

“We are dedicated to developing customised products that meet the specific needs of our North American customers, while also capitalising on the global shift towards smart and sustainable mining,” XCMG deputy general manager Liu Quan said.

“Looking ahead, we aspire to provide a wider array of options for our North American clientele and envision XCMG mining equipment becoming a common sight in key construction projects throughout the area.”

With the global mining industry undergoing a generational shift, where the digital transformation of the sector is being met with the need to decarbonise, MINExpo returned at an important time, enabling critical insights to be shared and groundbreaking technologies to be discovered. AM

THE NEW MINETRUCK MT66 S EDRIVE, WHICH EPIROC HAD ON DISPLAY AT MINEXPO 2024.

AUSTRALIANMINING 67 NOVEMBER 2024

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MINEXPO 2024

IMAGES: SANDVIK

THE ACS-C FIVE.

k

CRUSHING AND SCREENING MADE EASY ATTENDEES OF MINEXPO 2024 WERE TREATED TO SANDVIK’S LATEST LINE-UP OF ECO-EFFICIENT ROCK PROCESSING SOLUTIONS.

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rom September 24–26, Las Vegas was awash with the global mining industry’s most influential names at MINExpo 2024 – and Sandvik Rock Processing Solutions was among them.

Sandvik took the opportunity to showcase its latest line-up of ecoefficient rock processing solutions designed to address the increasing demand for safe, efficient, reliable and cost-effective operations.

These include the Sandvik 800i cone crusher series, featuring the new ACS-c five automation system, and the newly expanded range of vibrating screens and feeders equipped with the ACS-s condition monitoring system.

According to Sandvik Rock Processing Solutions president Richard Harris, Sandvik leverages digitalisation as a cornerstone of its innovation and cutting-edge technologies, significantly enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of crushing and screening operations.

“Not only is our latest equipment easier to operate, manage, maintain and service, but it also contributes to our industry’s desire to reduce its environmental impact,” Harris said.

“Through our close partnerships with customers and our unwavering focus on innovation, we are shaping a future where rock processing is eco-efficient, productive and sustainable.”

The Sandvik 800i cone crusher series reflects the company’s commitment to the continuous evolution of design, materials and technology.

The latest models, integrated with the new ACS-c five automation system, combine robust mechanical design with powerful, user-friendly automation, supporting diverse operational needs.

With ACS-c five, plant operators and maintenance personnel gain access to valuable operational insights, enabling smoother operations and improved target achievement.

These innovations, coupled with Sandvik’s remote and on-site services, help support the industry’s shift towards a long-term, sustainable approach.

BOTH ACS-C FIVE AND ACS-S ARE INTEGRATED WITH SAM BY SANDVIK, THE COMPANY’S CLOUD-BASED DIGITAL ASSISTANT.

AUSTRALIANMINING 69 NOVEMBER 2024

And thanks to some recent key acquisitions, Sandvik now offers an expanded line-up of heavy-duty vibrating screens and feeders adapted to the world’s toughest mineral processing applications, with machines capable of up to 8800 tonnes per hour.

This range is now being enhanced by the new ACS-s condition monitoring system for vibrating screens and feeders, providing real-time data that enables operators and technicians to make informed maintenance decisions, improving operational efficiency and maximising uptime.

Both ACS-c five and ACS-s are seamlessly integrated with SAM by Sandvik, the company’s cloud-based digital assistant designed to support operational excellence in crushing and screening plants.

SAM captures data from all connected Sandvik equipment, offering a comprehensive overview of the entire operation. Operators can monitor equipment status, communicate across teams, receive alerts and notifications and proactively order spare parts, all from a centralised platform.

Sandvik’s newly launched solutions are engineered to reduce energy consumption, minimise waste and optimise operational efficiency.

These advancements can assist companies seeking to improve their environmental footprint while delivering high performance results. AM

INDUSTRY EVENTS

A PREMIER MINING SHOWCASE IMAGES: PRIME CREATIVE MEDIA

THE 2024 WA MINING CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION WAS A MUST-SEE EVENT FOR ANYONE IN THE MINING INDUSTRY.

THE DECARBONISATION SHOWCASE SHONE THE SPOTLIGHT ON HIGH-QUALITY SOLUTIONS.

T

he 2024 WA Mining Conference and Exhibition (WA Mining) was the place to be from October 9–10.

Held at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, WA Mining brought together key stakeholders to explore innovative solutions and discuss the future of the industry in Western Australia.

With a focus on sustainability, technology, and critical minerals, the event highlighted the state’s vital role in the global mining ecosystem.

Western Australia has long been called a powerhouse of mineral production, contributing significantly to the global supply of iron ore, lithium, gold, and other critical minerals.

WA Mining 2024 showcased how the state is adapting to shifting market demands, particularly in response to the growing need for sustainable mining practices and the push for a low-carbon economy.

A packed conference program was a particular highlight, with mining giant Rio Tinto headlining a panel discussion and presentations covering a breadth of

the resources sector, examining areas such as decarbonisation, tech-driven mining operations, and developing a circular economy.

Building on the success of last year’s show, WA Mining 2024 featured an expanded range of exhibitors, with big names including Epiroc, ifm, Motion, RaptorTech and Blackwoods.

A PACKED CONFERENCE PROGRAM WAS A PARTICULAR HIGHLIGHT OF WA MINING.

Innovation in mining technology

Technology and innovation were at the forefront of WA Mining 2024, with several exhibitors and speakers highlighting cutting-edge tools designed to improve mining efficiency and safety.

Automation, artificial intelligence (AI) and digital twin technology were among the most discussed trends, with companies showcasing how they are deploying these innovations to streamline operations and enhance decision-making.

Several exhibitors showcased AIpowered solutions aimed at optimising resource extraction and reducing waste. These tools are enabling mining companies to make real-time adjustments to operations, improving overall efficiency.

Decarbonisation

Decarbonisation is a hot topic in today’s mining industry, and WA Mining 2024 ensured there was a showcase dedicated to driving the discussion.

The Decarbonisation Showcase shone the spotlight on high-quality solutions driving this key area of the industry.

AUSTRALIANMINING 70 NOVEMBER 2024

Some of the key decarbonisation players exhibiting their energy efficient technologies included Allight, Remote Energy, SCIG, Earthtrack Group, SIGMA Air Conditioning, and Sustainext.

There was also a panel discussion exploring the changing view of decarbonisation from an obligation to an opportunity.

INDUSTRY EVENTS

TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION WERE AT THE FOREFRONT OF WA MINING 2024.

Decarbonate managing director Brendon Tapley, one of the panel speakers, said decarbonisation can present unprecedented obstacles for mining companies.

“Decarbonisation is a big challenge, and what’s more challenging is that the government is requiring public disclosure on the nature of those risks,” he said.

“For a lot of companies, there’s a learning process to understand how to identify and quantify risk in financial terms, where it comes to climate related risks, both physical and transitional.

“There’s also opportunities: tapping into the growing demand for green, critical minerals.”

MEC Mining chief executive officer Christofer Catania said viewing decarbonisation as an opportunity comes from understanding what the future holds and working out how the potential of an asset can be shaped.

“Decarbonisation really is a huge opportunity where, if you look at it from the right lens, you can be ahead of your competitors,” he said.

“To be first to the table means you can not only control but contribute to the conversation, as opposed to receiving everyone else’s outputs that may not be fit for purpose.

“Having a seat at the table and helping guide that path forward is important for all different areas in the industry. Even as consultants, being able to help influence that conversation in the right direction, allows us to be able to help shape those solutions and have a positive impact on it.”

Critical minerals

Another major focus of WA Mining 2024 was the role of critical minerals in the global energy transition.

As the world shifts towards renewable energy and electric vehicles (EVs), the demand for minerals like

THE DECARBONISATION SHOWCASE SHONE THE SPOTLIGHT ON HIGH-QUALITY SOLUTIONS.

lithium, cobalt, and copper is set to skyrocket.

Western Australia is well-positioned to become a key player in the supply of these minerals, and WA Mining featured several discussions on how the state can capitalise on this opportunity.

Workforce development was another critical topic, as the mining sector faces ongoing challenges in attracting and retaining skilled workers.

Several panel discussions focused on strategies for promoting mining careers, with a particular focus on increasing diversity and inclusion within the workforce. The need to invest in the next generation of workers was underscored, as the industry faces a looming skills shortage in areas like automation, engineering, and environmental science.

The Australian Mining Prospect Awards

Mining’s most prestigious awards program found a new home at WA Mining in 2024.

The esteemed Australian Mining Prospect Awards has celebrated and rewarded innovation across the country’s resources for over a decade.

There were 12 deserving winners on the night, including Claude Mochellin, who took home the Project Lead of the Year award for his leadership in South32’s Dendrobium Area 3C expansion project.

Some of the other awards on the night included BHP’s West Musgrave project taking out the Excellence in Environmental Management and Sustainability award and the Innovative Mining Solution award going to IPI Australia for its shaft alignment system.

AUSTRALIANMINING 71 NOVEMBER 2024

Bright future for WA Mining

As the team gears up for WA Mining 2025, it is increasingly clear that Western Australia’s mining industry is well-prepared to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

The 2024 event highlighted the sector’s resilience, adaptability, and commitment to innovation, ensuring that it will continue to play a vital role in the global mining landscape.

With its strong emphasis on sustainability, technology, and critical minerals, WA Mining 2024 provided valuable insights into the future direction of the industry, reinforcing Western Australia’s position as a global mining leader.

This must-attend event is confirmed for a return in 2025. AM

IMAGES: PRIME CREATIVE MEDIA

PNG EXPO

THE EXHIBITION RAN CONCURRENTLY WITH THE CONFERENCE.

GEARING UP FOR PNG EXPO 2025 THE DATES HAVE BEEN SET FOR THE 2025 PNG INDUSTRIAL AND MINING RESOURCES EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE.

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fter a highly successful two-day event in July 2024, the stage has been set once again for the PNG Industrial and Mining Resources Exhibition and Conference (PNG Expo) to shine a light on the Papua New Guinea (PNG) resources sector in 2025.

To again be held at the Stanley Hotel in Port Moresby from July 2–3, the 2025 PNG Expo is set to bigger and better than ever.

“We came away from the 2024 PNG Expo with some key lessons that we can apply to our 2025 program,” show director Siobhan Rocks said.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming more attendees, exhibitors and speakers to the Stanley Hotel from in July 2025.”

Like this year, the 2025 PNG Expo will feature a number of key networking events that attendees can use to get to know each other. These include the breakfast event and gala dinner on day one.

“Both of these events sold out quickly this year, as everyone was eager to connect and catch up before the conference and exhibition began,” Rocks said.

“The dinner at the end of day one was a good opportunity to speak about the presentations from the day

THE NETWORKING EVENTS SOLD OUT QUICKLY IN 2024.

and learn what everyone was looking forward to as we entered day two.”

Attendees of the 2024 PNG Expo said the conference program was a particular highlight of the twoday event.

Conference speakers included Austrade country manager PNG Titus Hela and business development manager Kembol Kaikipae speaking to Austrade’s perspective on doing business in PNG, and Green Finance Centre (Bank of PNG) director Mohinesh Prasad speaking about creating a better environment through financial institutions for green and sustainable investments.

The exhibition ran concurrently as the conference speakers took to the stage.

A great turn out at the expo saw some big names setting up shop for the two days, with silver sponsor Islands Petroleum on-hand to speak to the future of PNG’s fuel industry.

“Supporting the PNG EXPO offers Islands Petroleum an opportunity to exhibit our brand, quality products, and dependable services while also fostering connections with key industry players,” Islands Petroleum marketing manager Kavitha Bluett said.

“Most importantly, sponsoring such an event underscores our dedication to both our community and the

AUSTRALIANMINING 72 NOVEMBER 2024

advancement of Papua New Guinea’s resources sector.”

The 2024 PNG Expo print partner BizPrint and Scan, along with its parent company Remington Group, also attended the exhibition.

“We see our participation in the PNG Expo as a tangible and valuable opportunity to showcase our commitment to the PNG resources sector,” Remington Group chief executive officer Peter Goodwin said.

“We aim to forge meaningful connections with industry players by taking part in events like this, where we can showcase our expertise and innovative business print and scan solutions.

“Our partnerships with local stakeholders further demonstrates our loyalty and commitment to sustainable development and long-term growth in PNG and the Pacific region.”

Now, as the team gears up for 2025, Rocks is excited about the future of the PNG Expo.

“Seeing the level of engagement and connections made at the 2024 PNG Expo was incredibly rewarding,” she said. “It was a real privilege to witness the collaboration and innovation that came from this year’s event. As we take those learnings into 2025, I know we will only continue to grow this vital event.” AM

INDUSTRY EVENTS

DIGGING DEEPER SOUTH AUSTRALIA WILL PLAY HOST TO A NUMBER OF INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS AT UNDERGROUND OPERATORS 2025.

IMAGES: AUSIMM

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fter a successful event in 2023, AusIMM’s Underground Operators (UgOps) Conference is back and bigger than ever.

Held at the Adelaide Convention Centre from April 7–9, UgOps 2025 is the premier place for industry professionals to gather and discuss some of the most important topics in the underground mining industry right now.

Glencore project manager and UgOps committee member Alastair Grubb spoke to Australian Mining about what attendees can expect from the bumper three-day event.

“There’s no hiding the fact that underground mining is becoming more challenging,” Grubb said. “Grades are lower, we need to mine deeper, and the complexity of orebodies is increasing.

“Because of this, UgOps 2025 is one of the most important events on the calendar; it’s all about sharing knowledge to help one another.”

With keynote speeches from some of the most respected names in the industry – including Adriatic Metals interim chief executive officer and BHP former chief technical officer Laura Tyler and Vale Base Metals chair Mark Cutifani – and a large number of submitted abstracts, there will be something for everyone at the event.

“I’m particularly keen to read papers about novel approaches to new technology,” Grubb said.

“We’ve also got really experienced executive-level leaders who are coming to give keynotes on their work in the underground sector.

“We’re giving the audience a chance to be a part of the discussion, with a question-and-answer format embedded in some of the talks.”

UgOps 2025 will cover a wide range of topics, from health and safety to the global decarbonisation journey.

Grubb said Adelaide provides the perfect backdrop to these important discussions.

“South Australia is home to numerous Tier 1 operations, including BHP’s Olympic Dam copper mine,” he said.

“Previously, UgOps has been held in Brisbane and Perth, but Adelaide is due its turn given the importance of its mining industry and the development of new assets there.”

Olympic Dam is one of the largest underground mines in the country,

ADELAIDE WILL GET ITS CHANCE TO SHINE AS THE HOST OF UGOPS 2025.

hitting production rates of over 300,000 tonnes of copper per year.

It’s also a technologically advanced mine, helping to set the standard for underground ore recovery across the country.

“By coming to UgOps, attendees will get the chance to learn about and leverage the work companies like BHP have been doing to progress in difficult mining conditions,” Grubb said.

“I would encourage anyone involved in the industry, no matter what country they’re from, to come along and get involved.”

Given the wealth of abstract submissions, UgOps 2025 is providing the perfect platform for sharing underground operational experiences and industry best practice.

“We’ve had the largest number of abstracts submitted in UgOps history, with a lot of topic diversity,” Grubb said.

“Mining can be an isolating industry, so events like this are important to bring everyone together and share knowledge. And having a little fun in the process doesn’t hurt.”

And fun is firmly on the cards at UgOps 2025, with AusIMM organising an in-house photography competition and a number of conference tours.

“People can choose between touring several sites in South Australia, Broken Hill or Bendigo,” Grubb said.

“We’re also encouraging amateur photographers to submit photos

A STRONG SPEAKER LINEUP HAS POSITIONED THE CONFERENCE AS A MUST-ATTEND EVENT.

from their underground assets and a professional photographer will be judging the competition.

“It’s hard to get nice photos of underground operations, so it will be good to see pictures of some of the assets we’ve heard so much about.

“UgOps is really continuing to push

AUSTRALIANMINING 74 NOVEMBER 2024

the boundaries of a typical conference, and we’re passionate about ensuring ideas on underground mining are not only shared across Australia, but also across the world.” AM UgOps 2025 will be held at the Adelaide Convention Centre from April 7–9.

PRINT ENEWS +

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PNG’S COPPER RESOURCES Profiling some of the biggest copper mines in the region HELPING HANDS AMID DISASTER

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OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNER TH E PR EM SEC TO R UR CE NESWS SO RE SOIER UR CE FO GU INE A R TH E PA A NE W PU A NE TH E PA PU W GU INE CE FO R A RE SO UR WS SO UR CE S SEC THE PREMIER NEWS SOURCE FOR THE PAPUA NEW GUINEA RESOURCES SECTOR TO R

PNG Mining is a high-quality, multi-platform publication focused on the mining industry in Papua New Guinea and surrounding region.

The magazine shines a spotlight on some of the most important sectors in Papua New Guinea. From copper to gold and silver to oil and gas, it covers the length and breadth of the country’s resources sector.

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THE PREMIER NEWS SOURCE FOR THE PAPUA NEW GUINEA RESOURCES SECTOR

PRODUCTS

STEEL SLEEVE BEARINGS BY SIBO

Sibo specialises in crafting premium steel sleeve bearings, also known as bushings, which are critical components for diverse industrial uses.

These bearings are particularly crucial in the mining industry as they ensure the seamless operation of heavy machinery.

Sibo’s sleeve bearings fit various types of equipment, like drilling machines, quarrying machinery, dumpers, and excavators, and can withstand tough conditions such as high pressures and heavy loads.

Sibo’s sleeve bearings can also minimise friction and wear between moving components, improving the efficiency and longevity of equipment.

Sibo also offers flanged steel bearings, which are equipped with a flange capable of withstanding radial and axial loads.

Ideal for precision-demanding applications, Sibo offers these bearings in customised variations, including different groove types upon customer request.

Sibo offers bespoke bushings, tailored to the customers’ specifications, ensuring adaptability with a broad array of applications.

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A GAME-CHANGER IN HIGH-PRESSURE FILTRATION

THE VECOW ECX-3200

Hengst Filtration has launched its latest addition to the inline filter series: the 250LEN series inline filter.

The 250LEN series is designed to enhance the efficiency and productivity of hydraulic machinery and industrial equipment while minimising operational costs.

With a maximum operating pressure of 250 bar, this new filter series offers strong performance under pressure for demanding environments.

The 250LEN series incorporates an optimised flow path that significantly improves differential pressure and enhances separation capabilities. This innovation results in a low Delta P value.

From sizes 250LEN0160-0400, the 250LEN series is equipped with additional side mounting, offering greater flexibility for installation in various industrial setups.

For added convenience, Mini-Mess connections are available as an option from size 250LEN0160-0400 onwards, providing further customisation to meet specific applications.

The 250LEN filter’s head has an innovative non-circular design that enhances the overall durability of the filter, increasing the lifecycle of the filter to an impressive two million cycles.

The VECOW ECX-3200 is a highperformance, fan-less embedded system tailored for the rigorous demands of the mining industry.

Powered by the 14th Gen Intel Core i9/i7/ i5/i3 processors and featuring the Intel R680E PCH, this system supports CPUs up to 65W TDP, providing a workstationgrade platform for mining operations.

The ECX-3200 is equipped with up to 64GB of DDR5 4800MHz memory, ensuring high-level performance and reliability in complex data processing tasks.

The system is uniquely designed for operation in extreme conditions, capable of functioning in temperatures ranging from -40°C to 75°C, making it perfectly suited for the harsh and varied environments typically found at mine sites. The system’s fan-less design also helps reduce maintenance needs and enhances longevity.

The ECX-3200 boasts four independent 2.5GigE IEEE 802.3at PoE+ LAN ports and two GigE LAN ports, facilitating rapid data transfer and seamless integration, and its expandability includes a PCIe x16 slot with a 200W power budget, multiple M.2, mini PCIe slots, and optional SUMIT A and B slots.

• hengst.com.au

IMAGE: HENGST FILTRATION

IMAGE: CRUSADER HOSE

Crusader Hose’s Waterlord mine dewatering hose is compact, easy to handle and simple to deploy.

The hose is available in continuous lengths of up to 200m and comes in a range of diameters from 40mm up to 305mm and can achieve over 500L per second.

Waterlord is a heavyduty and reliable layflat mine dewatering hose constructed by weaving a textile reinforcement with high-tenacity polyester fibres and using a thermoplastic polyurethane thru-the-weave extrusion.

Suitable on rugged terrain, Waterlord is proven to handle high-working pressure and abrasion. With a tight bend radius, the hose can snake around various topographical features. Reusable, UV resistant and easily stored, the layflat hose dewatering system leaves no plastic waste behind.

Crusader Hose, a proud Australian company for over 38 years, is the layflat hose design and manufacture innovator. The company understands the need for operational efficiency in mine dewatering and for reliable, easy-to-use equipment to support worker safety compliance.

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AUSTRALIANMINING 76 NOVEMBER 2024

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IMAGE: SIBO

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EVENTS

CONFERENCES, SEMINARS AND WORKSHOPS EVENT SUBMISSIONS CAN BE EMAILED TO TOM.PARKER@PRIMECREATIVE.COM.AU

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Underground Operators Conference 2025 Adelaide | April 7–9 At Underground Operators 2025, the mining industry will address the demand for more intelligent and cost-effective ways to extract orebodies and explore new technologies that are making it possible to mine at greater depths.

Discussions will focus on health and safety, mine ventilation, social licencing, technology, automation, and the global journey toward net-zero.

Over 1500 mining engineers, operators, technical service managers and consultants from around the world will be in attendance, with a strong keynote speaker lineup scheduled throughout the two days.

Delegates can expect a unique showcase of new technologies, services and over 100 industry-leading organisations on the exhibition floor.

• ausimm.com/conferences-andevents/underground-operators Mineral Resource Estimation Conference 2025 Perth | May 7–8 AusIMM’s Mineral Resources Estimation Conference 2025 is expected to bring together over 500 geologists, geostatisticians, software solution providers and other resources professionals from across the globe to challenge the status quo of mineral

resource estimation and share leading best practice examples.

The conference aims to showcase leading best practice, case studies and research on mineral resource estimation and the software applications required, facilitating open exchange of information, with interactive sessions, panel discussions and keynote presentations alongside case studies and peerreview papers.

Session topics will showcase the latest advancements and leading examples in 3D geological and estimation domain modelling, geostatistical analysis, estimation, validation, risk analysis, and reporting • ausimm.com/conferences-andevents/mineral-resource-estimation Global Resources Innovation Expo Brisbane | May 20–22 The Global Resources Innovation Expo (GRX) is an industry-led conference and exhibition hosted by Austmine in partnership with AusIMM. It represents an exciting evolution from past Austmine conferences, with GRX25 poised to become an annual global event for the international resources industry.

GRX25 connects attendees with global leaders, allowing them to discover cutting-edge solutions and engage in insightful discussions that drive progress.

GRX25 will feature some of the most influential voices in technology, emerging industries, mining and resources.

• grx.au PNG Industrial & Mining Resources Exhibition and Conference 2025 Port Moresby, PNG | July 2–3 The 2025 PNG Industrial & Mining Resources Exhibition will showcase over 100 local, national and international manufacturers and suppliers with the latest innovations in the supply of services and equipment for the industrial, mining and oil & gas sectors.

The two-day exhibition is the premier meeting place to connect and network with thousands of industry decisionmakers across a broad industry reach, including senior management, procurement, government personnel, engineers and contractors.

With extensive support from key stakeholders in government, associations and industry, PNG2025 will be a premier meeting place for industry trade and a forum for establishing high-quality customer contacts and conducting business.

• pngexpo.com APCOM Conference 2025 Perth | August 10–13 The Application of Computers and Operations Research in the Mining

AUSTRALIANMINING 78 NOVEMBER 2024

Industry (APCOM) Conference 2025 will address digitisation across the mining supply chain.

APCOM 2025 will bring together people working in digitally focused roles from across the international mining sector, attracting innovators, mining leaders, planning engineers, mine managers, geoscientists, operators and ESG professionals to Perth in August.

The conference program will include pre-conference workshops, an exhibition, networking opportunities and presentations by leading experts from across the globe.

• ausimm.com/conferences-andevents/apcom-2025 AIMEX 2025 Sydney | September 2–4 In 2025, Australia’s longest-running mining exhibition will return to Sydney Showground to bring together the largest community of mining suppliers and professionals all under one roof to drive innovation and collaboration.

As the key event on the mining calendar, Asia-Pacific’s International Mining Exhibition (AIMEX) is an internationally renowned platform showcasing the latest mining technology, equipment and services, and offering a unique opportunity for leading suppliers and buyers to conduct face-to-face business, learn about the latest trends and network in an interactive forum.

• aimex.com.au

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