Australian Mining May 2025 by Prime Group

AIMEX 2025 MINING CAREERS VOLUME 117/4 | MAY 2025

ALUMINIUM

REDEFINING EFFICIENCY

PRINT POST APPROVED PP100008185

SETTING A NEW MINING STANDARD

OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNERS

SERVING THE MINING INDUSTRY SINCE 1908

FORDVF1079_Ranger Super Duty_Australian Mining Placement _W235xH297mm.indd 1

1 / /2025

COMMENT

PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES TOM PARKER tom.parker@primecreative.com.au

FRONT COVER

THE AUSTRALIAN MINING INDUSTRY NEEDS TO BE BOLD IN ADOPTING NEW TECHNOLOGIES AND METHODOLOGIES FOR COMPANIES TO MEET THEIR ENVIRONMENTAL GOALS.

ccording to the Climate Change Authority’s 2024 ‘Sector Pathway Review’, emissions from Australia’s resources sector equalled 99 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2022, representing 23 per cent of the country’s total emissions in that year. For Australia to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, decarbonising the mining sector is key. Decarbonisation presents an opportunity rather than a roadblock, and there are myriad ways a mining operator can reduce their carbon footprint, which can start with refining existing processes to make them more efficient. Mineral processing is a clear low-hanging fruit in this regard, with technology driving improved ore recoveries and less waste. Bulk material handling is another sector where sustainability gains can be made, particularly in conveying. The May edition of Australian Mining provides an opportunity to showcase the OEMs, suppliers and innovators enabling a more efficient and optimised resources industry, with the intersection of digitalisation and cuttingedge machinery never more pertinent. XCMG graces the cover for this issue. The company is driving a new phase of mining efficiency by combining AI-powered fleet optimisation, hybrid-electric and autonomous vehicle technologies, and predictive maintenance analytics. This is enabling miners to achieve a range of benefits, including reduced idle time and fuel

consumption, lower emissions and downtime, and prolonged equipment life. We also spotlight Truflo Pumping Systems’ underground solutions, where dewatering systems are playing a pivotal role in keeping underground mines operational. Truflo is delivering reliable solutions to support these advancements. Elsewhere, we showcase Liebherr-Australia’s successful project at Yancoal’s Mount Thorley Warkworth operations, where the major OEM has repowered two R 9800 excavators with new D9812 12-cylinder engines. After BHP chief executive officer Mike Henry shed light on the major’s outlook at a recent Q&A session, we delve deep into the Big Australian’s iron ore strategy, which has been boosted by the ramp up of the South Flank mine in the Pilbara. This edition also takes the opportunity to spotlight the next wave of copper producers, while we also sit down with the CEO of Wyloo, an Andrew Forrest-owned company which has a multi-pronged nickel future. Asia-Pacific’s International Mining Exhibition (AIMEX) is also in the spotlight as it prepares for its first instalment in Adelaide in September. Happy reading.

DYLAN BROWN Email: dylan.brown@primecreative.com.au

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER CHRISTINE CLANCY

ELIZA FREEMAN Email: eliza.freeman@primecreative.com.au

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

Cover image: XCMG

Tom Parker Editor

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER JOHN MURPHY

SALES MANAGER JONATHAN DUCKETT Mob: 0498 091 027 Email: jonathan.duckett@primecreative.com.au BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGERS JAMES PHIPPS Mob: 0466 005 715 Email: james.phipps@primecreative.com.au

AUSTRALIANMINING 3 MAY 2025

Through its intelligent machinery, XCMG is pushing the envelope of what’s possible on a mine site. With seamless fleet management system compatibility and customer-driven autonomy, XCMG ensures mining companies can adopt smarter solutions without the headaches of system overhauls. This enables reduced cycle times with real-time, automated route adjustments, lower fuel consumption through AI-driven efficiency monitoring, and minimised unplanned downtime with predictive diagnostics. In an industry where every second counts, XCMG’s intelligent machinery is delivering real, measurable improvements in operational efficiency, helping mines move more material at a lower cost, with a smaller environmental footprint.

ROB O’BRYAN Mob: 0411 067 795 Email: robert.obryan@primecreative.com.au ART DIRECTOR MICHELLE WESTON michelle.weston@primecreative.com.au SUBSCRIPTION RATES Australia (surface mail) $120.00 (incl GST) Overseas A$149.00 For subscriptions enquiries please contact (03) 9690 8766 subscriptions@primecreative.com.au PRIME CREATIVE MEDIA 379 Docklands Drive, Docklands, Vic 3008 www.primecreative.com.au © Copyright Prime Creative Media, 2016

All rights reserved. No part of the publication December be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means without the written permission of the publisher. PRINTED BY THE PRECISION GROUP 83-89 Freight Drive. Somerton Vic 3062 Ph: 03 9490 1500 Published 11 issues a year

NOBODY REBUILDS BETTER COMPONENTS IN STOCK NOW At Hastings Deering, businesses working within the mining industry can now take advantage of a new industry leading warranty with every Cat® Certified Rebuild. Get ‘as-new’ performance and benefit from the multiple lives designed into Cat machines, at a fraction of the cost of buying new.

CALL 1300 186 248 OR VISIT HASTINGSDEERING.COM.AU *T&Cs apply

EXHD1228 HD NRB_Press Ad_235x297_FA.indd 1

31/3/2025 2:36 pm

5 2:36 pm

IN THIS ISSUE 22

10 8

IRON ORE

ALUMINIUM

EFFICIENCY AND OPTIMISATION

A new era in iron ore With demand from key markets such as China continuing to drive prices, BHP’s ability to deliver high-quality ore is paramount. From mine to market Australian Mining breaks down the importance of bauxite, alumina and aluminium for the country’s future.

EFFICIENCY AND OPTIMISATION

REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT

COPPER

Every second counts XCMG is revolutionising mining with open autonomy, AI-powered efficiency, and seamless integration.

Smarter mines, faster decisions AI-powered data analytics, secure infrastructure and robust connectivity are transforming the Australian mining sector. Mount Isa: A decades-long legacy Glencore’s Mount Isa copper operations are steeped in history. How is the company ensuring a smooth closure of the assets? The next wave of copper producers Copper, which has been used by humanity for more than 10,000 years, is needed now more than ever as a vital component for the energy transition.

INDUSTRY EVENTS

A beating drum Boss Energy boss Duncan Craib on what attendees can expect from the uranium miner’s presence at AIMEX 2025.

MINING CAREERS

The sky’s the limit Matthew Manns’ growth journey is just one of the success stories at leading mining services company National Group.

COMMUNITY

Fostering meaningful partnerships A supply agreement between Westgold Resources and Woollahra Group has bolstered Indigenous empowerment in Western Australia.

52 AUSTRALIANMINING 5 MAY 2025

IMAGE: RAWPIXEL.COM/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

FOLLOW THE LEADERS

FOLLOW THE LEADERS: THE LATEST EXECUTIVE APPOINTMENTS KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST EXECUTIVE MOVEMENTS ACROSS THE MINING SECTOR, FEATURING NRW, IGO AND GOLD ROAD.

GO chief financial officer (CFO) Kathleen Bozanic retired from the company in April to continue her nonexecutive career.

Bozanic was appointed as IGO CFO in 2022 after initially serving three years as the company’s non-executive director while also holding the title of chair of the audit and risk committee. “Kath has made a significant contribution to IGO since she stepped down from the board to take up her executive role as CFO,” IGO chief executive officer Ivan Vella said. “We are grateful that she has given us significant notice of her decision to return to non-executive roles, which will allow an orderly transition. “She started as CFO at a very critical time for the business and has had a significant positive impact helping steer the business through the challenges of the past few years. Her expertise, professionalism and commitment have been instrumental in positioning our business well for the future.” IGO will take steps to secure a new successor before Bozanic retires in December. IGO chief people and sustainability officer Sam Retallack is also stepping down, effective from the June quarter. Vella said Retallack, who is set to pursue challenges outside of IGO after 13 years, has been vital in maintaining staff and upholding company values.

“Sam was pivotal in working across the business to develop our purpose and values,” Vella said. “This pivotal piece of work remains critical in attracting and retaining our people and guiding our strategy and growth.” IGO isn’t the only miner experiencing a CFO change with NRW Holdings appointing Peter Bryant to the role in March in a move set to take effect on May 5. With strong experience in accounting, Bryant has a strong focus on people and safety and is known for driving innovation within largescale businesses. Bryant most recently served as CFO for Perth Airport Corporation, and prior to that was the long-term CFO of Perenti, a role in which he gained extensive experience across the mining sector. With a career spanning roles in Australia, the UK and the US, Bryant has worked across mining, renewables and media industries in private and public companies. “I am delighted to welcome Peter to NRW,” NRW Holdings managing director Jules Pemberton said. “Peter brings a wealth of experience across the global mining services markets through his service at Perenti and prior to that at Barminco and GRD Minproc.” Bryant is a Fellow of Chartered Accountants Australia and New

Zealand and a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD). Outside of his professional career, he is a long-serving volunteer with the Cottesloe Surf Club and has contributed to charitable organisations such as the Starlight Children’s Foundation and the Telethon Trust. His appointment comes as NRW Holdings continues to expand its presence in the mining and civil contracting industries, with the help of Bryant’s extensive experience in financial leadership and operational strategy. NRW was awarded a major contract by Evolution Mining for its Castle Hill gold deposit in Western Australia in October 2024. The project is located in the heart of the WA goldfields, 50km northwest of Kalgoorlie and 40km north of Coolgardie, ideally situated to allow NRW to engage with local businesses and further develop the local community partnerships established by the Mungari operations. March also saw Gold Road Resources welcome Brian Massey as the new general manager of investor relations and corporate development. Massey steps in after serving as head of investor relations at Santos. Prior to that, he worked across large and smallcap ASX- and TSX-listed resources companies such as Rio Tinto, BHP and Turquoise Hill Resources.

AUSTRALIANMINING 6 MAY 2025

Gold Road managing director and chief executive officer Duncan Gibbs is excited to see what Massey will bring to the company. “Brian’s extensive experience in the resources sector and deep relationships in capital markets both in Australia and overseas will prove highly beneficial for Gold Road,” he said. “With our 50 per cent ownership of the world-class Gruyere gold mine and a strategic 17.3 per cent shareholding in De Grey Mining, Gold Road is set for an exciting future at a time of heightened global interest in quality investment opportunities in the Australian gold sector. “Debt free and unhedged, Gold Road has a clearly defined and articulated strategy to deliver value to all shareholders through disciplined investment in growth while maintaining our enviable track record as a consistent payer of dividends.” In other Gold Road news, the miner recently rejected an unsolicited takeover offer from Gold Fields, its 50:50 joint venture partner at the Gruyere gold mine. The proposal would have seen Gold Fields secure 100 per cent of Gold Road shares for $3.05 per share, valuing Gold Road value at $3.3 billion. While Gruyere saw lowerthan-expected production for the March 2025 quarter, the mine is still projected to produce 325,000–355,000 ounces in 2025. AM

the volvo advantage YOUR mINING DREAM TEAM Innovative designs focusing on power, efficiency, and operator comfort. Eco-friendly operations with smart connectivity for optimal fleet management.

33.6m³ • 55,000kg • 492kW

Big Enough to Trust, Small Enough to Care @CJDequipment

5.2m³ 5 .2 2m³ ³•9 91,402kg 1,4 402kg • 446kW 446kW

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL BRANCH FOR MORE INFORMATION CJD.COM.AU | 1300 139 804

6.9m³ • 50,930kg • 394kW

CJD Equipment has a national supply network and 24/7 service

IRON ORE

A NEW ERA IN IRON ORE BHP IS REDEFINING IRON ORE MINING AT ITS SOUTH FLANK OPERATION IN THE PILBARA.

BHP CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER MIKE HENRY.

HP’s South Flank operation stands as one of the most significant developments in the company’s long and storied history of iron ore mining in Western Australia. Located 156km north-west of Newman, South Flank is a crucial component of BHP’s Western Australian Iron Ore (WAIO) portfolio.

The company began planning the operation in 2016 to replace its ageing Yandi iron ore mine and officially opened the $4.6 billion project in October 2021. South Flank is Australia’s largest new iron ore mine in more than 50 years and, together with Mining Area C, will form the largest operating iron ore hub in the world, producing 145 million tonnes of iron ore each year. During a recent shareholder session, BHP chief executive officer Mike Henry shared insights into the operation’s successes, challenges and future ambitions. “The ramp up at South Flank is going well,” Henry said. “This was a very big new iron ore mine development as part of our Western Australian iron ore complex. “Since the decision to invest in it back in 2017, we have ramped the mine up to full production. “Our average quality of product suite through the development of South Flank has given use to a greater lump fraction … and allowed us to increase our average

iron ore content, allowing us to secure higher prices.” South Flank represents a leap forward in mining technology, featuring state-ofthe-art automation and data analytics to optimise production. Unlike traditional mines, South Flank integrates cutting-edge equipment, including autonomous haul trucks and drills, reducing manual labour requirements and increasing safety. Henry said BHP has seen great results from its Operating System. “We have seen more reliable operations at Olympic Dam, and at Escondida, we’ve improved concentrator performance and cathode performance. “We’re seeing the fruits of our investment in the BHP Operating System right across our company, and this is going to create sustainable shareholder value in the years to come.” In June 2023, BHP introduced its fifth autonomous operational zone (AOZ) at South Flank, a specific area within the mine where a fleet of equipment can operate autonomously, controlled from a central facility.

UNLIKE TRADITIONAL MINES, SOUTH FLANK INTEGRATES CUTTING-EDGE EQUIPMENT, INCLUDING AUTONOMOUS HAUL TRUCKS AND DRILLS.

AUSTRALIANMINING 8 MAY 2025

The milestone marked the completion of the original project scope for autonomous haulage (AH) implementation at South Flank. Through BHP’s coordinated efforts, South Flank is now fully autonomous for its primary haul fleet, with 41 Komatsu 930e haul trucks converted and around 185 pieces of ancillary equipment able to operate safely around them in the site’s five AOZs. “The carefully phased approach we took to bringing AH online has ensured a safe transition through the complications of a mixed operation,” former BHP general manager of South Flank Steve Campbell said in 2023. “We can now start to bed in the productivity, cost and maintenance improvements that AH delivers through the increased truck hours and more consistent cycle times. “I am confident that more improvements will be realised as we optimise AH across South Flank.” BHP has been ramping up production at South Flank in 2025, reporting a nine per cent increase in productive

IRON ORE

BHP HAS RAMPED UP PRODUCTION AT IT SOUTH FLANK OPERATION.

IMAGES: BHP

movement across the asset for the first half of the 2024–25 financial year. This increase resulted in boosted production and a continued strong supply chain with record volumes across BHP’s Central Pilbara Hub (South Flank and Mining Area C). South Flank’s production comes at a crucial time for the global iron ore market. With demand from key markets such as China continuing to drive prices, BHP’s ability to deliver high-quality ore is paramount. China is the world’s largest importer of iron ore, with the country increasing its raw materials by five per cent year on year in 2024 for a total of 1.2 billion tonnes. Global iron ore exports in 2024 increased by two per cent from 2023. Australia remains the main supplier and accounts for more than half of all global supplies. Major mining companies, including BHP, Rio Tinto and Fortescue, are increasing their iron ore production to cater for China’s demand. With the World Steel Association expecting global steel demand to grow by 1.2 per cent year on year in 2025 to reach 1.77 billion metric tonnes, now is the perfect time for iron ore miners to boost production. South Flank has a key role to play as part of this.

“The project has created more than 9000 direct and indirect jobs during construction, and will provide more than 600 operational roles through its life,” BHP president minerals Australia Edgar Basto said at the time of first production in 2021. “South Flank’s ore will supply global steel markets for the next 25 years,

SOUTH FLANK IS AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST NEW IRON ORE MINE IN MORE THAN 50 YEARS.

helping to build electricity, transport and urban infrastructure across the globe. “Its high-quality ore will play an important role in helping BHP’s customers lower their greenhouse gas emissions.” Former Western Australian Premier Mark McGowan said the South Flank project is an example of governments working with the industry to create jobs. “I congratulate BHP on the first production of ore and look forward to this project continuing to provide jobs for Western Australians and delivering considerable economic benefit for our state,” he said. South Flank’s strategic advantage is further strengthened by the mine’s integration with existing infrastructure and utilities, including power, water and airport facilities. AUSTRALIANMINING 9 MAY 2025

The utilisation of an existing rail network minimises current and future capital expenditure. BHP’s South Flank operation is more than just a mine – it’s a testament to the company’s ability to innovate, adapt and lead in an evolving industry. From its technological advancements to its commitment to sustainability and workforce development, South Flank embodies the future of mining. As BHP continues to optimise South Flank’s output and integrate further efficiencies, its impact on both the company and the broader iron ore market will only grow. With strong foundations, cuttingedge technology and a clear vision, BHP’s South Flank is well-positioned to remain a cornerstone of the company’s success well into the future. AM

IMAGES: AUSTRALIAN ALUMINIUM COUNCIL

ALUMINIUM

BAUXITE IS THE PRIMARY ORE FROM WHICH ALUMINIUM METAL IS EXTRACTED.

FROM MINE TO MARKET AUSTRALIAN MINING BREAKS DOWN THE IMPORTANCE OF BAUXITE, ALUMINA AND ALUMINIUM FOR THE COUNTRY’S FUTURE.

he mining industry is wellknown for contributing billions of dollars in revenue to Australia’s economy every year. A key commodity driving this income is aluminium, the second most used metal in the world following iron ore and steel. Australia is one of the few countries that has an entire aluminium value chain in action. The process begins with companies mining bauxite from the 3.5 billion tonnes Australia holds under its oil. The bauxite ore is then processed at an alumina refinery to produce alumina. That alumina undergoes an electrolytic process to extract aluminium metal at an aluminium smelter. The extracted aluminium is then transformed into a range of products by the process of extruding, rolling or casting. Aluminium is vital across several industries, from construction and

transportation to renewable energy technologies like solar panels and batteries. It’s also essential for defence applications such as armoured vehicles, military aircraft and naval vessels. Because of its infinite recyclability, aluminium contributes to a sustainable circular economy where 75 per cent of aluminium metal ever produced is still in use today. Despite its benefits and uses, aluminium’s significance in everyday life is still somewhat unknown by the general public. But the Australian Aluminium Council is looking to change this. Founded in 1968, the Australian Aluminium Council is the peak industry association representing the country’s aluminium industry. With nearly 25 years’ experience in the aluminium industry, Marghanita Johnson joined the Australian Aluminium Council as chief executive officer in 2019.

“Reflecting on the past few years, what occurred to me was, even though we in the industry understood bauxite, alumina and aluminium, other people didn’t understand they are each a commodity in their own right,” Johnson told Australian Mining. “One of the things I’ve worked on over the last five years is communicating to help improve and build understanding of those different commodities, what their roles are, their interdependencies, and their role in energy systems today, and what that could be in the future.” In 1955, the first aluminium smelter in Australia opened in Bell Bay, Tasmania. Since then, the aluminium industry has been a significant contributor to the national economy. According to the Australian Aluminium Council’s ‘Economic Contribution of the Australian Aluminium Industry’ report, the industry contributed an estimated $18 billion in value added in 2023, with the

AUSTRALIANMINING 10 MAY 2025

annual export revenue sitting at more than $15 billion. The report also found that the aluminium industry directly employs more than 20,000 people and indirectly employs more than 55,000 full-time equivalent jobs across regional Australia. “Most people think of the mining industry as being a well-paid industry, and they’re not so familiar with manufacturing, but we think of ourselves as bridging that mining and manufacturing gap,” Johnson said. “These are good jobs, and they’re often intergenerational. We have grandparents, parents and kids all working at the same plant or region. The scale of the workforce we have today is useful. We’re building skills in that workforce, which will be available to not only our industry, but also other industries in the future.” Johnson said the aluminium industry is a long-term one, meaning long-term policies are required to support it.

ALUMINIUM

“Our key focus is creating access to reliable low-carbon energy at competitive prices,” she said. “It’s a really critical time in our industry for that. “Many of our facilities are on a decarbonisation journey, and we need to have the right policy settings to attract investment for those decarbonisation technologies. “We also need predictable and streamlined regulatory approvals to be able to underpin the implementation right across the value chain. That’s for bauxite mines but also the infrastructure we need for decarbonisation, transmission lines and so forth.” Because Australia produces aluminium from mine to market, there is incentive to expand it so the country retains the domestic capability. “Aluminium is one of very few commodities where we not only mine it, but we turn it into a finished good right here in Australia,” Johnson said. “You can buy something off the shelf that’s been mined, refined, smelted, extruded, manufactured and distributed, all in Australia. That’s a pretty rare thing.” But having an entire aluminium supply chain in Australia isn’t without its challenges. “Unfortunately, in the last decade, we’ve seen the closure of one alumina refinery, the curtailment of another and the impairment of three others,” Johnson said. “We have certainly seen that we are an industry that is vulnerable, but bauxite, alumina, high-purity alumina and aluminium are all commodities that other countries really want and value for defence, renewable energy and manufacturing. “Even though we’ve got large supplies of aluminium, we still have supply chain vulnerabilities.”

AUSTRALIA ACCOUNTS FOR ABOUT 2.5 PER CENT OF TOTAL US ALUMINIUM IMPORTS.

A recent illustration of this is the 25 per cent tariffs the US Government has imposed on all aluminium and steel imports entering its country, including those from Australia. While the Federal Government hadn’t been able to secure an exemption to the tariffs at the time of writing, it has acted swiftly to alleviate impacts on industry. The Federal Government’s plan to counter the tariffs includes: • strengthening Australia’s antidumping regime • supporting affected sectors to expand trade relationships with new markets • establishing an economic resilience program through the National Reconstruction Fund

• encouraging people to buy Australian products • establishing a Critical Minerals Strategic Reserve. “First, we will strengthen our antidumping regime to safeguard key sectors like steel, aluminium and manufacturing against unfair competition,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said in April. “Second, we will provide $50 million to affected sectors, particularly through peak bodies to secure and grow new markets for their worldclass products. “Third, we will establish a new Economic Resilience Program through our National Reconstruction Fund. This will provide $1 billion in zero-interest

AUSTRALIA CURRENTLY HAS FOUR OPERATING ALUMINIUM SMELTERS.

AUSTRALIANMINING 11 MAY 2025

loans for firms to capitalise on new export opportunities.” Buying Australian means the nation’s businesses will be prioritised for government procurement and contracts, maximising value for local businesses and taxpayers. And finally, the Critical Minerals Strategic Reserve would aim to strengthen Australia’s position as a reliable critical minerals supplier to the world. While the tariffs pose short-term challenges, it’s not all doom and gloom, with various ways Australia can navigate the change. University of New South Wales (UNSW) senior lecturer in the school of economics Scott French said policymakers should avoid the temptation to protect Australian manufacturers from foreign competition. “I can already feel the push for protective tariffs to keep out foreign products competing with domestic production,” French said. “I’m very wary of something like that because I find that Australia has done well by having very low trade barriers. “We don’t want to go back to the experience from earlier decades where local manufacturing was very highly protected and uncompetitive.” Rather than enacting long-term protectionist policies, French said temporary and targeted support measures like Australia’s JobKeeper program should be implemented. “You want to cushion the transition, but any measures need to be temporary and targeted, so I would think maybe something akin to the JobKeeper scheme we saw in COVID-19,” he said. “We want to keep things like the Tomago plant (in New South Wales)

ALUMINIUM

THE ANTI-DUMPING COMMISSION PROTECTS AUSTRALIAN MANUFACTURERS FROM UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICES.

in operation because if it gets shut down, there’s a big fixed cost to bring it back up.” UNSW business school professor Maggie Dong highlighted several short-term strategies that businesses can implement to cushion the impacts of tariffs, including flexible contracting, nearshoring, diversification and financial hedging. By adopting flexible contracting, companies can renegotiate pricing and terms as external conditions change. It also allows companies to explore alternative markets or reconfigure business models to be less reliant on the US market. “A flexible contract usually includes a clause allowing for quick renegotiation in the event of some unpredicted situations, like tariffs or supply shocks,” Dong said. “So, I would say, especially for this US tariff, I think the short-term adjustments that focus on flexible contracting would be the first step.” Another strategy is shifting production closer to home to reduce reliance on US-dependent supply chains. “Australia’s strategic location at the crossroads of the Indo-Pacific region puts it in a unique position to strengthen trade alliances and mitigate the impact of US tariff policies,” Dong said. “By deepening engagements with growing Asian economies, Australia can diversify export markets and leverage its regional influence for better trade deals.”

For these reasons and many more, the Australian Aluminium Council is advocating for bauxite, alumina and aluminium to join Australia’s critical minerals list, following high-purity alumina joining the fray in 2022. The critical minerals list, which currently lists 31 commodities, outlines minerals that are essential to lowemission technology, the economy and national security and whose supply chains are vulnerable to disruption. “We’d send that signal not only to Australia, but to our trading partners,” Johnson said.

“That’s particularly important now, as we see things unfold globally in terms of trading. It would also send a signal to investors who want to invest in Australia.” Citing its importance in defence applications and renewable energy technology, the International Aluminium Institute forecasted that aluminium demand is set to grow by 81 per cent by 2050. “Australia is one of the world’s largest producers of bauxite, and we have a historic advantage in bauxite,” Johnson said.

AUSTRALIA WAS RANKED AS THE WORLD’S LARGEST PRODUCER OF BAUXITE IN 2023.

AUSTRALIANMINING 12 MAY 2025

“We’re undergoing an energy transition that is calling for new processes. While it is a challenging period, we’re not alone in the world. If we can maintain Australian industry, we will be poised to continue providing Australian aluminium – whether it’s in the form of bauxite, alumina or aluminium – to meet that global demand. “The future should be bright for Australian aluminium and its entire value chain. There might be a few speed bumps along the way, but the future should be bright.” AM

First R 9800 Repower! World first achievement

Liebherr-Australia

The R 9800 repower with Yancoal!

Scan here to watch now!

Liebherr-Australia has made history with the world’s first-ever repower of two R 9800 excavators for Yancoal at Mount Thorley Warkworth in the Hunter Valley, NSW. In this timelapse video, watch as our team removes the existing engines and replaces them with Liebherr D9812 engines, purpose-built for the demanding conditions of mining operations.

EFFICIENCY AND OPTIMISATION

EVERY SECOND COUNTS XCMG IS REVOLUTIONISING MINING WITH OPEN AUTONOMY, AI-POWERED EFFICIENCY, AND SEAMLESS INTEGRATION.

he mining industry is undergoing a seismic shift as automation, data intelligence, and system interoperability become the new standard for efficiency and sustainability. XCMG, a global leader in mining technology, is at the forefront of this transformation, leveraging open autonomy, solutions driven by artificial intelligence (AI), and seamless system integration to redefine how mines operate.

The future of mining

Beyond automation, XCMG’s tech stack is driving the next phase of mining efficiency by combining AI-powered fleet optimisation, hybrid-electric and autonomous vehicle technologies, and predictive maintenance analytics to achieve reduced idle time and fuel consumption, lower emissions and downtime, and improved equipment longevity. With seamless fleet management system (FMS) compatibility and customer-driven autonomy, XCMG ensures that mining companies can adopt smarter solutions without the headaches of system overhauls. This enables operators to achieved reduced cycle times with real-time, automated route adjustments, lower

fuel consumption through AIdriven efficiency monitoring, and minimised unplanned downtime with predictive diagnostics. In an industry where every second counts, XCMG’s intelligent machinery is delivering real, measurable improvements in operational efficiency, helping mines move more material at a lower cost, with a smaller environmental footprint.

Choice matters in autonomy

Mining companies don’t want to be locked into a single solution. Some operators have built their entire workflow around specific FMS providers, while others prioritise OEM (original equipment manufacturer) autonomy stacks. XCMG recognises the need for flexibility and actively supports open integration, ensuring that its intelligent machinery can seamlessly connect with different systems. As one industry veteran put it: “There’s an old saying: there are two things you don’t want to go through in life: a divorce and changing your FMS. Both are equally challenging.” XCMG is committed to making sure miners don’t have to endure the latter. By aligning with ISO standard 23725, which standardises FMS interoperability across autonomous

mining operations, XCMG is ensuring customers can continue using their preferred FMS while integrating with the OEM’s autonomy solutions.

An open approach

Morgan David, a key member of XCMG’s autonomy team in Australia, works directly with these open systems daily. David emphasised how XCMG’s commitment to open autonomy is changing the game. “It’s not just about having an autonomous truck; it’s about building an entire ecosystem where trucks, graders, and FMS providers all work together,” David said. “Customers should never feel like they must rip and replace their entire operation just to integrate autonomy. We give them the choice to stick with what works.” This open architecture allows mining operations to: • Integrate XCMG’s autonomous systems into their existing FMS without major disruptions • Maintain fleet flexibility by choosing the right equipment mix for their operation • Improve operational efficiency by leveraging real-time, cross-system decision-making. Understanding the nuances of the Australian mining sector is not just

about deploying technology, it’s about listening, learning, and adapting to the specific challenges faced by operators on the ground. XCMG recognises that Australia is home to some of the world’s most demanding mining operations, and succeeding in this country means earning the trust of the industry through execution, not just promises.

XCMG’s three pillars

Deep local engagement XCMG doesn’t just bring global solutions to Australia; it co-develops them with Australian operators. By embedding teams within mine sites, XCMG works side by side with customers to understand the realworld constraints, terrain challenges, and operational needs unique to Australian mining. This boots-on-the-ground approach allows XCMG to refine its autonomy stack based on direct operator feedback, align with local regulatory and safety standards – including ISO 23725 and autonomous vehicle compliance frameworks – and ensure seamless integration with existing Australian mining fleets. Rapid execution and adaptability Mining companies need proven solutions, not long development cycles.

XCMG TAILORS ITS AUTOMATION OFFERINGS TO THE NEEDS OF THE AUSTRALIAN MINING INDUSTRY. AUSTRALIANMINING 14 MAY 2025

EFFICIENCY AND OPTIMISATION

XCMG IMPLEMENTS SOLUTIONS BY FOLLOWING ITS THREE KEY PILLARS.

XCMG ENSURES ITS INTELLIGENT MACHINERY CAN SEAMLESSLY CONNECT WITH DIFFERENT SYSTEMS.

XCMG’s ability to rapidly adapt, test, and deploy in the Australian market sets the company apart. Its team is focused on fast-tracking field trials to demonstrate real performance gains and iterating solutions based on operator input, not just engineering theories. XCMG works to execute with speed and precision, ensuring that autonomy delivers measurable return on investment from day one. Autonomy is only as valuable as the efficiency it unlocks. That’s why XCMG focuses on continuous deployment and on-site validation, making sure that every piece of technology it introduces is finetuned for Australian conditions and operations.

Long-term investment Autonomous technology isn’t just about hardware and software; it’s about building the right ecosystem. That’s why XCMG is investing heavily in local talent, infrastructure, and partnerships to ensure it provides a robust, in-country support network for its customers.

A high availability network

To strengthen its local engineering and testing capabilities, XCMG has established a dedicated high availability network in Perth in partnership with industry-trusted network specialist, FTP Solutions. FTP’s integrated management system (IMS) will integrate with and monitor XCMG’s autonomy solution.

This infrastructure and monitoring capability ensures that XCMG can validate, refine, and deploy its autonomous solutions within an Australian-specific network environment, reducing latency, improving reliability, and ensuring seamless FMS integration. By growing its in-country autonomy team, XCMG is ensuring local expertise is always on hand. The company is developing training programs to upskill Australian operators and technicians in autonomy, while building partnerships with industry leaders, aligning with FMS providers, and collaborating with Australian mining groups to push innovation forward, delivering results, not just innovation.

Mining companies don’t want technology for the sake of technology – they want solutions that work in their specific environment, with their existing systems, and their workforce.

XCMG’s commitment to Australia

XCMG listens to the market and adapts real operational needs into engineering requirements. The company executes with speed and reliability while investing in long-term partnerships. For mining companies looking to future-proof their operations, XCMG isn’t just another autonomy provider. The company is a committed partner that delivers autonomy built for Australian mining, by a team that understands it firsthand. AM

IMAGES: XCMG

XCMG BELIEVES IN BUILDING AN ECOSYSTEM WHERE TRUCKS, GRADERS, AND FLEET MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS WORK TOGETHER.

AUSTRALIANMINING 15 MAY 2025

EFFICIENCY AND OPTIMISATION

STURDY PUMPS, STURDY MINES IN UNDERGROUND MINING, HIGH-QUALITY, DURABLE PUMPS ARE CRUCIAL TO MINIMISE DOWNTIME AND MAINTENANCE COSTS.

nderground mining is evolving rapidly, with efficiency, sustainability and safety driving the industry’s transformation. In today’s modern mining environment, companies are adopting technologies to optimise operations, reduce downtime and lower costs. With dewatering systems playing a pivotal role in keeping underground mines operational, Truflo Pumping Systems stands at the forefront of delivering reliable solutions to support these advancements.

Truflo Pumps supplies a comprehensive range of systems specifically designed for underground mining. This includes IECEx explosionproof submersible pumps; jumbo face dewatering pumps; fishtanks; heliflo helical rotor pumps; pump pods and high head pumps – all built to withstand the harshest conditions. Beyond water management, equipment reliability is crucial for maintaining efficiency underground. With mining operations running 24–7, any unexpected breakdown can lead to costly downtime. Truflo Pumps’ overhauls and rebuilds manager Jason Lidgard emphasised the importance of high-quality maintenance and equipment reliability. “You can have the best mining plan in the world, but if your equipment isn’t reliable, you’re going to run into major problems,” he told Australian Mining. “That’s where preventative maintenance and quality overhauls come into play.” To maintain high quality pumping, overhauls involve disassembling, cleaning, repairing and thoroughly

testing the pumps. Proper maintenance and strategic overhauls ensure that pumps and other critical components perform optimally for longer periods. Truflo Pumps’ overhaul and rebuild services help mining companies reduce the risk of unexpected failures and extend the lifespan of their equipment. “A pump failure underground can stop operations in their tracks,” Lidgard said. “That’s why we focus on quality overhauls – so miners have equipment they can rely on when it matters most.” With safety paramount in successful mining operations, technological advancements play a significant role in reducing risks underground. By incorporating smart technology and reliable systems, mines can ensure safer working conditions while improving operational efficiencies. “You can’t cut corners on safety; if you don’t have reliable pumps, water buildup becomes a safety hazard,” McCulloch said. “That’s why we work closely with miners to ensure they have the right solutions in place.”

IMAGES: TRUFLO PUMPING SYSTEMS

TRUFLO PUMPS’ INTERNATIONAL BDM PAUL POWER.

Truflo Pumping Systems senior dewatering consultant Chris McCulloch told Australian Mining that having the right pump solutions can make all the difference. “Underground mining is all about efficiency,” McCulloch said. “Every second counts, if you’re not moving water effectively, you’re not mining effectively. “We’ve seen firsthand how a well-designed pumping system can transform an underground mining operation. Our goal is to help miners move water efficiently so they can focus on production.” Water ingress presents a constant challenge in underground operations. Without efficient water management, mining operations risk halted production, unsafe working conditions, and increased operational costs. By investing in rugged, efficient and purpose-designed pumps, mine sites can avoid the headaches and future accumulative costs of systems that don’t meet the demands of underground mining.

L–R: TRUFLO PUMPS’ BDM MITCH CREIGHTON AND OVERHAULS AND REBUILDS MANAGER JASON LIDGARD INSPECT A HELICAL ROTOR PUMP.

AUSTRALIANMINING 16 MAY 2025

EFFICIENCY AND OPTIMISATION

A key advantage of Truflo Pumps is its fully in-house operation, with all design, manufacturing and overhauls conducted in Australia. This local approach allows the company to maintain high-quality standards, streamline production and respond quickly to the needs of underground mining operations. “Everything we do is in-house and based here in Australia, which means we can control quality, turn things around quickly, and ensure our customers get exactly what they need. “When a mining company comes to us with a challenge, we can adapt and make changes in a capable manner.” This responsiveness is particularly valuable in underground mining, where unexpected issues can lead to costly downtime. By keeping its operations local, Truflo Pumps can work closely with customers, gather direct feedback, and refine products to meet the evolving demands of the industry. “Our customers know that if they need something adjusted, we can make it happen quickly,” McCulloch said. “Having everything under one roof gives us the flexibility to innovate and continuously improve our solutions based on real-world mining conditions.” However, Truflo Pumps isn’t just a manufacturer – the company is also a solutions provider dedicated to helping mining companies overcome

AN UNDERGROUND DEWATERING SOLUTION PROVIDED BY TRUFLO PUMPING SYSTEMS.

operational challenges. Rather than offering one-size-fits-all products, Truflo Pumps works closely with mines to develop tailored pumping solutions that enhance efficiency and reliability in underground operations.. “We don’t just sell pumps; we solve problems,” McCulloch said. “Every mine site is different, with its own set

of challenges. Our job is to understand those challenges and provide solutions that keep operations running smoothly.” By taking a hands-on approach, Truflo Pumps ensures its systems are designed to handle the specific conditions of each mine, whether it’s high-pressure dewatering, extreme depths or harsh underground environments.

Mining companies can rely on Truflo Pumps for long-term solutions rather than temporary fixes. “Our focus is on delivering highperformance solutions that make a real impact,” Lidgard said. “We work with mines to find the right setup for their needs, ensuring they get the best possible results from their equipment.” AM

& Engineered for excellence. Trusted by industry. Project management

Product knowledge

Product supply

Installation

Maintenance

• Complex projects

• Extensive expertise with all igus products

• Comprehensive range of igus products

• Experienced personnel

• Treotham provides support to all projects.

• Specialised knowledge on mining applications

• Readily available • Products specifically for mining including cables and connectors

tio

SCAN FOR

On t a

• Local supply in all states

• Executing, monitoring and completing projects efficiently and effectively.

Solu

• Coordinate resources

• Tailored solutions ensuring optimal performance

e im

• Monitoring

• Dedicated team of support personnel on call. ns

On t

• Manage timelines

• Systematic approach to planning

t rge

• Systematic planning

WEB PAGE

EFFICIENCY AND OPTIMISATION

THE REMOTELY OPERATED GEROTTO LOMBRICO S.

MAJOR OPERATIONAL ISSUES ON SITE CAN PUT MINERS IN TESTING SITUATIONS. THIS IS WHERE KOR’S VERSATILE GEROTTO LOMBRICO COMES TO THE FORE.

n Norseman, Western Australia, a mining company was facing a significant challenge: its process water pond, crucial for managing and containing waste from mineral processing, was blocked. The miner quickly commissioned the services of GPC Environmental Services, who needed an advanced solution to clean the pond and made contact with KOR Equipment Solutions. After consultation, KOR’s Gerotto Lombrico remote-operated vehicle (ROV) was deployed. The solution proved to be a gamechanger, showcasing the power of robotic technology in handling complex industrial challenges.

A robust solution

The pond’s problem turned out to be a thickener malfunction that had blocked a decant pipe, reducing the plant’s water capacity to just 15 per cent. With the mine depending on the pond’s operation, finding a fast, safe and efficient cleaning method was critical. However, the project presented multiple challenges, as traditional cleaning methods such as water cannons required large amounts of water, creating a sourcing issue. The site’s extreme conditions added to the complexity, with high temperatures reaching 50°C, posing serious risks for manual labour. The thick slurry needed to be removed efficiently while complying with disposal regulations, and the hypersaline water in the pond raised concerns about corrosion affecting equipment.

Given these constraints, the Gerotto Lombrico was selected due to its efficiency, safety and adaptability in challenging conditions. Its remote operation allowed GPC’s crew to control the robot via cameras and monitors from an air-conditioned truck, reducing heat exposure and operator fatigue. Unlike traditional vacuum hoses, the Gerotto Lombrico could be placed directly onto the slurry, breaking it down for removal without excessive water use. Constructed from stainless steel, the robot withstood the hypersaline conditions of the pond, eliminating concerns about corrosion. Throughout the project, KOR and the Italian team behind the Gerotto Lombrico provided ongoing technical support, ensuring smooth and efficient operation. Once GPC’s vacuum trucks cleared a safe working area, the Gerotto Lombrico was deployed directly onto the slurry, significantly reducing water requirements. Traditional methods like water cannons would have prolonged the project timeline by increasing material volume. Instead, the Gerotto Lombrico efficiently removed the blockage without excess water usage, streamlining the process and allowing the project to move forward quickly. Despite an unplanned disposal site relocation that added a two-day delay, the project was completed in just 14 days, well ahead of the client’s initial one-month estimate.

The Gerotto Lombrico removed 5.2 million litres of material, fully restoring the plant to 100 per cent capacity. There were no breakdowns, safety incidents or delays due to equipment failure, further reinforcing the effectiveness of this robotic cleaning solution. GPC operations manager Mick Darwen said the Gerotto Lombrico’s agility made it significantly more effective than traditional vacuum hoses. “The great advantage of using the Gerotto robot is that it can be placed exactly where the slurry is and therefore can soften up the product instead of having to use a vacuum hose in the one spot and having to hose it,” Darwen told Australian Mining. The Gerotto Lombrico also improved worker safety, with less manual handling

AUSTRALIANMINING 18 APRIL 2025

that could fatigue workers and contribute to potential fatal accidents. “It cuts down on fatigue, with our crew able to operate from an airconditioned truck running off a TV screen, and increases safety, as none of the crew had to enter the pond or handle the hoses as the robot does all the work,” Darwen said. KOR continues to push the boundaries of efficiency and safety, providing cutting-edge solutions for industrial cleaning challenges. For mining operations facing water scarcity, hazardous conditions or confined space access, robotic technology offers a scalable and proven alternative. For miners looking to solve an urgent, complex problem, the Gerotto Lombrico is a fast and effective option to get the job done. AM

THE GEROTTO IN ACTION AT A WATER PROCESS POND.

IMAGES: KOR

SQUEAKY CLEAN

rockprocessing.sandvik/smartcrushing

Smart crushing, adapted to you Upgraded 800i crushers with new ACS-c 5 Even the best can always get better. Upgraded 800i crushers with new ACS-c 5 are our smartest, safest and most productive yet – designed around the needs of the people who work with them to raise the bar of what a crusher can be. Combining simple yet robust mechanical design with powerful user-friendly automation, 800i crushers are true workhorses that improve your ability to process more material, more accurately and more sustainably. Discover the upgraded 800i crusher series with new ACS-c 5 today, and see what’s possible when a crusher is designed with you in mind.

EFFICIENCY AND OPTIMISATION

THE REPOWER INVOLVED REPLACING THE EXISTING ENGINES WITH LIEBHERR’S D9812 12-CYLINDER ENGINES.

REPOWERING MOUNT THORLEY LIEBHERR-AUSTRALIA MADE HISTORY AT YANCOAL’S MOUNT THORLEY WARKWORTH COAL OPERATIONS IN NOVEMBER 2024.

ust because an engine reaches the end of its life doesn’t mean the whole machine has to. At least that’s what the Yancoal maintenance team decided when it contracted LiebherrAustralia to repower two R 9800 excavators at its Mount Thorley Warkworth (MTW) coal operation in the New South Wales’ Hunter Valley. Repowering in the context of mining machinery means upgrading the existing engine with a newer, more efficient one – and that’s exactly what Liebherr-Australia did.

The repower involved replacing the existing engines with Liebherr’s D9812 12-cylinder engines, designed specifically for the mining industry. The project marked the first repower of Liebherr R 9800s in the world, highlighting Liebherr’s engineering expertise and customer-centred care. Liebherr began the process at its Mount Thorley facility, where the company prepared the D9812 engines for integration. Once complete, they were transported to MTW where the final phases of the repower were executed to ensure a smooth transition into operation. LIEBHERR’S REPOWER PROGRAM HAS ENABLED CUSTOMERS TO MODERNISE THEIR LARGE LIEBHERR EXCAVATORS AND TRUCKS.

A testament to teamwork

Mount Thorley service manager Ben Carlyle said the teamwork, attention to detail and care of the customer service team were crucial to the project. “To realise this significant achievement, the team had to face their share of challenges, including unfavourable weather, while maintaining a steadfast focus on safety and quality,” Carlyle said. “The success of this project speaks to the strength of our partnership with Yancoal and the dedication of everyone involved across multiple departments.” While repowering two R 9800s was no small feat, the finished product stands as a testament to the expertise and resilience of the team, marking an exciting moment for Mount Thorley. Yancoal MTW maintenance manager Warwick Gloster echoed Carlyle’s sentiments. “The teamwork, quality and professionalism from the MTW project managers, planners, supervisors and technicians working alongside the Mount Thorley Liebherr team was the basis for the success of this world-first field repower of the R 9800 with the D9812 modules,” Gloster said.

IMAGES: LIEBHERR

The benefits of D98 engines

The R 9800 excavators join a growing number of Yancoal machines powered by Liebherr’s D98 engines. An R 9400, delivered with a D9812 engine, has been running for nearly two years at the Moolarben coal operations in New South Wales. Once the last of these R 9600s have been delivered, Yancoal will have a total of nine machines powered by Liebherr’s D98 series engines operating across its Australian sites. “The D98 engines have performed extremely well since being installed,” Gloster said. AUSTRALIANMINING 20 MAY 2025

“The first unit, EX322, has achieved not only a four per cent fuel burn reduction in the first three months but set a global production record for a monthly output of 1.752 million bank cubic metres (BCM) in January. “This was on the back of some amazing maintenance statistics: 96.6 per cent availability and 147 hours mean time between failures with an 84.2 per cent utilisation average for the same month – all of which surpassed the previous global monthly record of 1.6 million BCM set by its sister machine, EX321, in August 2024.” Liebherr’s repower program has enabled customers all over the world to modernise their large Liebherr excavators and trucks with cutting-edge engines and experience the improved fuel efficiency, enhanced productivity and decreased maintenance and operational expenses for themselves. Furthermore, having a Liebherr engine in a Liebherr machine means customers only need a single point of contact for maintaining their machines, which simplifies the repair and maintenance process.

Looking ahead

In the coming years, there may be opportunities for further repower projects among Yancoal’s fleet of Liebherr excavators. Yancoal has been impressed with their performance and fuel efficiency and have expressed interest in further developments. “The D98 series engines has become recognised for its fuel efficiency and performance advantages across Australia,” Liebherr-Australia executive general manager of sales, marketing, training and solutions Brian Boitano said. “As we move our large mining machines to being 100 per cent Liebherr powered, our customers are asking us to speed up the transition.” AM

Condition Monitoring Inspection, Prediction, Improvement and Planning Bradken® offers expert Condition Monitoring services, providing comprehensive on-site inspection and reporting analysis for Fixed Plant assets. Our highly skilled Condition Monitoring team utilise advanced techniques to assess the condition of your assets and deliver wear monitoring reports that contain asset condition, performance analysis, comparison data, and recommendations. Our detailed report outlines liner wear conditions, highlighting any areas of concern, and includes a Bill of Materials, enabling efficient preparation for upcoming shutdowns. By leveraging regular Condition Monitoring, Bradken® helps you gain valuable insights into liner performance, enabling us to recommend solutions that enhance your asset’s campaign life and improve operational maintenance scheduling. Maximize your plant’s performance with Bradken® Condition Monitoring services.

bradken.com DELIVERING AN

OPTIMISED FUTURE

EFFICIENCY AND OPTIMISATION

BRADKEN HAS A WIDE RANGE OF TOOLS TO ANALYSE ASSETS ON SITE.

BRADKEN’S ANSWER TO PLANNING SHUTDOWNS WITH EQUIPMENT RELIABILITY PARAMOUNT TO ACHIEVING PROFITABILITY ON MINE SITES, BREAKDOWNS CAN PROVE COSTLY. ENTER BRADKEN. greater reliability, lower costs and safer operations.” In an industry where efficiency, cost control and safety are paramount, Bradken’s condition monitoring services are setting a new standard. Bradken prides itself as being the “one-stop shop” for everything condition monitoring and fixed plant. “Our approach is all about partnering with our customers and providing solutions as a one-stop shop,” Bradken product manager Cathy Hewett told Australian Mining. “We have an experienced team, a variety of techniques for condition monitoring, along with a comprehensive range of materials to support asset longevity. “Importantly, we have the technical expertise to interpret the condition monitoring results and provide tailored recommendations. When we identify a high-wear zone, we can apply different materials to enhance durability. “We also ensure we select the best material for each specific application, aligning with the customer’s end goal. “Condition monitoring is about increasing asset life and reducing

maintenance and downtime. Rather than reacting to failures, we want to help our customers detect issues early so they can take proactive action.” This approach provides mining operators with the ability to schedule maintenance when it’s actually needed, rather than sticking to rigid,

AUSTRALIANMINING 22 MAY 2025

time-based servicing that can lead to unnecessary part replacements or unexpected breakdowns. Equipment failures don’t just cost money, they disrupt entire operations and for mining companies, keeping fixed plant equipment running efficiently is a major challenge.

BRADKEN’S CONDITION MONITORING TEAM INSPECTING A FIXED PLANT ASSET.

IMAGES: BRADKEN

or miners, equipment reliability isn’t just a priority, it’s a necessity and unplanned downtime can lead to costly setbacks and disrupt mine planning. That’s where Bradken comes in. With its advanced condition-monitoring solutions for fixed plant equipment, the company is helping mining operations move from reactive maintenance to a smarter, predictive approach. Australian Mining sat down with three Bradken representatives to discuss how the company’s innovative technology is transforming maintenance strategies, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing safety across the industry. Traditional mining maintenance has long been reactive – waiting for equipment to fail before fixing it – but this method is no longer sustainable in the current mining landscape. “Our goal is to make maintenance as seamless and efficient as possible,” Bradken product development manager – fixed plant Javier Garcia told Australian Mining. “By leveraging data and predictive analytics, we’re helping mines achieve

EFFICIENCY AND OPTIMISATION

Bradken’s condition monitoring solutions provide a crucial advantage. “In mining, unplanned downtime is one of the biggest cost drivers,” Bradken sales manager Western Australia/Asia Brett Hainsworth told Australian Mining. “If you can predict a failure before it happens, you can schedule maintenance when it suits your operation, rather than dealing with a breakdown that halts production unexpectedly,” he said. With this predictive analysis, Bradken’s service helps mining companies extend the life of their equipment, reduce maintenance costs, and optimise operational efficiency. Instead of reacting to problems, mines can now anticipate them, which saves companies both money and time. Beyond cost savings, Bradken’s condition monitoring is also ensuring mining operations are safer for workers. Equipment failures can pose serious risks, especially when they occur unexpectedly. By identifying potential issues early, Bradken is helping mines reduce safety hazards. “When equipment fails unexpectedly, there’s always a risk, whether it’s injury to personnel or damage to surrounding infrastructure,” Hewett said. “By predicting and preventing these failures, we’re not just improving efficiency, we’re also making mine sites safer for the people working there.” Bradken’s condition monitoring technology detects anomalies like abnormal wear patterns or early signs of failure. These early warnings allow maintenance teams to intervene before a failure occurs, minimising the risk of dangerous incidents. “We don’t just collect data for the sake of it,” Hainsworth said. “The goal is to turn that data into actionable insights that help maintenance teams make informed decisions.” By leveraging regular on-site condition monitoring, Bradken helps miners gain valuable insights into liner performance, enabling them to recommend solutions that enhance an asset’s operating life and improve maintenance scheduling. Bradken’s condition monitoring technology is already making a difference for mining companies. By utilising 360° cameras, ultrasonic thickness testing or 3D laser scanning, Bradken provides a variety of methods to analyse the condition of assets and wear liners. In one case study, a mining operation struggling with its assets turned to Bradken for a solution. “When a miner launched their mine, we identified early failure points and, thanks to our WA manufacturing facility, we delivered solutions within a weekend for that critical shutdown,” Garcia said.

“New plants often use lower-cost materials, leading to unexpected failures, and by monitoring wear, we helped them plan ahead, ensuring they had the right parts – not just for the next shutdown but for future ones as well. “This proactive approach prevented last-minute fixes, reduced downtime, and kept operations running smoothly.” The result was a significant reduction in unplanned downtime and an increase in overall efficiency. Instead of dealing with unexpected breakdowns, the mine could plan its maintenance activities more effectively, reducing costs and extending equipment life.

Another success story involved a site experiencing excessive maintenance costs due to repeated apron feeder vault liner failures. After adopting Bradken’s condition monitoring service, and with the maintenance bill of materials required for the next shut clearly outlined, the site saw a dramatic reduction in emergency repairs and an improvement in equipment availability. As the mining industry evolves, the role of condition monitoring is becoming even more critical. An interesting innovation is how Bradken utilises the 360° camera, which can be lowered deep into processing

BRADKEN’S CONDITION MONITORING SOLUTIONS HELP MINERS AVOID UNPLANNED DOWNTIME.

AUSTRALIANMINING 23 MAY 2025

assets and capture images in hard-toaccess and dark conditions. “The cameras have really come a long way in recent years,” Garcia said. “Three or four years ago, you weren’t able to capture anything, so we have seen a drastic improvement on that resolution.” Another option for hard-to-access assets is Bradken’s SmartLiner technology and monitoring system, which can gather remote real-time monitoring and reporting through the Bradken Insite platform. All in all, Bradken’s condition monitoring services deliver a comprehensive method for wear monitoring for fixed plant assets. AM

EFFICIENCY AND OPTIMISATION

MARTIN ENGINEERING: BIGGER AND BETTER A GLOBAL LEADER IN BELT CONVEYOR ACCESSORIES AND BULK FLOW TECHNOLOGY IS EXPANDING ITS AUSTRALIAN OPERATIONS TO OFFER SOLUTIONS TO MORE CUSTOMERS.

artin Engineering first entered the Australian market in 1978 and has since grown to become a premier bulkhandling service and solutions provider in the country, improving production, safety, and efficiency for the mining, quarry, cement, and port sectors. By building a new manufacturing facility on the east coast in Yatala and opening a fully staffed office in Perth on the west coast, Martin is investing in and adding jobs to the Australian economy. Using a ‘factory direct’ sales, service, and equipment model, customers receive reliable product fulfillment, faster response times, and hands-on service from local experts. “Our purpose-built space has been designed to enhance our customer service, operational capabilities, and provide a better working environment for our team,” Martin Engineering Australia manager Bo Hu said. “This expansion ensures we continue delivering industry-leading solutions to our customers. We will now have full production capabilities in Australia of a wider range of products beyond our already established polyurethane parts production for cleaners and other wear parts.”

Yatala

IMAGES: MARTIN ENGINEERING

The newly built facility in Yatala will house Martin Engineering Australia’s headquarters in addition to 13 sales,

MARTIN ENGINEERING AUSTRALIA PROUDLY BRINGS ITS INNOVATION AND SAFETY MESSAGES ACROSS THE COUNTRY.

production, and service team employees, providing a central hub to offer the best solutions and technical service to the market. Although the Yatala facility will be the company’s primary Australian manufacturing site, Perth will also have partial production capabilities. Historically, Australian equipment production at Martin Engineering focused on polyurethane belt conveyor cleaner blades to ensure fresh products for a longer equipment life. The new Yatala facility expands this manufacturing capability to include a

MARTIN ENGINEERING AUSTRALIA IN YATALA.

wide variety of patented equipment, all designed and engineered by Martin Engineering at the company’s Centre for Innovation in Neponset, Illinois, US. “Our new manufacturing facility will produce bulk flow equipment and conveyor accessories,” Hu said. “These include air cannons, customised conveyor transfer points, impact cradles that protect the belt during loading, belt support cradles and idlers that ensure a smooth belt path, skirting to mitigate dust and spillage in the transition, and innovative belt alignment devices.”

MARTIN’S FLEET IS READY TO MOVE, SERVING A WIDE ARRAY OF INDUSTRIES IN OFTEN-DISTANT LOCATIONS.

AUSTRALIANMINING 24 MAY 2025

Yatala service and manufacturing personnel have all completed Martin Engineering’s Foundations training on conveyor maintenance and safety. In addition to online tutorial tools and hands-on training, Martin service technicians (MSTs) who visit customer sites are updated on the latest bulk handling technology and methods. This training ensures that any MST who visits a customer site utilises servicing best practices and consistently complies with WorkSafe Australia standards.

EFFICIENCY AND OPTIMISATION

Perth

Western Australia is quickly emerging as an economic powerhouse for raw materials and trade. Martin Engineering is supporting that growth through shorter lead times, a faster service response than competitors, and a greater understanding of local challenges. With a 14-person team, a targeted manufacturing capability, and a large warehouse, the Perth branch focuses on service, maintenance, and solutions to new and existing customers. MSTs specialise in bulk material flow on belt conveyors through belt cleaning,

dust- and spillage-free conveyor transfers, belt alignment, and mitigating hopper/chute clogging using efficient air cannon designs.

A cleaner, safer, and more productive Australia

Hu serves as the financial controller of Martin Engineering’s Australian business unit, overseeing operations with support from Martin Engineering Australia operations manager Oleksiy Yakovlenko. Martin chief executive officer Robert Nogaj and Yakovlenko will jointly

STAFF ARE TAKEN THROUGH THE COMPANY’S RIGOROUS SERVICE AND SAFETY STANDARDS.

manage the operations of the Western location’s commercial department, while Jorge Enriquez leads the engineering team. Sales for both branches are cooperatively managed by Yakovlenko and Marcelo Silvestre, who also oversees the east coast sales department and New Zealand. Additionally, Silvestre assumes responsibility for all marketing activities within Australia, further bolstering Martin’s local footprint.

MARTIN SERVICE TECHNICIANS RECEIVE HANDS-ON TRAINING.

AUSTRALIANMINING 25 MAY 2025

“After years of experience in the Australian market, Martin Engineering understands the everyday challenges for bulk handlers and mining operators in the varying climates and extreme environments the country has to offer,” Hu said. “With these new spaces, Martin Engineering Australia is excited to embark on the next chapter of delivering excellence and innovation. Stay tuned as we continue to grow and invest in Australia’s mining landscape.” AM

EFFICIENCY AND OPTIMISATION

AN EXPERT IN DRIVE TECHNOLOGY

or SEW-EURODRIVE, optimising drive systems is more than just a capability, it’s something the company lives and breathes.

Its commitment to refining drive technology in the industries it serves has seen SEW-EURODRIVE establish a footprint spanning 56 countries and 22,000 employees. One industry the company knows well is mining, where SEW-EURODRIVE motors and gear units have become commonplace in everything from conveyors to crushers and screeners to sizers to reclaimers to apron feeders and beyond. “A drive is not just a motor and a gearbox, it can also consist of brakes, fluid couplings, inverters, swing bases and torque arms, to name a few components,” SEW-EURODRIVE national industrial gears product manager Guido Wagner told Australian Mining. “We could be supplying a drive for a greenfield or brownfield installation, whether we’re working with an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) to develop a new solution or installing a drop-in solution for existing plant or machinery. “Either way, SEW-EURODRIVE is an expert in drive technology.” The breadth of SEWEURODRIVE’s product portfolio means it has a solution for most drive problems. And because most of the company’s products are stocked and assembled in Australia, solutions

ASSEMBLY OF A DRIVE UNIT AT SEW-EURODRIVE’S MELBOURNE FACILITY.

can be quickly prepared for local mining customers. “We are in a unique position to supply almost any type of drive in the shortest possible timeframe,” Wagner said. But this doesn’t mean SEWEURODRIVE rushes with its solutions, with the company implementing a collaborative approach to ensure the best outcome. “A customer will come to us specifying what they’d like to achieve in their process, whether they’d like to boost efficiency, or increase or change speeds,” Wagner said. “They come to us with a requirement, and we design the drive to suit.” The design process is enhanced by SEW-EURODRIVE’s engineering team, which is steeped in excellence. “We have a large pool of engineers from multiple disciplines who are intrinsically familiar with our product range,” Wagner said. “Not only can we replace ageing drives with modern and more efficient solutions but also improve performance in accordance with a mine’s requirements.” SEW-EURODRIVE’s motors exceed Australia’s IE2 efficiency regulations, with offerings ranging from IE3 efficiency up to IE5 efficiency, meaning their motors provide stark improvements in energy consumption and performance. In today’s mining industry, where efficiency is king, the company is constantly exploring novel approaches to optimise what is the “heart of the plant”. “Mining equipment is designed for, on average, a 25-year life. And when

IMAGES: SEW-EURODRIVE

A HOUSEHOLD NAME IS PROPELLING MINING OPERATIONS INTO SMARTER AND MORE EFFICIENT TERRITORY.

SEW-EURODRIVE HAS BEEN AT THE FOREFRONT OF PREDICTIVE MAINTENANCE THROUGH ITS DRIVERADAR SOLUTION.

equipment ages, the chance of failure increases,” Wagner said. “You can patch up your motor or gearbox, or you can go for a replacement. With a replacement, you get the latest technology, and all the materials are new, which means you reset your 25-year clock, and the equipment starts operating like new again. “A drive is the heart of the plant, and you wouldn’t hesitate to replace your pacemaker, old for new, would you? You wouldn’t risk it. “So looking after your drive is the smartest investment an operation can make, and SEW-EURODRIVE can help ensure your drive is healthy and optimised for your mine site, reducing maintenance and downtime in the process.” Wagner discussed an existing partnership that underlines SEWEURODRIVE’s drive capability. “We were approached to replace the travel drives for a bridge reclaimer at an Australian mine site,” he said. “The original drives required mechanical clutches to switch between operating and positioning speeds. The clutch was constantly malfunctioning due to the harsh environment, and the drives were not synchronised, meaning the reclaimer suffered from crabbing. “SEW-EURODRIVE replaced the complete drive with an industrial gearbox and inverter-driven servo motor without the need for the clutch. This solution provided even higher repositioning speeds from the original drive.

AUSTRALIANMINING 26 MAY 2025

“We designed and provided the solution, including the programming and on-site commissioning. This was eight years ago, and the bridge reclaimer drives have operated with zero downtime since then.” As SEW-EURODRIVE continues to push the envelope of what’s possible in drive technology, the company has been at the forefront of predictive maintenance through its DriveRadar solution. “The future lies in predictive analytics, where data is continuously collected and utilised for a live prognosis of equipment performance,” Wagner said. “Predictions consider all variables such as speed, temperature, operating frequency and loads, constantly adjusting when operating environments change. “SEW-EURODRIVE’s DriveRadar system constantly recalculates component life based on real-life operating conditions, giving reliability engineers accurate notifications of potential future events.” The efficiency opportunities in the mining industry are endless, particularly when it comes to optimising drive systems. As SEW-EURODRIVE continues to break new ground in drive technology, Australian miners can feel empowered to limit maintenance and avoid downtime at their operations. AM SEW–EURODRIVE is a platinum sponsor of the Australian Mining Prospect Awards, which will be held at Adelaide Oval on September 24. Submit nominations at prospectawards.com.au/nominations

HEAVY-DUTY POWER, REINVENTED FOR A GREENER FUTURE

Zero Emissions. Maximum Performance. Big Impact.

Discover the future of clean energy with XCMG’s Electric Line. Visit XCMG.net.au and power your projects with a greener tomorrow.

1800 565 988 XCMG AUSTRALIA

EFFICIENCY AND OPTIMISATION

A HOMEGROWN IT ADVANTAGE FOR AUSTRALIAN MINING, LOCAL IT EXPERTISE ISN’T JUST AN ADVANTAGE, IT’S A SMART PLAY.

It’s latency writ large. And it’s not gone unnoticed by Brennan. “Why bigger internationals dominate our market, and not local Aussie’s, is something we need to fix,” Brennan WA state manager Basil Lenzo told Australian Mining. With a headcount of 1100 – including over 350 technical, accredited, and certified engineers – Brennan is Australia’s largest independently-owned systems integrator. But Lenzo is quick to stress this is no self-serving sentiment. “We know that Australia’s mining sector has wanted to engage with Australian systems integrators but tend to leverage global players, often under the perception that homegrown talent isn’t sophisticated enough,” Lenzo said. “While that may have rung true in the

past, natively-owned operators have matured significantly, to the point we can hold our own against global players. “Australian miners have consistently proven themselves on the world stage and shown they can compete and win in every market. The same is true in our industry. It makes sense that our strengths are amplified by working together. “Like us, miners have local sites, local talent and local operations. With requirements spanning compliance, governance, health and safety, it makes sense to engage locally and align those processes more efficiently. “By partnering with an Australian systems integrator, there’s a seamless and true connection. Allowing for strategic planning and alignment simply shortens the time between issuing an order, and

IMAGE: PARILOV/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

atency. It’s synonymous with computing. Used to describe the gap between an issued instruction and the transfer of data, Australian mining companies are all too familiar with the impact of latency on operations. But could latency also be applied at a higher order? With sophisticated technology underpinning so many facets of modern mining, systems integrators are vital to ensuring IT solutions – be it software, hardware, or digital transformation – function cohesively to provide a unified environment. But with so many systems integrators headquartered overseas, gaining direct, timely and native access to solutions, support and services isn’t always fluid.

BRENNAN BOASTS ALMOST 30 YEARS OF IT EXPERIENCE.

having that instruction understood and implemented, not getting lost in translation.” It also means customers’ services can be better meshed and integrated with other suppliers, removing the need for customers to start afresh. “What this does is help mining companies create IP and reusable assets across their organisation from a technology perspective,” Lenzo said. With nearly three decades of deep IT experience, Brennan has helped several mining companies elevate operational efficiencies. Whether implementing solutions to streamline workflows and store data safely or leveraging AI and machine learning to optimise mining operations, predict equipment failures, improve maintenance schedules, forecast demand, and optimise resource allocation, Brennan’s expertise supports operational efficiency across the board. “These examples highlight the extent of Brennan’s capabilities and maturity,” Lenzo said. “But what really sets us apart is our True Performance System. Our highly disciplined, data-driven approach is not only engineered to get us closer to the real needs and issues of customers and their users, but it’s also designed to systematically and relentlessly seek out and work on improvements. “It’s no accident that this approach has helped us earn a customer net promoter score of over 80 and a retention rate of 95 per cent.” Further supporting customers is Brennan’s ‘fixed fee, fixed outcome’ promise, designed to eliminate common cost blowouts associated with digital transformation projects. “It forces us to be extremely descriptive about what we are going to deliver, and how we go about doing that,” Lenzo said. “Scoping jobs appropriately is key to making the model work for both parties – customer and provider alike.” Above all, Brennan’s goal is to support its customers through every step of their journey and bridge the divide between the technology landscape and the physical landscape. In a country – and an industry – where distance is so keenly felt, Brennan’s homegrown systems integration capabilities eliminate the latency that so often hampers productivity. Latency, it turns out, is local. AM

AUSTRALIANMINING 28 MAY 2025

FDCB_A

LONGEST LASTING CONVEYOR BELTS IN THE WORLD

Quality & Manufacturing Excellence

Productivity

Safety

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Sustainable Operations

Continued Innovation

Setting the global standard for durability, reliability, and manufacturing excellence in conveyor belts, trusted by industries worldwide to deliver the longest-lasting solutions. For conveyor belts that deliver the lowest cost per tonne of material conveyed, you need more than just durability— you need synergy between the cover compound and the carcass, tailored to your specific needs.

Bulk material handling and heavy mining operations that fit their conveyors with Fenner Dunlop Conveyor Belting benefit from maximum uptime, less belt maintenance, higher productivity, and lower total cost-of-ownership.

Using the highest quality materials and state-of-the-art manufacturing processes, we consistently produce the toughest and longest lasting conveyor belts in the industry.

Phone 1800 Fenner (336 637)

Delivered by Fenner Conveyors Australia

fenner.com.au | sales@fenner.com.au

FDCB_AM_AdSet2025.indd 3

19/03/2025 7:48:45 PM

EFFICIENCY AND OPTIMISATION

SMARTER MINES, FASTER DECISIONS AI-POWERED DATA ANALYTICS, SECURE INFRASTRUCTURE AND ROBUST CONNECTIVITY ARE TRANSFORMING THE AUSTRALIAN MINING SECTOR.

he mining sector has never been short on data. However, the ability to harness that data in real time, from deep underground to the most remote ports, is now setting apart the most innovative of mines. From improving safety, productivity, and mental wellbeing in mining camps, artificial intelligence (AI) and highspeed resilient and pervasive networks are becoming essential tools in the modern miner’s kit. But there can be no AI without connectivity. That’s where Vocus steps in. “There’s been an explosion in data at the edge,” Vocus head of digital solutions and innovation Greg Phillips told Australian Mining. “‘Data at the edge’ refers to data created from humans and machines ingested into edge computing processes completed at or near the physical location of the user or source of data. In the mining world, it

VOCUS HEAD OF DIGITAL SOLUTIONS AND INNOVATION GREG PHILLIPS.

can help companies focus on core business and save costs that would otherwise be invested in in-house technology. “Vocus is helping customers bring all of that together – connect it, secure it, make sense of it, and take advantage of the benefits AI can offer.” A key benefit of using data-driven AI is speed. “A mine produces a significant amount of data and the volume of data to be managed is increasing exponentially,” Phillips said. “AI allows us to quickly act on that data, supporting faster and more informed decisions that directly impact safety, productivity and cost.” At a time when mine sites are increasingly complex and often operated

THERE CAN BE NO AI WITHOUT CONNECTIVITY – THAT’S WHERE VOCUS STEPS IN.

by multiple third parties using a variety of systems, the ability to harmonise and process data in real time is critical. “Everything on a mine site starts with safety,” Phillips said. “We’re seeing AI used to improve communication during incidents, reduce manual workflows, and support autonomy in environments that are traditionally high-risk.” Vocus’ investment in space, land and subsea connectivity and infrastructure is also helping miners overcome the biggest historical challenges in the Australian mining sector: remoteness. “There’s often a cost, risk and budget decision involved in getting connectivity out to the remote mines,” Phillips said. “We’re making it easier and more

IMAGES: VOCUS

AI CAN BE USED TO IMPROVE COMMUNICATION DURING INCIDENTS AND TO REDUCE MANUAL WORKFLOWS.

scalable to get bandwidth where it’s needed so that miners can take advantage of the safety and productivity benefits of AI.” With Vocus’ support, mining operations can unlock significant gains from their sites. “Rather than sending data back to a capital city to make a decision, operators can now do it at the mine,” Phillips said. “That’s enabling things like driverless trucks, predictive maintenance and even automated blast-pattern planning to make safety an even bigger goal than it already is.” AI is also improving operational transparency. This has enabled many Vocus customers to automate their pit-toport haulage networks.

AUSTRALIANMINING 30 MAY 2025

IMAGE: GORODENKOFF/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

EFFICIENCY AND OPTIMISATION

“Miners can now track everything from when a load leaves the pit to when it’s loaded on a ship,” Phillips said. “That’s where you start to see a true digital highway emerge.” Mining camps have been another beneficiary. “Connectivity in camps is an expectation now,” Phillips said. “People want to be able to make video calls home, stream their shows or just unwind

THE VALUE OF DATA INSIGHTS LEVERAGING YOUR INFRASTRUCTURE.

after a shift. It’s about mental wellbeing and it plays a key role in employee satisfaction and retention.” While many major miners already have digital transformation plans underway, smaller operations are increasingly looking to digitalise their processes. “There’s a real distinction between Tier 1 and Tier 2 miners,” Phillips said. “The Tier 1s often have the budgets and in-house IP (intellectual property),

and what Vocus is doing is making that level of technology and insight more accessible to others.” But Phillips makes it clear: AI is not a silver bullet. “If your data is wrong, AI can’t help,” he said. “We always say not to automate bad things. You’ve got to get the data quality, consistency and integration right first to build a foundation.”

Reliable and efficient underground dewatering solutions

Truflo Pumps’ dewatering advisors will design the most efficient system for your underground water management—hard rock or coal mining. • • • •

IECEx Certified Explosion-proof Submersible Pumps Jumbo Face Dewatering Pumps Fishtanks – flameproof, non-flameproof and pneumatic Heliflo Helical Rotor Pumps; Pump Pods and High Head Pumps

Let’s connect! Schedule your

consultation and site assessment today

1800 813 677 truflopumps.com.au AUSTRALIA INDONESIA PHILIPPINES NEW ZEALAND AFRICA

AUSTRALIANMINING 31 MAY 2025

For Phillips and Vocus, supporting mining’s digital shift means more than just laying fibre. It means following the entire data journey from collection and transport to analysis and action. “We don’t just follow the network,” Phillips said. “We follow the data. That’s where the real value is. If you get that right, AI can transform your operations. “But it has to start with a strong, reliable foundation.” AM

EFFICIENCY AND OPTIMISATION

TRANSFORMING MINING OPERATIONS WITH SIMUL8

IMAGE: GORODENKOFF/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

oday’s digital era is enabling mining companies to gain a greater understanding of their operations. Solutions from software providers such as Minitab are providing the accurate and datadriven insights required to boost efficiency, reduce costs and ensure the environmental compliance of a mine site. Stockpile management plays a crucial role in maintaining production flow and avoiding costly bottlenecks. This is where Simul8 works its magic. Simul8 senior consultant Christoph Werner told Australian Mining just how the simulation software works. “Mining companies are looking at how they can manage stockpiles to prevent excessive build-up,” Werner said. “By testing different truck schedules and investment strategies, they can ensure stockpiles remain within optimal levels while also meeting environmental requirements.” The ability to simulate various scenarios helps mining companies make adjustments in real time, rather than reacting to problems after they occur. Digital twin technology is making this process even more precise. By creating a digital twin of stockpile operations and feeding it live data, mining companies can predict future challenges and adjust operations accordingly.

COMPANIES CAN FINE-TUNE THEIR PROCESSES WITH SIMUL8.

“We can create a digital twin of the stockpile operations and feed it with live data,” Werner said. “This allows us to run what-if scenarios and adjust operations dynamically instead of reacting after problems arise.” With this approach, companies can fine-tune their processes and ensure compliance with environmental and regulatory requirements. A common mining query is how to risk-assess stockpiles and fleets. “We can run simulations that explore the varying degrees in which operations can be impacted,” Werner said. “For instance, we can predict the consequences of a two-day storm vs. a five-day storm impacting truck schedules, and assess how quickly we see a bottleneck occurring and what needs to be done. “We can assess stockpile management risks by considering managerial decisions such as reducing the number of trucks, and a simulation can tell us the impact of possible bottlenecks. “We can also run different simulations to see how many trucks are required at different times, ensuring they are not under- or over-utilised.” By simulating different schedules and resource allocations, companies can anticipate challenges before they occur. Fleet investment is another key consideration for mining companies. With Simul8, miners can foresee the

IMAGE: MINITAB

MINITAB HAS DEVELOPED AN INNOVATIVE SOLUTION TO HELP MINERS INCREASE EFFICIENCY, REDUCE COSTS AND MEET REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS.

SOLUTIONS FROM MINITAB ARE PROVIDING THE DATADRIVEN INSIGHTS REQUIRED TO BOOST EFFICIENCY.

impact of new investments before committing, ensuring resources are allocated most effectively. Material routing is another key challenge, as ore quality can vary and must be managed accordingly. Diverse grades require different handling processes, so making the right decisions early can prevent unnecessary rework and loss of valuable resources. “We’ve seen companies use Simul8 to prioritise routing based on ore quality,” Werner said. “For example, if high-grade ore is coming in, they may want to route it differently to ensure it’s processed first, rather than mixing it with lowergrade material.” This level of control helps companies maintain product consistency and optimise stockpile management. One mining company that used Simul8 to improve stockpile management saw significant improvements in truck allocation and stockpile turnover. “Through Simul8, the company quickly built a simulation that showed how product gets separated from waste based on different ore grades,” Werner said. “Having assigned a certain number of trucks and other machinery to stockpiles, the simulation allowed the miner to test scenarios involving different truck numbers and schedules, including potential downtime. “This was done before the company made their investment, enabling them

AUSTRALIANMINING 32 MAY 2025

to implement an informed stockpile management strategy and avoid unnecessary spending.” Unpredictable disruptions such as adverse weather, truck breakdowns, or labour shortages can significantly impact operations. Simul8 helps companies model these disruptions and create contingency plans to minimise downtime. “By simulating different scenarios, such as truck breakdowns or weather delays, we can see how quickly operations can recover,” Werner said. “This allows companies to plan for disruptions and maintain productivity.” With these insights, mining companies can develop flexible strategies to handle unexpected challenges without suffering major financial losses. With market conditions and ore quality constantly changing, companies must adapt their operations in real time. “In mining operations, we often want to keep variance in product quality to a minimum to improve recoveries, while reliably filtering out waste,” Werner said. “Simul8 can route product volumes to different stockpiles based on their quality and we can test different scenarios to see the impact accepting a lower quality threshold has on stockpile build-up.” As technology continues to evolve, mining companies can use Minitab’s in-depth and actionable data to optimise operations and maximise profits. AM

CMY

AM_Print_Ad_Full_Page_DredgeRobotics_09042025.pdf 1 09/04/2025 08:32:02

CMY

EFFICIENCY AND OPTIMISATION

A HYBRID FOCUS

FIRST MODE’S TECHNOLOGY REPRESENTS THE FIRST COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE RETROFIT HYBRID SYSTEM FOR MINING EQUIPMENT.

ummins’ recent acquisition of multinational decarbonisation company First Mode has emphasised the company’s proactive approach to the energy transition, demonstrating its commitment to providing miners with the tools they need to reduce their carbon footprint. First Mode’s commercial operations in Australia (Perth), along with those in the US and Chile, are a key part of the deal. The acquisition sees Cummins bring First Mode’s hybrid mining, rail product lines and full intellectual property portfolio into the fold, including hydrogen and battery powertrain solutions. First Mode’s technology offers the first commercially available retrofit hybrid system for mining equipment, working to not just reduce carbon emissions, but also significantly lower the total cost of ownership, addressing a critical need in the industry. “It is an important step forward in our goal to lead our power systems customers through the energy transition,” Cummins president of power systems Jenny Bush said. “With First Mode’s hybrid retrofit technology, we are accelerating our ability to provide decarbonisation solutions that meet miners’ needs to drive down operating costs today.” Cummins’ commitment to carbon reduction extends beyond this acquisition. The company is actively pursuing multiple technology pathways to

IMAGES: CUMMINS

AUSTRALIA IS AMONG THE KEY MARKETS THAT WILL BENEFIT FROM CUMMINS INC.’S ACQUISITION OF FIRST MODE WITH ITS RETROFIT HYBRID SOLUTIONS FOR MINING AND RAIL.

support the mining industry’s shift towards sustainability. This includes the development of bridge technologies, such as product hybridisation and the use of clean fuels like ethanol and methanol. “Cummins’ dedication to partnering with original equipment manufacturers

adapting to evolving technologies and infrastructure.” With its vast global service network, Cummins is prepared to support newly developed bridge technologies, ensuring seamless integration and ongoing support for mining and rail applications.

CUMMINS QSK78 ENGINES FUELLED WITH RENEWABLE DIESEL WERE PART OF THE SUCCESSFUL RIO TINTO TRIAL IN THE US.

(OEMs) and miners ensures that these technologies are developed and tested in real-world environments,” Bush said. “With hybrid retrofit kits, modular component upgrades and scalable solutions, we are bringing miners the flexibility and confidence they need to decarbonise operations while

Cummins is already field testing a mining diesel-battery hybrid truck solution in China with North Hauler Joint Stock Limited (NHL). In the hybrid NTH260, a 220-tonne (t) payload mining truck, the hybrid system allows the truck engine to be downsized from the previous 2500

AUSTRALIANMINING 34 MAY 2025

horsepower (hp) QSK60 engine to the current 2000 hp two-stage QSK50. Field test results show 15–20 per cent average fuel savings compared to a nonhybrid system. Cummins, global miner Vale and Komatsu recently signed an agreement to develop and test dual fuel haul trucks, powered by a mixture of ethanol and diesel. They will be the world’s first dual-fuel powered trucks of their size, with payloads of 250–320t. Cummins’ hybrid solutions can also be used in-tandem with renewable diesel such as hydrated vegetable oil (HVO) to generate additional emissions benefits. All Cummins high-horsepower engines are approved for unblended use with 100 per cent HVO. Rio Tinto has also transitioned from conventional to renewable diesel for all heavy mining equipment at its Kennecott Bingham Canyon copper mine in Utah – the world’s deepest open pit mine. This follows a trial conducted in collaboration with Cummins in which Komatsu 930E haul trucks with QSK78 HPI and MCRS engines were fueled with renewable diesel. Rio Tinto’s Kennecott transition to renewable diesel includes its entire fleet of haul trucks and heavy machinery equipment, including 84 Komatsu 930 SE haul trucks powered with Cummins QSK78 engines. “I want to recognise our partners Cummins, who spearheaded the trial alongside us, and now HF Sinclair, who has helped implement the full use of renewable diesel today,” Rio Tinto Kennecott managing director Nate Foster said. AM

CMY

3-3_AusMining_InsertV1.pdf

2/27/25

10:40 AM

CMY

Self-Adjusting Skirting

..................................................

Skirtboard Liner

..................................................

External Wear Liner

ApronSeal™Skirting

ust and fines escaping at material transfer point locations impact safety, efficiency, and profitability. Martin's comprehensive containment solutions include the versatile ApronSeal™dual-seal skirting system, self-adjusting skirts for space-restricted areas, and engineered wear liner options to protect those sealing components from the impact and abrasion of tumbling material. These smart, field-proven, belt sealing systems deliver extended service life with minimal maintenance — reducing fugitive material cleanup and maximizing operation production.

For service, training or sales call 1300 627 364, email salesau@martin-eng.com or visit martin-eng.com.au. Martin Engineering Australia Pty Ltd, 102 Christensen Road South, Stapylton, QLD, 4207, Australia

LITHIUM

A ROARING ACHIEVEMENT THE KATHLEEN VALLEY OPERATION IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA HAS BECOME AUSTRALIA’S FIRST UNDERGROUND LITHIUM MINE. underground mining services contract awarded in August 2023. The contract is so far the largest for Kathleen Valley, with an approximate value of $1 billion over a four-year period. It includes operating costs, sustaining capital and capital associated with the operation of the underground mine. “This achievement was made possible by advanced planning, the dedication of our team and the support from our mining partner, Byrnecut, ensuring the first stope blast at Mt Mann proceeded as planned,” Liontown managing director and chief executive officer Tony Ottaviano said. Trials in March confirmed underground ore could be processed with a head grade of approximately 1.5 per cent lithium oxide, delivering lithia recoveries exceeding 70 per cent. Further optimisation through recovery improvement projects is expected to take place in the near future. “As part of normal preparations and planning, we undertook underground ore trials in the March quarter, in advance of first stoping, to understand the optimal plant performance settings,” Ottaviano said.

“The trials delivered results in line with our study work, which reinforces our confidence in transitioning to full underground operations. This milestone further strengthens our foundations for long-term value creation and future shareholder returns.” The ongoing underground mining ramp-up and its associated costs have been included in Liontown’s production guidance for H2 FY25, which aims to deliver a 2.8-million-tonnes-per-annum production rate from the end of FY27, with a focus on high margin tonnes and expected reduction in development and fixed costs. Liontown has built and paid for significant stockpiles as part of the transition from open-pit to underground mining, with the company stockpiling approximately 1.3 million tonnes (Mt) of ore as of December 31, 2024. Liontown is targeting high-margin ore from its underground operations, with the mill expected to be supplied solely by underground volumes and stockpiles by the fourth quarter of FY26. Underground mining operations at Kathleen Valley are expected to provide cleaner ore extraction by reducing ore

dilution from waste contamination, supporting higher lithia recoveries and improving ore fragmentation. This is something Liontown believes offers distinct advantages over traditional open-pit operations, further positioning the company to become an established world-class producer in the lithium sector. This is especially welcome, with lithium demand is forecast to grow by almost 13 per cent a year to 2030, driven by rising electric vehicle adoption and battery energy storage system deployment, according to the Department of Industry, Science and Resources’ March 2025 ‘Resources and Energy Quarterly’ report. Located about 60km north of Leinster and 680km north-east of Perth, Kathleen Valley currently holds a mineral resource estimate of 155Mt, with over 80 per cent of the mineral resource falling into the measured or indicated categories. Backed by a mine life in excess of 20 years and an expected production rate of 500,000t of spodumene concentrate per annum, Kathleen Valley has become Australia’s first underground lithium mine, signalling a new era for the critical mineral. AM IMAGE: LIONTOWN RESOURCES

ince commencing spodumene concentrate production in July 2024, Liontown Resources’ Kathleen Valley mine in Western Australia has been firing on all cylinders. From approving the declaration of commercial production at the Kathleen Valley processing plant – which took effect from January 1 – to producing 116,854 dry metric tonnes of spodumene in the first half of the 2024–25 financial year (H1 FY25), Kathleen Valley has gone from strength to strength. Adding to Liontown’s recent milestones is the achievement of the first stoping ore at the Mt Mann orebody within Kathleen Valley in April, marking a significant step in the transition from open-pit mining to underground operations. Approximately 1500 tonnes (t) of ore was extracted as part of an initial stope designed to extract approximately 12,000t of ore, an amount equivalent to about two days of plant production. The first firing was completed alongside Byrnecut as per an

LIONTOWN INITIALLY PLANS TO DELIVER ABOUT 500,000 TONNES OF SPODUMENE CONCENTRATE PER ANNUM FROM KATHLEEN VALLEY.

AUSTRALIANMINING 36 MAY 2025

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

IMAGES: WYLOO

NICKEL’S MOMENT TO SHINE

KAMBALDA IS WYLOO’S WA NICKEL OPERATION.

WYLOO IS LOOKING TO A NICKEL-RICH FUTURE AS IT FOCUSES ON DEVELOPING ITS PROJECTS IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA AND CANADA.

s the world shifts toward cleaner energy, nickel is set to play a pivotal role in this transition – and Wyloo, an emerging force in Australia’s nickel industry, is primed to take advantage. Although nickel prices have experienced a recent downturn as a result of oversupply in Indonesia, Wyloo believes the metal will return to higher levels as the energy transition deepens. Speaking with Australian Mining, Wyloo chief executive officer Luca Giacovazzi shared insights about the company’s strategy, its environmental commitments, and if nickel prices will rise again. “If you take a step back and look at the demand (for nickel), it has been growing consistently over the last 10 years,” Giacovazzi said. “We see nickel as a core part of the clean energy transition

and essential for EV (electric vehicle) batteries and renewable energy storage. The long-term fundamentals remain strong despite the recent price volatility.” According to analysis platform Benchmark, demand for battery nickel is expected to triple by 2030. “Long-term demand prospects remain bullish,” Benchmark said. “Benchmark projections indicate that nickel-based chemistries will capture 85 per cent battery cell production capacity outside of China by 2030, with production increasingly pivoting towards high-nickel chemistry longer term.” Giacovazzi knows the nickel market has faced challenges in recent months, but remains optimistic about the future. “Indonesia has played a huge role in bringing new supply online, which has impacted the nickel price in the short term,” Giacovazzi said.

“The market has seen too much supply too quickly, but we’re starting to see that slow down and balance out.” With nickel being one of the essential metals for electrification, Wyloo is determined to ensure Australia remains a key supplier of high-quality material. The company has been actively investing in its assets to optimise operations, drive efficiency and expand production. “We see nickel as a critical resource in the global push for electrification,” Giacovazzi said. “Our goal is to develop a sustainable, high-quality supply chain that supports the energy transition.” Giacovazzi said Wyloo remains focused on Western Australia nickel. “We’ve been deliberate about where we invest,” Giacovazzi said. “Western Australia is a Tier 1 jurisdiction with some of the best nickel sulphide

AUSTRALIANMINING 38 MAY 2025

resources in the world and we want to produce the best nickel for the global market.” But Wyloo doesn’t keep all its eggs in one basket; the company also has a suite of operations in Canada. Eagle’s Nest is one of Canada’s most significant high-grade nickelcopper-PGE (platinum group elements) deposits, located in the mineral-rich Ring of Fire region in northern Ontario. It contains a deposit of 17 million tonnes at 3.3 percent nickel, copper and platinum group elements. It also has some of the world’s largest chromite deposits outside of South Africa. The deposit represents a major opportunity to establish a world-class, sustainable nickel-mining operation. With a projected mine life exceeding 20 years and the potential to supply critical battery metals for the global energy transition, Eagle’s Nest is poised

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

EAGLE’S NEST IS ONE OF CANADA’S MOST SIGNIFICANT HIGH-GRADE NICKEL-COPPER-PGE DEPOSITS.

WYLOO CEO LUCA GIACOVAZZI SHARED INSIGHTS ABOUT THE COMPANY’S STRATEGY.

to become a cornerstone of North America’s clean energy supply chain. Wyloo is committed to developing the project responsibly, working closely with Indigenous communities and leveraging innovative, low-carbon technologies to ensure minimal environmental impact while maximising long-term economic benefits. Sustainability is at the heart of Wyloo’s operations and, with growing pressure on mining companies to reduce their environmental footprint, the company is taking proactive steps to integrate renewable energy and

lower-carbon processing technologies into its sites. Wyloo has bold ambitions, aiming to make Eagle’s Nest one of the smallest footprint mines in the world. “We’re actively looking at ways to lower our carbon footprint,” Giacovazzi said. “This includes integrating renewable energy solutions into our operations and exploring new processing technologies that reduce waste and emissions.” The site will also have its own recycling plant to ensure Eagle’s Nest doesn’t discharge water into the

environment, while the mine’s tailings will be stored underground, helping Wyloo achieve its environmental goals. Wyloo’s commitment to sustainability aligns with a broader industry shift. Investors, manufacturers and policymakers are increasingly prioritising ethically sourced, low-carbon nickel. Beyond its environmental efforts, Wyloo is deeply invested in the communities where it operates. The company recognises that a successful mining operation isn’t just about extracting resources – it’s about creating lasting economic and social benefits. “We believe in partnering with the communities where we operate,” Giacovazzi said. “That means creating jobs, investing in local infrastructure, and ensuring that the benefits of mining extend beyond our company.” The company will partner with Indigenous communities in developing the Eagle’s Nest mine, sourcing contractors and suppliers to support the mine. An agreement was signed in January between the Government of Canada and Indigenous and First Nations people to upgrade the infrastructure in northern Ontario, which would enable the mining of critical minerals in the Ring of Fire region. There is currently no road that reaches the isolated deposit in the James Bay area, with environment and technical studies for proposed roads ongoing.

AUSTRALIANMINING 39 MAY 2025

The improved roads would facilitate the transportation of materials to processing plants and connect First Nations communities to major highways. A key focus for Wyloo is working closely with Indigenous communities by fostering employment pathways and investing in skills training. Through this process, the company is helping to create opportunities for local workers while strengthening relationships with traditional landowners. With global demand for battery metals surging, Wyloo sees an opportunity to elevate Australia’s position in the nickel market. The company is actively working to increase production, optimise supply chains, and support the country’s growing role in the electrification movement. “The demand for nickel is only going to increase as electric vehicles and battery storage continue to grow,” Giacovazzi said. “We see a huge opportunity for Australia to be a major player in the global nickel market.” With a strong focus on sustainability, innovation and community engagement, Wyloo is helping to redefine what modern nickel mining looks like. “We’re excited about the future of nickel in Australia and the role we can play in shaping it,” Giacovazzi said. “Our focus is on responsible mining, innovation and ensuring that our operations create lasting value for all stakeholders.” AM

REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT

GLENCORE’S MOUNT ISA COPPER AND ZINC MINES MAKE UP ONE OF THE WORLD’S LARGEST MINING COMPLEXES.

AUSTRALIAN MINING EXPLORES THE HISTORY OF GLENCORE’S MOUNT ISA COPPER OPERATIONS IN QUEENSLAND AND HOW THE COMPANY IS ENSURING A SMOOTH CLOSURE OF THE ASSETS.

or 100 years, Queensland’s Mount Isa region has been a staple location to uncover and mine copper for Glencore. In fact, one of Australia’s most iconic and enduring natural resources companies, Glencore Mount Isa Mines, originated from the area in 1923 following the discovery of lead-silver ore by John Campbell Miles, a respected Australian prospector. Several diamond drilling programs were conducted to determine the full potential of Miles’ discovery, with one of the drill holes indicating the presence of copper. “Although traces of copper mineralisation were identified during late 1920s drilling efforts, the significant discovery occurred in 1930,” Glencore

said on its website. “During exploratory drilling for the lead-zinc ore body, almost 38m of copper mineralisation with an average grade of 4.3 per cent copper was discovered.” While the grade was encouraging, Mount Isa Mines didn’t have the funds to develop the copper deposit. “It wasn’t until global copper prices rose in 1937 that renewed interest in copper exploration emerged,” Glencore said. “(And) it wasn’t until 1940 and 1941 that significant progress was made in uncovering additional copper deposits. “Construction started in 1949 on a stack for the new copper smelter and extensions to the mill/concentrator to treat the copper ore.” Mount Isa Mines commenced construction of the copper production infrastructure in the early 1950s,

MOUNT ISA IS AN ICONIC MINING REGION FOR COPPER, ZINC, LEAD AND SILVER PRODUCTION.

with copper production activities starting in 1953. “In 1953, there was a significant milestone with the commencement of parallel production of copper, lead and zinc, further solidifying Mount Isa’s position as a hub of mining and metal production excellence,” Glencore said. “The copper refinery commenced operations in July 1959, with a capacity of 40,000 tonnes, heralding a new era of production that continues to

AUSTRALIANMINING 40 MAY 2025

operate today, with nearly 300,000 tonnes of saleable copper cathode produced annually.” Glencore continued diversifying its Mount Isa operations throughout the 1960s, producing copper, lead, zinc and silver. “Between 1969 and 1974, substantial advancements were made in the development of copper ore bodies and enhancements at the company’s Townsville refinery, resulting in

IMAGE: SEVENMAPS/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

MOUNT ISA: A DECADES-LONG LEGACY

REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT

located 140km north-west of Mount Isa, will also close in 2025. Glencore conducted a range of studies and reviews seeking to further extend the life of the underground copper mines, but the end of mine life was confirmed and the remaining mineral resources weren’t economically viable due to low ore grades and the lack of infrastructure to safely extract them. Other Mount Isa mines and operations will remain open, including the copper smelter, the George Fisher mine, the zinc-lead concentrator, the lead smelter, and the copper refinery in Townsville. “The reality of mining is that mines have a beginning, middle and end, and unfortunately, after 60 years of operation, Mount Isa’s underground copper operations have now reached that end,” Glencore chief operating officer for Australian zinc and copper assets Sam Strohmayr said in October 2023. “We want to give our people as much time as possible to consider the best options for them and their families, which is why we are notifying our workers and the community almost two years before these mines close. “Our focus over the coming months will be to work closely with our people and contractors, our suppliers, and

GLENCORE PRODUCED COPPER FROM ITS ENTERPRISE, X41 AND BLACK ROCK MINES IN MOUNT ISA.

IMAGE: CHRIS ISON/STOCK.ADOBE.COM

a remarkable upsurge in copper production,” Glencore said. Between the 1970s and 1990s, Glencore pioneered copper processing innovation through its ISASMELT smelting technology, IsaMill fine grinding technology and ISA PROCESS copper refining technology, as well as the commercialisation of the Jameson Cell flotation technology. In 2003, Swiss-based Xstrata acquired Mount Isa Mines. The operations were then split into distinct streams for copper and zinc. A decade later, Glencore International merged with Xstrata. The merged entity then became Glencore Mount Isa Mines in 2016. Glencore Mount Isa Mines continued its successful mining and processing operations into the late 2010s and early 2020s, adapting to shifts in the global mining industry, employing thousands of people and supplying copper to all corners of the globe. But, as they say, all good things must come to an end. In October 2023, Glencore announced its plans to close three of its Mount Isa copper mines – Enterprise, X41 and Black Rock – and its copper concentrator by the end of 2025. Glencore’s Lady Loretta zinc mine,

IMAGE: PHAWAT/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

IMAGE: CAM LAIRD/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

GLENCORE HAS BEEN MINING COPPER IN MOUNT ISA SINCE THE 1960S.

the Mount Isa community to provide support as we move towards closure of these assets.” The Queensland Government has announced a $50 million support package for the Mount Isa region and those affected by the impending mine closure. This included up to $20 million to be matched dollar-for-dollar by Glencore for an economic structural adjustment package for Mount Isa and north-west Queensland. The Queensland Government will also provide $30 million to support

exploration in the Northwest Minerals Province across the next five years. Despite the closure of Glencore’s Mount Isa copper operations being scheduled for July 2025, the company is minimising job losses while continuing to invest in its assets. “I want to make clear that Glencore is not going anywhere,” Strohmayr said in April. “The future for our long-life George Fisher mine, which produces zinc, lead and silver, is bright. With its life of mine to 2042, we are upskilling our workforce, expanding production and advancing our fleet.” AM

AUSTRALIANMINING 41 MAY 2025

COPPER

THE NEXT WAVE OF COPPER PRODUCERS COPPER, WHICH HAS BEEN USED BY HUMANITY FOR MORE THAN 10,000 YEARS, IS NEEDED NOW MORE THAN EVER AS A VITAL COMPONENT FOR THE ENERGY TRANSITION.

ustralia’s copper mining landscape is experiencing a dynamic transformation, with emerging projects across South Australia, Western Australia and Queensland poised to help meet the escalating global demand for this essential metal. These developments underscore Australia’s pivotal role in the global copper industry.

South Australia

BHP’s Oak Dam deposit, located approximately 65km south-east of the company’s Olympic Dam project 560km north of Adelaide, is emerging as a significant iron oxide copper-gold mineralised system. “Exploration undertaken to date has indicated the presence of high-grade copper and associated minerals that may be economically viable to mine,” BHP said.

“Further exploration is required to better define the resource and enable BHP to make decisions about possible future development activity.” The major miner has applied to the South Australian Department for Energy and Mining to seek approval for a retention lease and miscellaneous purposes licences. More than 500km south of Oak Dam lies the Hillside project, recently purchased by MACH Metals Australia in its $265 million acquisition of Rex Minerals and recognised as one of Australia’s largest undeveloped copper projects. Situated on the Yorke Peninsula in SA, Hillside boasts a mineral resource of 1.9 million tonnes (Mt) of copper and 1.5 million ounces of gold. The project involves the development of an open-pit mine and associated processing plant and infrastructure to mine and process the ore before shipping marketable concentrates.

MACH managing director Ferdian Purnamasidi expressed his excitement about the acquisition of Rex and Hillside. “We are excited to acquire and continue the development of the Hillside project, which aligns with our strategy to diversify our asset portfolio,” Purnamasidi said. “Our strong focus on copper is critical to the energy transition process. We remain committed to advancing the excellent work undertaken by Rex on the Yorke Peninsula, including supporting the local workforce and the broader Yorke Peninsula community throughout the ownership transition.” Another SA copper site, Coda Minerals’ Elizabeth Creek coppercobalt project, is strategically located approximately 30km south-east of Woomera and 135km north-west of Port Augusta. The company had a scoping study conducted in February 2024 at

IMAGE: MAC COPPER

MAC COPPER’S CSA MINE IN NEW SOUTH WALES.

AUSTRALIANMINING 42 MAY 2025

Elizabeth Creek, boosting the project’s net present value by $165 million, to $735 million. “By any measure, this is an excellent result and demonstrates that Elizabeth Creek remains an attractive development opportunity in what has the potential to be a huge copper bull market as the world pursues decarbonisation,” Coda Minerals chief executive officer Chris Stevens said. Stevens said the scoping study demonstrates that Elizabeth Creek can produce 25,400 tonnes of copper per annum (tpa) and 1300tpa of cobalt. To achieve those outcomes, Coda Minerals must finance around $540 million and is exploring various strategies such as sale, partial sale or joint venture to do so.

Western Australia

Cyprium Metals is leading the redevelopment of the Nifty copper project in WA.

COPPER

IMAGE: PHAWAT/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

THE ENERGY TRANSITION IS DRIVING INCREASED DEMAND FOR COPPER.

WA’s mining sector, contributing to the diversification of the state’s mineral production portfolio. Elsewhere in WA, Caravel Minerals is developing the Caravel copper project, located 150km north-east of Perth. This project stands as the largest undeveloped copper resource in WA, with over 1.43Mt of contained copper. Ongoing exploration and feasibility studies aim to optimise its development,

positioning Caravel as a significant future contributor to the state’s copper output. Joining Caravel on the emerging miners train is AuKing Mining’s Koongie Park project, an exploration venture with resources of copper, zinc, silver and lead. AuKing has entered into an agreement to earn a substantial interest in the project, highlighting its potential for significant resource development.

IMAGE: PARILOV/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

The company has formed strategic alliances to expedite the project’s progress, aiming to establish a largescale, long-life operation. Cyprium signed a non-binding head of agreement in January, with Macmahon Holdings to take the lead role in the bankable feasibility study. The company will contribute to the planning, engineering, estimation and project management resources to complete the study and restart copper production. “The strategic alliance with Macmahon represents a significant step forward in enhancing our operational and execution capacity, building required capability through partnership,” Cyprium executive chair Matt Fifield said. “Macmahon is a recognised leader in mining services, bringing extensive expertise in engineering, procurement and best-in-class operating and environmental systems.” Once operational, Nifty is expected to contribute significantly to the state’s copper production, aligning with global demand trends. Another upcoming WA project is a joint venture between Develop Global and Anax Metals, two companies that are advancing the Sulphur Springs copper-zinc project. The venture is part of a broader trend of new and resumed mining operations anticipated to drive Australia’s copper production recovery in the coming years. The development of Sulphur Springs is expected to play a pivotal role in

COPPER PROJECTS ARE EMERGING ACROSS SA, WA AND QUEENSLAND.

AUSTRALIANMINING 43 MAY 2025

Exploratory drilling programs remain ongoing, with Koongie Park expected to commence its operations soon, thereby enhancing the state’s copper production capabilities.

Queensland

True North Copper recently launched a 15-hole, 2900m reverse circulation drilling program aimed at reviving the Great Australia mine (GAM) in Cloncurry. “These targets within key mineralised structural trends indicate the potential for discovery of new large zones of mineralisation that could add significantly to the resource base at GAM,” True North said. True North began drilling in late March, with the program running for two weeks before moving to the Mt Oxide project. “Through the induced polarisation geophysical survey at GAM, our exploration team has successfully defined several additional, highly prospective targets along strike, down dip and between known resources within the extensive GAM mineral system,” True North managing director Bevan Jones said. “Since Ernest Henry discovered Great Australia in 1867, exploration in this area has been sporadic. “However, we believe that GAM, Taipan, Orphan Shear and these newly identified targets are part of a larger, interconnected mineralised system with the potential to aggregate into a significantly larger resource base than previously envisioned.” This initiative underscores True North Copper’s commitment to expanding its resource base and contributing to Queensland’s copper sector.

IMAGE: SERENA FINDLAY

COPPER

HILLGROVE RESOURCES’ KANMANTOO COPPER OPERATION IN SA.

Another key copper mine in Queensland is Harmony Gold’s Eva project. The company received a conditional State Government grant of $20.7 million in 2024 to develop Eva. The funding will be permitted under the $30 million Mount Isa Mining Acceleration Program, which aims to expedite mining projects in the North West Minerals Province over the next five years. Eva is expected to generate approximately 800 construction jobs and create 450 operational jobs, with a minimum life of 15 years. The development aligns with Queensland’s strategic initiatives to bolster its mining sector and support regional economies. Local officials and industry leaders are advocating for the expedited construction of the copper string transmission line to connect Mt Isa to the national grid, aiming to reduce power costs and attract new mining ventures. This development is deemed crucial for unlocking the region’s mineral potential and ensuring the longevity of its mining operations.

Current producers

Some current producers for other companies to look up to include MAC Copper, Hillgrove Resources and Aeris Resources.

AUSTRALIA’S COPPER MINING LANDSCAPE IS EXPERIENCING A DYNAMIC TRANSFORMATION, WITH PROJECTS ACROSS SA, WA AND QUEENSLAND POISED TO HELP MEET GLOBAL DEMAND.” MAC Copper has strengthened confidence in the long-term future of the CSA copper mine in NSW, extending its mine life to 12 years based solely on updated mineral reserves. CSA boasts 545,000 tonnes of contained copper at an average grade of 3.4 per cent copper and 13.3 grams per tonne (g/t) gold in updated mineral reserves, with total mineral resources now sitting at 464,000 tonnes of copper at an average grade of 5.4 per cent copper and 19g/t gold. The company has maintained its twoyear production guidance, expecting 43,000–48,000 tonnes of copper in 2025, and up to 53,000 tonnes in 2026, with grades expected to reach an average as high as 4 per cent copper next year.

Much of the improved confidence in the mine’s performance comes from tighter dilution control and the ability to better sequence high-grade stopes. Hillgrove Resources posted record production from its Kanmantoo copper mine in February, with 1105 tonnes of the metal produced. A total of 116,000 tonnes of ore was processed at a grade of 1.01 per cent and a 94.2 per cent recovery. The company said it was on track for 12,000–14,000 tonnes of copper produced for 2025, which will grow in 2026 with the accelerated development of Nugent. “I am pleased to report continued improvement in our mine physicals, which has seen a record achieved for copper production in February, despite February being a 28-day month,” Hillgrove chief executive officer and managing director Bob Fulker said. “In addition, there were record daily averages for both development and ore mining. ‘The excellent operational delivery in these key metrics shows our continual improvement and debottlenecking of the mine that is delivering tangible results.” The company also recorded 584m of development, achieving a new record daily average for a month.

AUSTRALIANMINING 44 MAY 2025

Hillgrove’s latest figures outshine the company’s December 2024 quarterly average, which saw 879 tonnes of copper produced per month. Another producer is Aeris Resources, which recently released an updated mineral resource estimate (MRE) for the Constellation deposit within its Tritton copper operation in NSW. Constellation now comprises 7.6Mt at 2.01 per cent copper, 0.66g/t gold and 2.5g/t silver, equating to 153,000 tonnes of copper and 161,000 ounces of gold. This represents a 24 per cent increase in contained copper and a 29 per cent increase in contained gold from the previous MRE released in August 2022. Aeris has significantly increased Constellation’s indicated resources (5.3Mt at 1.75 per cent copper), which now make up 70 per cent of the resource. This provides a strong basis for conversion to probable ore reserve. “This is a great outcome for Aeris and confirms our confidence in Constellation becoming a major ore source for Tritton in the near future,” Aeris executive chair Andre Labuschagne said. “Focus will now turn to completing the feasibility study on the deposit and declaring a maiden ore reserve. With over 5Mt now in indicated status, we have a strong foundation for this initial ore reserve.” AM

Making M aking g Machines Smarter

Unlock the Full Power of Predictive Maintenance with AI Sensor Fusion Technology Optimize Planned vs. Unplanned Maintenance for peak efficiency Reduce unplanned maintenance hours and disruptions Lower total maintenance expenses Enhance annual plant output and operational performance Save significantly on repair and maintenance costs Extend the equipment lifespan with smarter, AI-driven maintenance strategies

Join the revolution in AI-driven predictive maintenance! Get in touch today. Scan the QR code to contact us

AUSTRALIANMINING 45 MAY 2025

www.razor-labs.com

COMMODITY SPOTLIGHT

A URANIUM REVIVAL AUSTRALIA HOLDS THE WORLD’S LARGEST URANIUM RESOURCES, BUT IS YET TO UNLOCK ITS FULL POTENTIAL.

s the global energy landscape undergoes a rapid transformation, nuclear energy is once again gaining traction as a reliable, low-emissions

power source. A new report from the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) has shed light on the soaring demand for uranium and the critical role that countries like Australia are poised to play in supplying it. Now in its 30th edition, the Uranium Resources, Production and Demand report (referred to as the ‘Red Book’ of the uranium sector) details the shifting dynamics of global uranium supply and demand. With more than 60 new reactors currently under construction worldwide and dozens more planned, the report forecasts a significant supply shortfall by the early 2030s unless new production sources are developed and brought online. As countries ramp up their commitments to net-zero targets, nuclear energy is proving indispensable for decarbonisation strategies, particularly in nations where baseload reliability is crucial. But as demand for uranium accelerates, questions are being raised about where this supply will come from. With Australia holding the largest known recoverable uranium resources

in the world – around 28 per cent of the global total – the country’s reserves, stable political environment, and established mining expertise make it a natural leader in the next era of nuclear power. But while the potential is immense, challenges remain – most notably, the strict and fragmented regulations surrounding uranium exploration and development across the nation. According to the NEA report, global uranium exploration and development expenditure more than doubled from a low of $US377 million in 2020 to over $US840 million in 2023. Leading the way in this growth are countries like Canada, China, and Russia. Australia, despite its unmatched resource base, ranks seventh for uranium exploration spend. The discrepancy highlights the barriers faced by miners and explorers, particularly the differing regulatory frameworks across Australian states and territories. In South Australia and the Northern Territory, uranium mining is permitted under strict conditions. But in Western Australia, Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales, bans or moratoriums continue to restrict exploration and mining. This patchwork of legislation complicates investment decisions and suppresses momentum at a time when the world needs uranium the most.

Despite these headwinds, the Australian uranium sector is showing signs of renewed life. A shining example of this is Boss Energy’s Honeymoon uranium project in South Australia, which commenced commercial production in January 2025. Following a robust ramp-up during the December 2024 quarter, Honeymoon is targeting 850,000 pounds of uranium production for the 2024–25 financial year, with a cost guidance of $37–41 per pound. Boss managing director Duncan Craib said the project was progressing smoothly and remains cost-competitive within the current uranium market. “The ramp-up of operations continued to proceed on schedule across all key production metrics,” Craib said. “Given this success, we have officially declared commercial production, with cost guidance provided for the second half of FY25 of $37–41/lb uranium. “This compares favourably to other uranium development projects and is in line with inflationary increases recorded since the June 2021 enhanced feasibility study.” The December quarter alone saw a 53 per cent increase in uranium drummed to 137,084 pounds, alongside a 96 per cent increase in ion exchange production to 215,319 pounds. Another key contributor to Australia’s uranium profile is BHP’s Olympic Dam operation in South Australia.

IMAGE: MACROECON/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

BOSS ENERGY’S HONEYMOON URANIUM PROJECT IN SA COMMENCED COMMERCIAL PRODUCTION IN JANUARY.

AUSTRALIANMINING 46 MAY 2025

Olympic Dam is one of the world’s most significant polymetallic deposits, containing copper, gold, silver, and uranium. The site holds the largest known single deposit of uranium in the world, and while uranium is a secondary product at the operation, its annual production capacity is substantial. Olympic Dam produced 3189 tonnes (7.03 million pounds) of uranium oxide in 2024, making it a globally important source of supply. BHP has also invested in modernising and expanding its operations to improve processing efficiencies and environmental outcomes, including plans to decarbonise its broader South Australian footprint. Combined with the emergence of projects like Honeymoon, the exploration industry and major players like BHP are helping to reposition Australia in the global uranium conversation. NUCLEAR ENERGY IS PROVING INDISPENSABLE FOR DECARBONISATION STRATEGIES.

COMMODITY SPOTLIGHT

THE RECENTLY CLOSED RANGER MINE IN THE NT WAS AUSTRALIA’S LONGEST CONTINUALLY OPERATING URANIUM MINE.

IMAGE: JOHN CARNEMOLLA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

While other nations ramp up investment in uranium exploration, Australia’s hands remain partly tied. This is especially important given the NEA’s warning of looming supply shortfalls. Without new production coming online in the next five to 10 years, the world risks running headlong

into a uranium crunch, one that could stall the momentum of the cleanenergy transition. The commercial success of Boss Energy at Honeymoon and the steady output from BHP’s Olympic Dam are proving that Australian uranium is viable, scalable, and globally competitive.

With rising geopolitical instability in traditional supply regions like Kazakhstan and Russia, Australia’s importance as a stable uranium supplier cannot be overstated. The clean-energy transition needs uranium. Australia has it but just needs the green light to go after it. AM IMAGE: BARMALINI/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

The recently closed Ranger mine in the Northern Territory was Australia’s longest continually operating uranium mine. It provided international customers in the global energy market a safe and reliable supply of uranium ore concentrate for the four decades since production began. Ranger produced more than 132,000 tonnes of uranium oxide under various ownerships, making it one of three mines in the world to produce more than 120,000 tonnes. When Ranger was open, approximately half of all the uranium exported by Australia was produced by the mine. Ranger was also a major local employer, catalyst for the establishment of the town of Jabiru and significantly underpinned the local economy. This shows the potential for Australia to truly seize its uranium opportunity, but broader support is required. Regulatory reform at both state and federal levels will be key to unlocking investment in exploration and ensuring Australia remains a reliable and responsible supplier of uranium into the future. Currently, the inconsistencies between jurisdictions remain a barrier to growth.

AUSTRALIANMINING 47 MAY 2025

INDUSTRY EVENTS

THE HONEYMOON MINE PRODUCED ITS FIRST DRUM OF URANIUM IN MAY 2024.

A BEATING DRUM BOSS ENERGY MANAGING DIRECTOR AND CEO DUNCAN CRAIB ON WHAT ATTENDEES CAN EXPECT FROM THE COMPANY’S PRESENCE AT AIMEX 2025.

ow owned by Prime Creative Media, AsiaPacific’s International Mining Exhibition (AIMEX) is set to make a grand return in 2025. Taking place at the Adelaide Showground, AIMEX will bring local and international mining suppliers and industry professionals under one roof while highlighting the latest developments. This includes uranium, which has surged back to prominence in recent years through a global nuclear revival. A company making waves in the uranium sector is Boss Energy, the 100 per cent owner and operator of the Honeymoon mine in South Australia. Since producing its first drum of uranium from Honeymoon in May 2024, Boss is ramping up operations. “We’ve gradually increased our production profile so we will hit our 2024–25 financial year production guidance of 850,000 pounds by June 2025,” Boss managing director and chief executive officer Duncan Craib told Australian Mining. “The ramp-up is to achieve 1.6 million pounds (Mlb) by June 2026, then we will work towards the nameplate capacity of 2.45Mlbs per annum.”

Honeymoon’s mining method is insitu recovery (ISR), which uses a fluid mix of water and reagents to recover valuable uranium from the ground. “Each wellfield processes a pregnant leach solution through an ion exchange circuit to produce drums of uranium,” Craib said. “In the last 12 months, wellfields one and two have come into production. Now we are bringing wellfield three online. In terms of the ion exchange circuit, columns one and two have been operating at nameplate capacity and we expect to bring on column three soon.”

A key fuel for nuclear energy, uranium is essential in providing baseload power supply. “Australia has about a third of the world’s natural uranium resources, so there is opportunity to create a strong, robust industry,” Craib said. “Just as Australia is weaning itself off fossil fuels, now is a wonderful opportunity to start focusing on another commodity such as uranium, which has proven itself as a key material in the clean-energy transition.” Honeymoon’s contributions to the South Australian economy will be front and centre of Boss’ presence at

BOSS ENERGY IS WORKING TO BRING WELLFIELD THREE ONLINE AT THE HONEYMOON MINE.

AUSTRALIANMINING 48 MAY 2025

AIMEX’s Mining Pavilion, a designated area for mining companies to showcase their initiatives and projects, engage with the community and suppliers, and drive recruitment. Boss will showcase opportunities to get involved in Honeymoon’s ramp-up, specifically the skillset required to carry out ISR. “All mines have geologists,” Craib said. “What’s different about Honeymoon is that ISR involves hydrogeologists who track the fluid of lixiviant under the ground and look at groundwater. These are specialised skills.

INDUSTRY EVENTS

“Our hydrogeologists were trained at universities in South Australia, which means the state can be a platform for other South Australians to develop niche mining skills and capitalise on the various opportunities available in the industry. “Boss wants to demonstrate the opportunities at Honeymoon, and showcase our ESG (environmental, social, and governance) principles, community engagement, Native Title approach, royalty payments, and how we’re contributing to the state.” Craib will also participate in the AIMEX conference program, shedding light on Boss’ history and how it plans to grow in the coming years. “We’re expanding through our 30 per cent interest in the Alta Mesa project in Texas, US, and our 19 per cent interest in Laramide Resources, a Queensland uranium developer,” Craib said. “I’ll also discuss uranium’s general market conditions, supply and demand dynamics and how the commodity is used around the world to produce clean energy.” Like other miners, Boss views AIMEX as an opportunity for attendees, speakers and decision-makers to mingle and connect with one another face-to-face. “It’s about helping one another when it comes to matters such as the environment, health and safety,” Craib said. “It provides an opportunity to share knowledge and work with the community.” AM AIMEX 2025 will be held at Adelaide Showground from September 23–25. To take part in the event, visit aimex.com. au/getinvolved

COLUMNS ONE AND TWO AT THE HONEYMOON MINE ARE OPERATING AT NAMEPLATE CAPACITY.

AUSTRALIANMINING 49 MAY 2025

IMAGES: BOSS ENERGY

AT AIMEX 2025, BOSS ENERGY WILL SHOWCASE WAYS FOR PEOPLE TO GET INVOLVED IN HONEYMOON’S RAMP-UP.

INDUSTRY EVENTS

WA MINING: THE BEST IN SAFETY A MAJOR THEME OF THE 2025 WA MINING CONFERENCE IS LOOKING TO THE FUTURE AND BLACKWOODS, AN INNOVATOR IN WORKER SAFETY, COULDN’T MISS IT. IMAGE: PRIME CREATIVE MEDIA

A MAJOR THEME OF THE WA MINING CONFERENCE IS LOOKING TO THE FUTURE.

“We might also offer demonstrations and interactive sessions to showcase the practical applications of our offerings.” Among the highlights will be new products geared towards safety, efficiency, and sustainability – three of the key focus areas for miners in 2025 and beyond. “We expect to introduce new products and solutions that cater to current industry demands, such as advanced safety equipment, innovative tools, and sustainable solutions,” Aghazamani said. “These offerings aim to enhance operational efficiency and safety in mining operations.” With the mining industry navigating a period of transformation, from electrification and automation to supply chain volatility and ESG pressures, events like WA Mining play an essential role in helping stakeholders come together, share insights, and forge new solutions. “The WA Mining Conference offers a valuable platform for suppliers to connect with key stakeholders, including decision-makers, industry leaders, and potential clients,” Aghazamani said. “It facilitates networking, knowledge sharing, and the opportunity to build lasting business relationships.” As a trusted supplier to some of Australia’s largest mining operations, Blackwoods understands the challenges facing the sector. The company believes its offerings, which range from high-performance PPE to technical services and integrated supply solutions, have a critical role to play in enabling safer, smarter, and more sustainable mining.

IMAGE: BLACKWOODS

s the WA Mining Conference & Exhibition (WA Mining) prepares to return to Perth this October 8–9, one of Australia’s leading industrial and safety suppliers is making its presence felt. Blackwoods has signed on as a sponsor of the 2025 event, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to the mining sector and its role in shaping the future of the industry. Sponsoring WA Mining isn’t just a strategic decision for Blackwoods – it’s a reflection of the company’s values and its drive to support Australia’s resources industry through innovation, connection, and hands-on support. “Blackwoods views the WA Mining Conference and Exhibition as a prime opportunity to highlight their dedication to the mining industry, boost brand recognition, and engage with key industry figures,” Blackwoods marketing activation manager Mahnaz Aghazamani told Australian Mining. “Sponsoring this event aligns with our mission to support the mining community and stay updated with industry advancements.” WA Mining has quickly cemented itself as a key event for mining professionals in Western Australia, bringing together engineers, suppliers, executives, and key decision-makers under one roof to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping the sector. For Blackwoods, the conference provides a critical platform to showcase not only their product range but also the company’s depth of knowledge and long-standing partnerships across the resources supply chain. “This partnership signifies Blackwoods’ commitment to the mining sector,” Aghazamani said. “It allows us to showcase our expertise, connect with potential clients and solidify our reputation as a top supplier of industrial and safety products.” Attendees at this year’s event can expect an interactive experience from the Blackwoods team, with product demonstrations, expert insights, and a range of new offerings designed to meet the evolving mining demands. “Attendees can anticipate Blackwoods presenting our latest products and solutions, sharing expert knowledge, and engaging in discussions about industry trends and challenges,” Aghazamani said.

BLACKWOODS HAS SIGNED ON AS A SPONSOR OF THE 2025 EVENT, REINFORCING ITS LONG-STANDING COMMITMENT TO THE MINING SECTOR.

“Key challenges include ensuring safety, improving operational efficiency, and addressing environmental concerns,” Aghazamani said. “Blackwoods aims to tackle these challenges by offering high-quality, reliable products and solutions that enhance safety, streamline operations, and support sustainable practices.” Beyond product showcases and presentations, Blackwoods sees WA Mining as an opportunity to understand the needs of the industry and work collaboratively towards better outcomes. “These events provide excellent networking opportunities, allowing businesses and professionals to connect, share insights, and explore potential collaborations,” Aghazamani said. “They offer a platform for learning, inspiration, and the exchange of innovative ideas, leading to new business opportunities and professional growth.” With over 145 years of service to Australian industry, Blackwoods is not only attending WA Mining as a

AUSTRALIANMINING 50 MAY 2025

supplier, but as a partner in the mining sector’s future. Its sponsorship reflects a belief in the importance of community, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Aghazamani said Blackwoods is proud to support events that help drive the growth of mining across WA. “We want to highlight our commitment to continuous improvement and innovation, our dedication to customer satisfaction, and our role in supporting the mining sector’s transition towards more sustainable and efficient practices,” she said. As the sector continues to evolve, partnerships like this help ensure suppliers and operators are aligned in their mission: to build a safer, more productive, and more sustainable future for Australian mining. AM The WA Mining Conference will be held in Perth from October 8–9. For more information, visit waminingexpo. com.au/getinvolved

REMOTELY OPERATED VEHICLES Ideal for complex vacuuming and industrial cleaning requirements. Gerotto robots are designed with no-man entry solutions for maximum operator safety.

INNOVATION

SAFETY

SOLUTIONS

Our innovative and safe range of cuttingedge equipment are perfect for industrial maintenance, cleaning of storage tanks, pipelines, confined spaces, ATEX zones, underwater environments and more.

Gerotto robotic equipment provides the means to manage any difficult or hazardous task conducted without the risk of operator injury or fatigue.

There is an extensive range of accessory options available that ensures there are solutions for removing materials from even the most challenging sites.

Whether it’s the Gerotto Lombrico, the Gerotto Gatto or other advanced robot models, you can count on exceptional safety and efficiency. LEARN MORE ABOUT GEROTTO PRODUCTS AU 1300 567 784 NZ 0800 567 691 E info@kor.com.au kor.com.au

EQUIPMENT

THE ALL-NEW FORD RANGER SUPER DUTY FORD MOTOR COMPANY HAS DEBUTED ITS FORD RANGER SUPER DUTY, BUILT WITH ENHANCED VERSATILITY, DURABILITY AND RELIABILITY.

he new Ford Ranger Super Duty is inspired by inside knowledge from the heavyduty industry, creating a vehicle suitable for the ‘toughest jobs’. “We are taking global mid-size truck capability to a whole new level, straight from the factory,” Ford Australia vice president, advanced product development Jim Baumbick said. “We listened to what the hardest working fleet operators told us they needed to be more productive, and we’ve developed a Ranger with heavy-duty hardware and enhanced capability to stay on the job longer and help get it done sooner.” The Ranger Super Duty has set a new industry benchmark with its 4500kg gross vehicle mass (GVM), 4500kg maximum braked towing, and 8000kg gross combined mass. The vehicle can be purchased in two trim levels: the Ranger Super Duty and Ranger Super Duty XLT (arriving mid-2026). The Ranger Super Duty XLT caters to long-distance capability demands while levelling up driver experience

with unique alloy wheels and touringfocused upgrades. This original variant features a midsize pickup segment while also bringing safety, versatility, connectivity, and comfort, with the capacity to drive with up to 600kg of mud stuck to the truck.

The weightlifter

While the chassis dimensions remain the same, the Ford Ranger Super Duty offers a thicker frame than its predecessor to level up strength, performance and load-carrying capacity. This enables the vehicle to unlock its 4500kg GVM rating. Delivered with EU6.2 compliance and fitted with a three-litre turbo diesel V6 attuned for heavy-duty emissions standards, the vehicle is ready to tackle global markets and difficult terrain. A 130-litre long-range tank and thick steel shielding ensures full tank protection and an extended off-road range. The Ranger Super Duty boasts a series of high-strength bash plates that shield the engine, transmission and fuel tank, and a front differential and transfer case. “With enhanced capability and developed for hard work, we know

Ranger Super Duty will be pushed to the limits on some of the toughest terrain on the planet,” Burn said. Based on Ford’s advanced fourwheel drive (4WD) system, the Ranger Super Duty is fitted with a permanent 4A setting to consistently deliver the greatest amount of torque to provide enhanced traction and control for highand low-grip surfaces. “Ranger Super Duty’s two-speed transfer case features larger, stronger components than other Ranger variants for enhanced durability,” Burn said. “To ensure this truck can handle life in lowrange in extreme terrain, the low-range gearset has been upgraded to match the F-Series Super Duty.” The Super Duty boasts a range of trailblazing features including the SYNC screen that can monitor the weight being loaded into the load box, front and rear locking differentials, six selectable drive modes, improved water wading depth and the option to manually delay the automatic diesel particulate filter (DPF). “While a DPF is part of the emissions management system, being able to delay and then manually initiate a DPF

clean will be a useful feature for those customers who operate in a high fire-risk environment,” Burn said. The six selectable drive modes: normal, eco, tow/haul, mud/ruts, sand and rock crawl, provide a range of vehicle settings to make it easier to drive off-road. The all-new rear differential is the most advanced to ever grace a production Ranger, with a stronger front and rear driveshaft and a new heavy-duty rear axle. To help spread the load, the Ranger Super Duty boasts eight-stud wheel hubs with larger bolts.

Rigorous testing

The Ranger Super Duty has undergone relentless simulations on terrain emulating rocky dry riverbeds to ensure it’s driver ready, with autonomous driving robots implanted to run 24–7 tests on Ford Australia’s You Yangs Proving Ground in Victoria. Numerous other tests took place including 24–7 corrosion baths, towing dynos, shaker rig testing, real-world offroading, and more low-speed, low-range heavy load driving. “Our Silver Creek and autonomous driving robots were designed and

IMAGES: FORD

THE FORD RANGER SUPER DUTY HAS SET A NEW INDUSTRY BENCHMARK WITH ITS 4500KG GROSS VEHICLE MASS.

AUSTRALIANMINING 52 MAY 2025

EQUIPMENT

THE FORD RANGER SUPER DUTY CLAIMS TO TOW MORE THAN ANY OTHER FACTORY-BUILT MID-SIZE PICKUP.

developed in North America for the testing and development of the original F-Series Super Duty and have been a part of global Built Ford Tough testing ever since,” Baumbick said. “We torture test our trucks to earn the name Super Duty. For instance, to make sure Ranger Super Duty is ready for almost any work environment, we created an even tougher mud pack test to simulate mine work.”

Towing made easier

The Ford Ranger Super Duty claims to tow more than any other factorybuilt mid-size pickup, with the latest version boasting a yaw rate sensor to help automatically manage trailer angle. The Super Duty is installed with Pro-Trailer Backup Assist, a recalibrated integrated trailer brake controller which makes reversing easier than ever. “Using a yaw rate sensor to guide ProTrailer Backup Assist makes for faster set up and running of the system, which we felt was important given Ranger Super Duty is all about work,” Ford Australia chief program engineer Dave Burn said. “Able to store up to 10 trailers and only requiring calibration once per trailer, Pro Trailer Backup Assist makes manoeuvring heavy trailers much easier.” The vehicle introduces Ford’s Smart Hitch and onboard scales, making it easy for drivers to understand weight on their tow ball and give directions on how to best adjust trailer

load in the trailer, ensuring optimal load distribution. Additionally, the truck has sensors in the wheel suspension, assisting drivers to estimate their payload and specify additional load for inclusion in payload estimation. The Ranger Super Duty has been created to combat extreme locations such as remote mine sites, with stronger components and fuel, and differential, transmission and transfer case breathers mounted high.

“Extensive testing in controlled and real-world situations proved Ranger Super Duty has the capability needed for all manner of users from emergency services to farmers and recreational off-roaders,” Burn said. “We’ve tested Ranger Super Duty in extreme conditions where a vehicle with open differentials would have become stuck and unable to proceed. Thanks to a locking front and rear differential and an enhanced low-range gearset and a host of other off-road improvements, Ranger

A 130-LITRE LONG-RANGE TANK AND THICK STEEL SHIELDING ENSURES FULL TANK PROTECTION AND AN EXTENDED OFF-ROAD RANGE.

AUSTRALIANMINING 53 MAY 2025

Super Duty performed flawlessly. “The capability of Ranger Super Duty is unmatched in the mid-sized truck segment. It really is the sum of all its parts and we’re confident that whether your job is extreme or you’re an adventurer who likes to go a long way off the beaten track, Ranger Super Duty will get you there and back again.” Sales in Australia and New Zealand are set to open in late 2025 with the Ranger Super Duty to arrive in dealerships in 2026. AM

MINING CAREERS

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT

atthew Manns has added many strings to his professional bow during his time at National Group. A diesel mechanic by trade, Manns has taken on leadership responsibilities with gusto, elevating himself to become the maintenance superintendent at BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s (BMA) Peak Downs coal mine in Queensland. This was after serving in a variety of roles, including leading-hand supervisor, short-term maintenance planner, maintenance supervisor, and senior maintenance supervisor across National Group’s BMA contracts throughout the Bowen Basin. Manns joined National Group in 2017 after hearing good things about the company from a previous colleague. And he hasn’t looked back since. “We have a large fleet of dry-hire assets currently working at Peak Downs, and I oversee the maintenance of the entire fleet,” Manns told Australian Mining. “I’ve been with National Group for eight years now. I understand how the company operates, but before taking on

the superintendent position I took time to sit back and see how these things roll out, and whether the position was for me. “The position presented itself 12 months ago, and after taking time and gaining exposure to various parts of the business, I took it with both hands.” Manns said spending time as a shortterm maintenance planner helped him gain a grasp of the operational intricacies workers face on a daily basis. “Earlier in my National Group career, I figured if I can’t give people direction on how machines are supposed to be maintained, I could learn about planning,” he said. “Planning is a really important role because you get a taste of how and what the clients expect from maintenance and how mines are planned. “When you’re managing an asset fleet, your deliverance, AVs (availabilities) and KPIs all stem from your maintenance planning. The planning position saw me tasked with the maintenance

NATIONAL GROUP HAS A LARGE FLEET OF DRYHIRE ASSETS WORKING AT PEAK DOWNS.

scheduling of machines across several sites.” Manns felt it was important that he intimately understand the scope of his planning role before moving to another position. There were opportunities available for him to progress, but he never felt rushed by National Group, and was eager to bed down his skills. This provided the foundation for him

to become a superintendent – one of the most senior positions on a mine site. During his time at National Group, Manns has appreciated the journey from being a hands-on diesel mechanic to becoming a company role model. “I’ve had the opportunity to really grow my management skills,” he said. “I’ve learned that not only do you have to manage machines, but you’ve got to manage people, and if you can’t find the balance between both you won’t have much success. “I’m grateful that I did the maintenance planning role, because

A MAINTENANCE SUPERINTENDENT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE MAINTENANCE OF KEY PLANT AND MACHINERY ON A MINE SITE.

AUSTRALIANMINING 54 MAY 2025

IMAGES: NATIONAL GROUP

MATTHEW MANNS’ GROWTH JOURNEY IS JUST ONE OF THE SUCCESS STORIES AT LEADING MINING SERVICES COMPANY NATIONAL GROUP.

MINING CAREERS

NATIONAL GROUP EMPLOYEES HAVE A DIRECT LINE OF COMMUNICATION TO CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER AND COMPANY FOUNDER MARK ACKROYD.

managing such a large fleet of machines, the next step was to manage people along with that.” Manns has not only shown internal leadership but also external leadership when engaging with National Group clients. “Alongside my internal responsibilities, I’ve also had direct contact with the client, where I’m at the forefront of meeting deliverables and expectations,” he said. “National Group always aspires to go above and beyond for its clients, which has provided me and my team a good challenge to maintain, and even exceed, the desired standard.” Through growing responsibility and National Group’s continued expansion, Manns is only getting busier, something that is motivating him more than ever. “My role is getting busier, but as time passes, I’m learning and the processes are there, so it’s not as if you feel the weight of the world on you,” he said. “The support is always there as well. If I have any queries or troubles, I can always get the help I need at National Group.” For those who are eager to progress, National Group always prioritises growth opportunities. “For those who want to excel, the opportunities are always there,” he said. “Not everyone wants to be a leader, not everyone wants to have a succession plan. But if you’re up for it, the options are there. “National Group is rapidly growing, so for people who want to be leaders, whether it be in administration or on-site, the pathway is there. That’s one of the biggest drawcards about this company. “You don’t necessarily have to be boxed into one department. There’s always room to advance and we’re

always offering people the opportunity to upskill. As an evolving company, it’s really important for us to keep our people.” The way National Group is structured means employees have a direct line of communication to chief executive officer and company founder Mark Ackroyd. “For the size of National Group, you wouldn’t expect to have direct interaction with the director,” Manns said. “Mark is always available for a call, whether it be for business or general chit chat, which was another drawcard for me. Having the knowledge that the company director is always there, always involved, puts you at ease. “You don’t get that a lot. For a company of this size, you typically need to go through a chain of command.” Ackroyd prioritises building relationships with National Group employees, which in turn embeds trust throughout the company. “Mark puts a lot of trust in his people, and with that comes the respect to make the right decisions for National Group,” Manns said. “Mark was on the interview panel when I took the position at Peak Downs, which shows the commitment he has for his people. He wanted to meet me and see if I’d be a good fit for the business first-hand. “Above all, he’s just a really good people person.” When asked what his next step might be, Manns said he still has a lot to learn in his current role but is always open to new opportunities. “I’m optimistic, but I’m also a realist,” he said. “Twelve months in, I’ve still got so much to learn, especially for an evolving business, and especially the project we have at Peak Downs that’s growing very quickly.

MATTHEW MANNS IS NATIONAL GROUP’S MAINTENANCE SUPERINTENDENT AT BMA’S PEAK DOWNS COAL MINE IN QUEENSLAND.

NATIONAL GROUP IS RAPIDLY GROWING AS IT TAKES ON NEW MINING CONTRACTS ACROSS AUSTRALIA.

“When considering my future, I’m happy with what I’m doing right now but you never know where it might lead. Before I advance again though, I really want to know what I’m doing first. “It’s always been my career strategy. I started as a fitter, so I was a fitter, then I went to planning, so I was a planner. You’ve got to really sit in the seat for a few years, understand it, before you’re then ready to move to the next step.” Once he has proven himself as a superintendent, Manns said the next step could see him explore project management.

AUSTRALIANMINING 55 MAY 2025

“If National Group was to win a new contract, for example, project managing would see me go in, set up the project, and get the platform going,” he said. “You deal directly with the client as well, so there is a fair bit of responsibility involved.” First and foremost, Manns loves his job, which has enabled him to express his capabilities and skills for the betterment of National Group. And with the mining services company on a rapid growth trajectory, the sky’s the limit for Manns’ career. AM

EDUCATION

IMAGES: HASTINGS DEERING

TRAINING MINING’S NEXT GENERATION

HASTINGS DEERING OFFERS APPRENTICESHIPS IN AREAS SUCH AS AUTO ELECTRICAL, DIESEL FITTING AND MECHANICAL FITTING.

APPLICATIONS FOR HASTINGS DEERING’S 2026 APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM ARE NOW OPEN.

ince its humble beginnings over 90 years ago, Hastings Deering has grown to become one of the largest Caterpillar (Cat) dealers globally, something made possible by the company’s team of specialists. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, Hastings Deering offers an array of career opportunities across the mining, construction, energy and transport sectors. This includes a leading apprenticeship program that has been operating since 1967. Hastings Deering’s apprenticeship program offers world-class training for aspiring mobile plant technicians by providing apprentices with the opportunity to work with Cat machinery, innovative technologies, and practical job environments. “The accredited training program for mobile plant technicians has been running since 2007, offering structured learning that combines hands-on experience with formal training to develop highly skilled technicians,”

Hastings Deering apprentice and technical training advisor Jack Toua told Australian Mining. “Through Hastings Deering’s apprenticeship program, apprentices gain technical expertise in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining heavy machinery, hands-on experience with cutting-edge Cat technology, problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, workplace safety knowledge and procedures, and teamwork and leadership development.” With the world facing a shortage of mining professionals, Hastings Deering’s apprenticeship program is especially welcome. “Benefits on offer include competitive wages and structured training, exposure to real-world environments, access to experienced mentors and world-class trainers, career progression pathways beyond the apprenticeship, and opportunities for further training and specialisation in Cat machinery and systems,” Toua said. After a successful 2025 cohort, Hastings Deering is now accepting applications for its 2026 apprenticeship program. The key trade areas on offer include mobile plant technicians, auto electrical, fabrication and other technical roles essential for supporting Cat machinery. “Hastings Deering is looking for apprentices who are passionate about the mining and construction industries, are mechanically inclined with problem-

solving skills, are safety-conscious, and are team players with a strong work ethic,” Toua said.

The process

Hastings Deering’s apprenticeship program is open to a diverse range of ages and backgrounds, cementing the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. The recruitment process begins with candidates filling out an online application that details their skills and experience, answers role-specific questions, and outlines why they want to complete an apprenticeship with Hastings Deering. Applicants must also provide their resume, cover letter, and recent school results if they have left school in the last five years. Evidence of their right to work in Australia is also required. The next stage involves shortlisted applicants undergoing mechanical, numerical and verbal reasoning assessments. Those who successfully complete the aptitude testing will then be invited to attend an engagement centre held in the business centre they applied for. The engagement centre provides candidates with an opportunity to participate in interactive activities such as workshop tours, group and individual activities. An in-person interview will also take place, allowing candidates to express their personality and ask questions.

AUSTRALIANMINING 56 MAY 2025

The next stage will see successful candidates from the engagement centres and in-person interviews progress to pre-employment medical assessments, reference checks, and safety screenings. Then the successful candidates will be formally offered an apprenticeship in writing and the apprenticeship program will commence at Hastings Deering’s state-of-the-art facilities. “Hastings Deering has produced hundreds of highly skilled tradespeople who have gone on to become leading technicians, supervisors and managers within the company and the industry,” Toua said. “The program is recognised for developing industry-ready professionals, with many apprentices completing their training ahead of schedule due to their dedication and skill. “By providing top-tier training and hands-on experience, Hastings Deering is shaping the next generation of skilled technicians. “Apprentices are equipped with the skills and confidence to excel in their careers and contribute to the success of Australia’s mining and construction industries.”

Success story

Eva Neilson, a third-year apprentice from Mackay, Queensland, decided to pursue a career as a diesel fitter after completing work experience in the mining industry during high school.

EDUCATION

“When I was looking for apprenticeships, I wanted to be provided with the best learning experience on offer and Hastings Deering is known as the largest Cat dealer in Australia,” Neilson told Australian Mining. “Hastings Deering is also well known for having equipment in the mining, agricultural, civil and marine industry. This variety really caught my eye as it allowed for broad learning opportunities and opened many doors.” After commencing her apprenticeship at Hastings Deerings’ state-of-theart Brisbane training facility in 2023, Neilson has been provided with a combination of theory and practical learning to apply in the workplace. “It’s really fulfilling to be able to take what I have learnt and put it into action,” Neilson said. “Since starting the apprenticeship, I have been able to grow confident in my communication skills by working alongside many people from all different backgrounds. “I’ve also learnt about the importance of having a strong attention to detail and how such a small mistake can be detrimental to the machines.” Neilson said Hastings Deering’s apprenticeship program provides apprentices with a steady foundation to carry on throughout the rest of their careers. “Hastings Deering really puts the effort in to try and make us better tradespeople for the future,” Neilson

HASTINGS DEERING’S INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY IN ACACIA RIDGE, QUEENSLAND.

said. “Not a lot of companies put this much care into their apprentices, which is what makes them unique.” Neilson hopes to transition into a field service position in their fourth year. “I want to expand my knowledge on diagnosing and repairing faults and apply what I have learnt during my apprenticeship,” Neilson said.

“My long-term goal is to go into the engineering side of the business. Hastings Deering preaches career development and is all for providing these opportunities to their workers. “I’m hoping the skills I gain as a tradesperson will make me a better engineer to provide solutions and improvements for the future.”

THE 2025 COHORT OF HASTINGS DEERING’S APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM.

AUSTRALIANMINING 57 MAY 2025

Neilson encourages aspiring tradesman and technicians to apply for Hastings Deering’s 2026 apprenticeship program, citing its strong team culture, supportive mentors, and career advancement opportunities. “Don’t freak out about not knowing everything by the end of your apprenticeship because even the qualified tradespeople I work with learn new things every day,” Neilson said. “Make sure to ask plenty of questions as you’ll learn more from listening to experiences and advice from people who have been in the industry for a long time. If you don’t have the answers, research and keep asking questions until you do.” Toua echoed similar sentiments. “If you’re interested in a career working with world-class machinery in a supportive and professional environment, Hastings Deering is the perfect place to start,” Toua said. “The program provides the technical skills, mentorship, and real-world experience needed to succeed in the mining and construction industries. “The Hastings Deering apprenticeship program is more than just a job; it’s a launchpad for a successful career. “With access to cutting-edge technology, expert and world-class trainers, and strong career pathways, apprentices graduate with the skills and knowledge to make a lasting impact in the industry.” AM

WELLBEING AND SAFETY

U L

ELECTRONIC ACCESS SOLUTIONS TO PROTECT MINERS THE MINING SECTOR INHERENTLY CREATES DISTINCTIVE CHALLENGES TO WORKER SAFETY THAT REQUIRE GREATER SECURITY MEASURES. can help address those challenges, enhance staff experience and welfare, while also driving operational efficiency.

What is electronic access?

Electronic access solutions use a keycard, fob or mobile phone as the user’s ‘credential’, instead of a key. The credential is programmed specifically for each worker, providing easy access to the areas – and only the areas – for which they are authorised. A complete electronic access system helps manage staff experience as well as site operations.

Staff safety

When staff are on site, they need to feel that they are as safe as they

would be in their own home, without feeling imprisoned. With electronic access solutions, every worker can be sure they are the only person that can access their room. If they lose their keycard, it can be instantly cancelled, and a new one issued, making it far safer than a physical key. Electronic locker access means staff can safely leave items on site, knowing their belongings will be secure until they return. With electronic access, mining companies can create single-sex areas, such as toilets and bathrooms. Facilities such as laundries and sports areas can also be switched to female-only access at certain times of the day.

Improving the journey

IMAGE: SALTO

Every time a flight lands, hundreds of workers will arrive on site and be keen to get to their room, or even get straight to work. With that number of people all arriving together, check in and allocation of keys can cause long delays and staff frustration. With electronic access, the user keeps their credential, and it is simply reprogrammed to remove and reinstate access each time they arrive and leave. Integration with transport booking systems means that the system knows when the worker is due and can automatically reprogram their key at the switchover time, and even flag a non-arrival alert if they do not access their room. Newly arrived workers, armed with their credential, can go straight to their

PRIORITISE DUTY OF CARE THROUGH SALTO SPACE – AN ACCESS SOLUTION ALREADY PROVEN IN REMOTE OPERATIONS ACROSS AUSTRALIA.

room, significantly improving their journey experience.

Audit and analytics

THE BEST ACCESS SOLUTION COVERS A WHOLE SITE AND INTEGRATES WITH BOOKING, BUILDING AND OTHER EXISTING SYSTEMS.

AUSTRALIANMINING 58 MAY 2025

Ev m o in M st pr o

Electronic access solutions provide invaluable insights through the data they capture, helping companies to enhance staff experience and improve site management. For example, the audit trail shows if someone has tried to access an area for which they are not authorised – meaning the company can take the appropriate action. Adrian Taber, workforce accommodation lead for access solutions provider Salto, explained how the data capture can be used to benefit operations, “The system can help to optimise resources,” Taber said. “For example, by identifying if rooms are not being fully utilised, the system shows that there is scope to bring more workers onto site. “Or in meal areas, turnstiles with electronic access can show if any workers are entering more than once each mealtime.” If the mining company uses a facilities management company to manage the work site, the electronic access solution data can help them to evaluate the FM provider’s performance – for example, checking that each room is being accessed by the cleaners every day – to ensure maximum efficiency. Electronic security solutions can be a vital tool to provide the safety and experience that will attract and retain great staff, while also creating greater operational efficiency. AM

Y Im

IMAGE: PHILTHY PHIL/STOCK.ADOBE.COM

very company wants to prioritise the wellbeing of their employees, but the mining sector creates unique challenges for such a cause. Mining companies frequently transport large numbers of people in and out of remote locations, operating mining camps that include accommodation, meals and leisure facilities. Much of the mining workforce is fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) and there is a changing demographic, with increasing numbers of female workers entering what has traditionally been a predominantly male environment. In this article, Australian Mining explores how electronic access solutions

Unearth a New Level of Efficiency Every minute and resource counts in mining. Minitab helps you optimise operations by turning complex data into clear, actionable insights. See how Minitab helps you identify inefficiencies, streamline processes, and improve productivity across every aspect of your operation. You have data. We have solutions. Imagine the possibilities. www.minitab.com

Talk to Minitab

INNOVATION

THE MASTER OF RAISE BORE DRILLING MASTER DRILLING AUSTRALIA PROVIDES TURN-KEY RAISE BORE SOLUTIONS THAT MEET THE EVER-EVOLVING DEMANDS OF THE AUSTRALIAN MINING INDUSTRY. Utilising a collaborative and tailored approach, Master Drilling engages with the client early to understand their specific project requirements, challenges and objectives. “Through geotechnical analysis and engineering expertise, we assess ground conditions, identify risks, and develop a customised strategy,” Master Drilling general manager – Australasia Joshua Sugden told Australian Mining. “Once planning is complete, we transition into the development phase, integrating our raise bore services with add-ons such as ground consolidation and support. Throughout the project, we maintain open communication and continuous collaboration, adapting our approach as needed to ensure smooth execution.” Master Drilling Australia has taken its raise boring capabilities to the next level to meet the evolving needs of the mining, energy and infrastructure

industries, offering services such as reverse circulation blind boring, blind sinking and tunnelling. Master Drilling also uses its geotechnical analysis expertise to identify ground conditions early, enhancing decision-making, reducing risks, and optimising project design. “As development progresses, our ground consolidation services, including shotcreting, pressure grouting, paste holes, and piling, provide essential structural support, ensuring stability and longevity,” Sugden said. “By integrating these services into a single turn-key package, we help clients reduce coordination complexity, improve project timelines, and lower costs, delivering seamless, efficient, and safer underground solutions from start to finish.” Master Drilling also provides LiDAR (light detection and ranging) scanning for high-precision underground

mapping, allowing for accurate assessments and planning. “Our directional drilling services offer greater control over borehole placement, optimising mine design, while our material handling solutions ensure efficient transport and management of excavated material,” Sugden said. Select drilling companies only focus on the raise bore aspect of a project, resulting in clients having to coordinate multiple contractors for different stages. This can lead to project delays and increased costs. Where Master Drilling stands out is its ability to conduct as many services as possible, ensuring other additional project requirements are met to deliver a fully integrated outcome. This commitment was demonstrated when a client faced a 30m weathered zone, methane gas risks, and water ingress, all of which threatened the stability and safety of excavation.

IMAGES: MASTER DRILLING

nown as a safer alternative to explosives, raise bore drilling is essential for a variety of mining applications, including mine ventilation, wastewater routing, hydroelectric pressure shafts, and ore transfer. While raise boring offers benefits such as enhanced safety, increased drilling precision and reduced surface disruption, it requires skilled operators and powerful drill rigs to ensure smooth implementation. Enter Master Drilling, a South African company that has grown to become one of the largest rock boring and drilling companies globally. Supported by 37 years of experience, a presence in over 23 countries and a fleet of more than 150 in-house rigs, Master Drilling hit Australian shores in June 2020 and has since delivered raise bore projects for several Tier 1 miners.

MASTER DRILLING OFFERS A COMPREHENSIVE RANGE OF SHOTCRETE SYSTEMS, EACH DESIGNED FOR EFFICIENCY, SAFETY, AND ADAPTABILITY IN THE TOUGHEST CONDITIONS.

AUSTRALIANMINING 60 MAY 2025

INNOVATION

REMOTE DRILLING IS AN IDEAL SOLUTION FOR CHALLENGING PROJECTS.

“Instead of just completing the raise bore, Master Drilling conducted a detailed geotechnical analysis, engineered piling and an integrated collar cap for structural support,” Sugden said. “We also implemented live gas monitoring systems to manage methane levels throughout excavation. Additionally, we installed a hydrostatic steel liner to reinforce the shaft. “The feedback from the client was extremely positive. They highlighted our proactive problem-solving, particularly in addressing challenging ground conditions, methane risks, and water ingress. “The client was especially impressed with how our geotechnical analysis and

structural solutions ensured the longterm stability of the shaft. They also appreciated our commitment to safety, noting that our live gas monitoring system provided continuous risk management, allowing the project to progress smoothly and without incident.” Alongside its expansive raise boring offerings, Master Drilling is continuing to roll out its remote drilling capabilities across the globe. “By integrating cutting-edge technology with our proven expertise, we aim to deliver even more precise, cost-effective, and highperformance solutions for the mining, energy and infrastructure sectors,” Sugden said. AM

Safer site, smoother stay > Salto access puts workers first. Streamline workforce accommodation operations with the always-online Salto Space access solution. Proven in multiple remote operations across Australia. LEARN MORE > info.oceania@saltosystems.com > saltosystems.com.au > (03) 8683 9782

AUSTRALIANMINING 61 MAY 2025

MASTER DRILLING DESIGNS HYDROSTATIC STEEL LINERS TO PROVIDE NECESSARY REINFORCEMENT FOR DRILLING SHAFTS.

MAINTENANCE

COUNTING THE COST

he risk of using counterfeit or non-genuine parts in a high horsepower (hp) diesel engine recently hit home at a mining operation in Western Australia. It was revealed that a Cummins K50 – a 50-litre V16 renowned for its reliability and durability – failed at only 6000 hours powering an excavator. It would have been expected to clock up to 16,000 hours after midlife maintenance at 8000 hours. Teardown of the 1800hp engine showed destruction inside one cylinder. The reason was obvious: counterfeit parts, including the cylinder liners, had been used by a third-party repairer to rebuild the K50. The downfall of using an unauthorised Cummins repairer to cut costs was clear to the customer.

“At the end of the day you get what you pay for with quality products,” Cummins aftermarket business development manager – mining Kyle Miller said. “If you want to take risks to save a few dollars, you are likely to incur greater losses in business impact through downtime or performance issues.”

The latest testing

A Cummins engineering team has carried out extensive testing of 106 non-genuine QSK engine parts from a recognised supplier. These parts were put through the same rigorous test procedures Cummins uses to manufacture genuine Cummins parts. Many failed on visual inspection, some failed because the metal was too soft or brittle, and other parts also failed for different reasons.

IMAGES: CUMMINS

NON-GENUINE PARTS CAN WREAK HAVOC ON MINE SITES. CUMMINS DETAILS HOW CUSTOMERS CAN SPOT A FAKE.

COUNTERFEIT GOODS ARE ESTIMATED TO BE A $US500 BILLION-PER-YEAR INDUSTRY GLOBALLY.

Part categories tested were piston, piston pin, piston rings, cylinder liner, valves, bearings, thrust bearing, and exhaust manifold gasket. Testing included multiple parts-per-component categories. Test results confirmed every part category failed in measurement or material inspection compared to Cummins standards.

CUMMINS’ LATEST GLOBAL INITIATIVE IS THE USE OF HOLOGRAMS TO SUPPORT ANTI-COUNTERFEITING EFFORTS.

AUSTRALIANMINING 62 MAY 2025

One example of the difference is connecting rod bushings. For QSK45 and QSK60 engines, Cummins only sells bushings with the connecting rod to ensure quality, durability and a precise fit. Competitors sell the parts separately, ignoring Cummins engineering requirements. “Cummins high horsepower genuine parts sourced from the extensive network

MAINTENANCE

of Cummins branches in Australia and New Zealand are the only parts approved and warranted by Cummins,” Miller said. Miller pointed out that counterfeit parts are increasingly being sold as genuine Cummins parts worldwide. Due to the magnitude of the problem in Australia, Cummins has engaged the Australian Border Force (ABF) to help identify and stop shipments of counterfeit parts entering the country. Sophisticated reproductions of original parts have made it incredibly hard for even the trained eye to distinguish real from fake. These illegal imitations of engine components, oils and lubricants manufactured from inferior materials can lead to serious safety and product issues. Even counterfeit labelling, packaging, barcodes and QR codes look like the original, with many consumers misled into thinking they are buying the genuine product. To put the cost into perspective, counterfeit goods are estimated to be a $US500 billion-per-year global industry. Cummins’ engagement with the ABF has involved training workshops being held for ABF personnel in Perth, Darwin, Sydney and Brisbane. The intellectual property (IP) training saw over 300 ABF officers familiarise themselves with the Cummins brand, including engines, generators, Holset

ENGINES USING GENUINE CUMMINS PARTS CAN EXPECT A LONG LIFE.

turbochargers, Stamford alternators and PGXL coolants.

Holograms

Cummins’ latest global initiative is the use of holograms to support anti-

counterfeiting efforts. The development of holograms, the effects of which cannot be completely replicated or simulated by normal reprographics methods, has introduced a new level of brand protection.

FT2650

FT3055

MOBILE JAW CRUSHER

•Up to 25% more capacity

•Production rates up to 400TPH

To differentiate from counterfeit products, Cummins’ new labels feature a Cummins-specific hologram as well as a verification website. Customers can scan a QR code on the label to reach the site. AM

MOBILE JAW CRUSHER

HEAVY DUTY CRUSHING POWER

•Production rates up to 700TPH

•50” x 18” pan feeder

•Optional hydraulic

•23.6” tracks with

•Aggregate & recycling

•Largest crushing

dual drive

relief

stroke in class

applications

in australia NOW available for immediate purchase

AUSTRALIANMINING 63 MAY 2025

1300 278 322

enquiries.australia@astecindustries.com astecindustries.com

IRON ORE

THE RISING STARS OF IRON ORE MAJOR IRON ORE PROJECTS ARE STARTING TO EXPAND OUTSIDE OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA, BUT DO THEY HAVE THE POTENTIAL TO SHAKE THINGS UP IN THE SECTOR?

ustralia’s iron ore sector has traditionally been dominated by Western Australia, but emerging projects and investments across the country are challenging the status quo. New developments in South Australia, New South Wales, Tasmania and Queensland are diversifying Australia’s mining portfolio, boosting its competitive edge in the global market and advancing the transition to green iron production.

South Australia

IMAGE: KING ROPES ACCESS/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

The Razorback iron ore project, located in South Australia’s Braemar iron province, is a significant development managed by Magnetite Mines. The site, located 240km north-east of Adelaide, is configured to produce five million tonnes of premium-grade magnetite concentrates suitable for green iron production per year. Its strategic location provides access to existing infrastructure, including railways and ports, ensuring efficient export routes to international markets. Magnetite Mines is also leading efforts to position SA as a major green iron supplier. Through the Green Iron SA consortium, the company is

collaborating with industry partners to harness magnetite resources and renewable energy for low-emission steel production. The company formally lodged a mining lease proposal (MLP) with the South Australian Department for Energy and Mining (DEM) for Razorback in March. “We are delighted to have reached this critical milestone for Razorback, setting in motion the development pathway for our flagship project,” Magnetite Mines managing director Tim Dobson said. “Our team and consulting partners have completed a comprehensive and high-quality MLP submission commensurate with the largescale, long-life aspects of our future Razorback mine. “Razorback’s development timing is well positioned to coincide with both the emerging international demand for premium-grade iron ore concentrates and the green iron industry ambitions of state and federal governments, recently underlined by a federal billion-dollar Green Iron Fund announcement.” Another key SA magnetite project is Lincoln Minerals’ Green Iron initiative, which aims to produce up to three million tonnes (Mt) of high-quality iron ore concentrate annually.

Using hydrogen and the region’s abundant renewable energy, Lincoln Minerals is positioning itself as a leader in green iron production, supporting the decarbonisation of the global steel industry. Lincoln Minerals applied to the SA Government’s Green Iron and Steel Strategy in September 2024, which concerns SA’s ambition to facilitate a new hydrogen-based green iron plant by 2030. Categorising the Green Iron project as a “core component” of the Green Iron and Steel Strategy, Lincoln believes the project can help meet the growing demand for green steel, underpinned by a 1.1-billion-tonne magnetite resource consisting of a head grade of 25.7 per cent iron. Green Iron’s orebodies are open along strike, indicating potential resource upside and low geotechnical risk. “Lincoln’s Green Iron project is underpinned by our magnetite project, which we understand is the best potential magnetite supply source for the South Australian Government’s proposed domestic green iron and steel supply chain,” Lincoln Minerals chief executive officer Jonathon Trewartha said. “Based upon a review of current data, the project has an

WITH THE DEMAND FOR GREEN IRON RISING, WHO IS BEST POSITIONED TO TAKE ADVANTAGE? AUSTRALIANMINING 64 MAY 2025

aspirational goal of producing six million tonnes per annum of highquality magnetite concentrate to supply both a domestic supply chain as well as potential for export tonnes to the global green steel industry.” Another SA player is Iron Road, a company progressing its Central Eyre iron project (CEIP), which boasts a JORC-compliant resource of 4.5 billion tonnes. CEIP is designed to produce a high-grade 67 per cent iron ore concentrate, positioning it as a premium iron ore supplier. Iron Road is also developing the Cape Hardy Port, a multi-user, multi-commodity deep-water port to support the project and other regional mining developments.

New South Wales

Led by the Hawsons Iron project near Broken Hill, New South Wales is emerging as an iron ore jurisdiction. Hawsons Iron believes its mine will supply one of the world’s highest-grade iron ore concentrate products once operational. The company has signed non-binding offtake agreements for more than 60 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) of concentrate, demonstrating strong global interest.

IRON ORE

Tasmania

Tasmania’s Savage River iron ore mine, managed by Grange Resources, remains one of Australia’s premier magnetite operations. In operation since 1967, the mine is known for producing high-quality magnetite concentrate and iron ore pellets used in steelmaking. Despite challenges such as wall instability at the south end of its centre pit, Savage River delivered strong results in late 2024. The mine produced 683,117 tonnes of concentrate and 598,303 tonnes of pellets during the December quarter. The operation benefited from higherthan-expected high-grade ore from Centre Pit, boosting its weight recovery rate to 41.1 per cent. Grange Resources continues to invest in mine optimisation and expansion initiatives to maintain stable production levels and support global iron ore supply.

Queensland

The Sunshine State is making strides in the green iron revolution, with Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners and

Central Queensland Metals (CQM) developing a major project in Gladstone. The Gladstone green iron project will leverage the Eulogie resource, a vanadiferous titanomagnetite ore deposit containing 465Mt of ore, with significant potential for expansion. The initiative represents a $3.5 billion capital investment and will establish an integrated supply chain from exploration and mining to ore concentration and green iron production. The project plans to use hydrogen from the Central Queensland hydrogen project (CQ-H2) for green iron conversion, further advancing Australia’s net-zero ambitions. “Gladstone has all the fundamentals needed for a world-class green iron project with many compelling cost advantages, including what looks to be a world-class ore deposit,” Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners cofounder and managing partner David Scaysbrook said. “These are the exact fundamentals that hopeful green steel producers need and are scouring the planet for – and we have them right here in Gladstone.” The development phase will span several years, with planning approvals currently underway and strong global interest from industry partners.

been identified by the NT Government as a strategic mineral project. But it was stalled in 2014 when Sherwin Iron failed to secure a $10 million loan needed to advance the operation. In 2012, the company submitted a proposal to the Northern Territory Environmental Protection Authority, highlighting the Roper River iron ore project, which includes the Sherwin Creek and Hodgson Downs area as a significant resource with a longprojected mine life. The Sherwin Creek area is estimated to contain 320Mt of ore at 40.1 per cent iron, while the Hodgson Downs area holds 107Mt at 47 per cent iron. These deposits consist of large, low-grade hematite-goethite resources,

with exploration results suggesting the potential for further extensions.

Australia’s future in iron ore

While the west is set to remain the dominant force in Australia’s iron ore industry, emerging projects in other states are diversifying supply, creating regional economic opportunities and driving investment in green iron production. With strong demand for highgrade, low-emission iron ore, Australia is well-positioned to support global steel decarbonisation efforts. As these projects progress, they are set to strengthen the country’s status as a critical supplier of premium iron ore, ensuring long-term sustainability in an evolving global market. AM

MAGNETITE MINES IS ON-TRACK TO BEGIN MINING AT ITS FLAGSHIP RAZORBACK IRON ORE PROJECT IN SA.

Northern Territory

The Sherwin iron project in the Northern Territory could be revived as a potential supplier of high-grade direct shipping ore, offering a new iron ore export stream from Australia’s north. The project has estimated resources exceeding 100 million tonnes and has

AUSTRALIANMINING 65 MAY 2025

IMAGE: MAGNETITE MINES

“Hawsons’ product will demand a price premium despite iron ore spot pricing fluctuations as it satisfies increasing global demand for premium, low-impurity feedstock that enables steel makers to reduce carbon dioxide emissions,” the company said. “The current list of 18 potential off-takers, predominantly targeting Asia and the Middle East, includes 12 steel mill operators and six commodity trading houses.”

COMMUNITY

FOSTERING MEANINGFUL PARTNERSHIPS

IMAGE: WOOLLAHRA GROUP

Symbolising this commitment is Westgold’s supply agreement with Woollahra Group, a 100-per-centIndigenous-owned cleaning products distributor based in Perth. Woollahra specialises in servicing the mining and facilities maintenance sectors, particularly through Surekleen, its cleaning products manufacturing arm. “Together, we offer a comprehensive range of industrial-grade cleaning products, laundry powders, degreasers, disinfectants and sustainable alternatives, including our return plastic and soap recycling programs,” Woollahra managing director Chris Schmid told Australian Mining. The agreement concerns the supply of cleaning degreaser solutions for use at every Westgold-owned underground asset, including Big Bell, Bluebird, Starlight and Fender in the Murchison,

THE WOOLLAHRA GROUP IS A 100-PERCENT-INDIGENOUS-OWNED CLEANING PRODUCTS DISTRIBUTOR.

L–R: BAYANI “HERO” LANUZA AND EDMORE MTONGA, BOTH MEMBERS OF WESTGOLD’S MAINTENANCE TEAM.

Beta Hunt in the southern Goldfields, and Two Boys at Higginsville. “Our products are not only manufactured to deliver highperformance results but are also backed by our sustainability initiatives, such as being 100 per cent biodegradable,” Schmid said. “What truly sets us apart is our ability to combine performance, purpose and partnership. We manufacture and supply high-quality

THE WOOLLAHRA HQ WAREHOUSE IN MALAGA, WA.

AUSTRALIANMINING 66 MAY 2025

products while actively driving Indigenous employment, sustainability and community investment.” Bramwell noted the competitive price point of Surekleen products. “They are also helping us reduce our environmental impact and recycle what would otherwise be waste,” Bramwell said. “To us that’s win–win–win. For Surekleen, for Westgold, and for the planet.”

IMAGE: WOOLLAHRA GROUP

n recent years, several Australian miners have worked to ensure that the Traditional Owners of the lands in which they operate have a voice during key decisionmaking processes. One of these companies is Westgold Resources, a gold miner with operations across the Southern Goldfields and Murchison regions of Western Australia. “Our business practices are designed to foster strong and respectful partnerships, acknowledging the Traditional Ownership of the lands we operate on,” Westgold managing director and chief executive officer Wayne Bramwell told Australian Mining. “We are equally committed to increasing economic participation for Indigenous Australians, through employment and training opportunities and purchasing from Indigenous suppliers.”

IMAGE: WESTGOLD RESOURCES

A SUPPLY AGREEMENT BETWEEN WESTGOLD RESOURCES AND WOOLLAHRA GROUP HAS BOLSTERED INDIGENOUS EMPOWERMENT IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA.

The partnership marks the first time an Australian underground miner has signed a supply agreement with Woollahra for Surekleen products, representing a groundbreaking step forward in showcasing Westgold’s commitment to Aboriginal procurement policies and dedication to supporting local Indigenous businesses. “This partnership with Westgold is a milestone not just for Woollahra and Surekleen, but for Indigenous business in Australia,” Schmid said. “It signifies the growing recognition of Aboriginal-owned enterprises as credible, capable and competitive players in the industrial supply chain. It also reflects Westgold’s strong commitment to economic inclusion and supporting genuine Indigenous partnerships.” Since the agreement was signed in mid-2024, the partnership between Westgold and Woollahra has really hit its stride. “The relationship has been extremely positive and collaborative,” Schmid said. “Westgold has shown a genuine interest in aligning with our values, and the communication and operational rollout have been seamless. We’ve felt supported, respected and valued as a long-term partner – something that means a great deal for an Aboriginalowned business like ours.” Schmid said he views the partnership between Westgold and

IMAGE: WESTGOLD RESOURCES

COMMUNITY

WESTGOLD CURRENTLY OWNS SIX UNDERGROUND MINES IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA.

Woollahra as the beginning of a longterm, impactful relationship. “Beyond supply, we’re already discussing how we can expand our product offering and even collaborate on community-focused initiatives across WA,” he said. “There’s real potential to expand and create something for both business and community.

“We’d just like to thank Westgold for being bold, values-driven and committed to supporting Indigenous-led businesses. This partnership shows what’s possible when business meets purpose, and we hope it inspires more organisations to engage with Aboriginal suppliers in meaningful ways.” Beyond its growing partnership with Westgold, Woollahra is using

RARE HIGH VOLUME COMPRESSOR PACKAGE – LOW HOURS EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST FOR COMPLETE PURCHASE 1 x 350kw IR Compressor 2100 CFM 10 Bar Less than 800 loaded run hours 1 x Jemaco 5000 cfm dryer and watercooled condenser 1 x Weatherproof switchboard Contactors and Isolators for Compressor & Dryer 1 x 200mm Pre & After filter Auto drain Galvanised stand 1 x 2020 Martinson 10,000L 1100 WP Air Receiver Safety Valve Guage Auto drain

Phone Airquip: (08) 8398 5111 Email: team@airquippipetool.com.au

AUSTRALIANMINING 67 MAY 2025

2025 to expand Surekleen product lines and its Indigenous trainee and internship programs. “We’re also pursuing similar partnerships across mining and government sectors,” Schmid said. “There are a number of discussions in progress, and we’re excited about continuing to scale both our impact and our reach.” AM

INDUSTRY EVENTS

A QUANTUM LEAP IN TECH

IMAGES: AUSTMINE

AUSTRALIAN MINING SPOTLIGHTS TWO SPEAKERS SET TO PRESENT AT THE GLOBAL RESOURCES INNOVATION EXPO 2025.

GRX25 WILL EXPLORE HOW AUSTRALIA CAN BECOME A LEADER IN MINING TECHNOLOGY INVESTMENT AND INNOVATION.

roudly hosted by Austmine in partnership with AusIMM, the Global Resources Innovation Expo 2025 (GRX25) is set to be bigger and better than ever. An expo “by industry, for industry”, GRX25 will bring together forwardthinking leaders in mining, technology, and investment. Set to be held in Brisbane from May 20–22, GRX25 is

about ‘embracing a new era’, a theme that encompasses the mining industry’s need to embrace change and evolve with the times. This theme will be woven throughout the GRX25 program, which will see speakers from around the world foster a future-focused dialogue. Three collaborative conversation sessions will take place on May 21, one of which is titled ‘Making a mining tech market’. This breakout stream will explore how the Australia mining industry can position itself as the leading global hub for technology investment. Australian Mining spoke to two ‘Making a mining tech market’ speakers about what attendees can expect from the session.

Charles Gillies

RCF INNOVATION MANAGING DIRECTOR CHARLES GILLIES.

Jolimont, the funds management company, and Jolimont Global Mining Systems, the mining investment fund, were both founded in 2013. After much success, Jolimont became part of Resource Capital Funds (RCF) in 2017. A new fund, RCF Innovation Fund II, was created to invest in

innovation companies aiming to reduce costs and increase productivity and safety for miners. “We’ve seen over 1300 innovation deals across the globe,” RCF Innovation managing director Charles Gillies told Australian Mining. “We’ve been very active in the mining innovation space throughout the last decade.” As the global energy transition continues, the demand for critical minerals will increase. As a result, mining companies are pushing to scale up their operations. “However, as volumes increase, orebodies get deeper, costs get higher and the social license to operate gets harder,” Gillies said. “Our view is these problems can only be solved by innovation in the mining industry.” While recent mining innovation has come from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), not all innovation requires a huge balance sheet. It is this potential that will be the centre of Gillies’ presentation at GRX25. “Like in other industrial sectors, smaller companies are often good at

AUSTRALIANMINING 68 MAY 2025

finding value-creation opportunities from larger miners,” Gillies said. “At the same time, intelligent managers, engineers and entrepreneurs see the opportunities in building, growing and selling companies in the mining sector.” Gillies said understanding the industry’s challenges and technological opportunities is key. “You need to go to the industry with a solution that solves a particular problem,” Gillies said. “The second part is understanding what it takes to commercialise a product, as the mining industry is a highly rational market and there are many things you need to know to successfully sell to them.” A recent example of this is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and how it can increase productivity and safety personnel. “Miners operate in harsh, difficult environments and are often in very remote locations,” Gillies said. “The more you can remove humans from mines and replace them with robots or remote operations, the better. It’s good for safety and makes

INDUSTRY EVENTS

IMAGE: FLEET SPACE TECHNOLOGIES

Flavia Tata Nardini

FLEET SPACE TECHNOLOGIES CO-FOUNDER AND CEO FLAVIA TATA NARDINI.

it easy for mining companies to deploy resources and machinery to where they need to be. “The other area of focus is blending hardware and software to create new value opportunities, as well as reducing costs associated with sensors, network rollouts, and computer power. “General improvements in technology and cost reduction in hardtechnology items are creating plenty of opportunities for miners. It’s an industry unlike any other.”

Mining companies are always looking for new ways to enhance exploration to uncover minerals faster. And that is exactly what Fleet Space Technologies is doing. Founded by former European Space Agency propulsion engineer Flavia Tata Nardini and aerospace entrepreneur Matt Pearson in 2015, Fleet Space Technologies has pioneered satelliteenabled exploration solutions for the mining industry. “While I didn’t start in mining, I’ve spent years working closely with the industry, learning about its challenges, and seeing firsthand how advanced seismic technology, AI, and real-time data can drive a stepchange in exploration,” Nardini told Australian Mining. It is these technological opportunities that will be the heart of Nardini’s presentation at GRX25. “To fuel breakthrough discoveries, we must shift to high-quality, realtime data collection optimised for AI,” she said. “The faster we can integrate AIdriven insights, the faster we can unlock the minerals that will power the future.” While the mining industry has advanced and embraced innovation in automation, AI technology, and data

analytics, the pace of discovery has slowed due to the lack of volume and quality of data required to maximise modern AI systems. “In many cases, teams rely on handwritten core logs going back decades and fragmented datasets that aren’t processable by the most advanced machine learning algorithms,” Nardini said. “AI is only as good as the data it’s fed. By making seismic tools real-time and integrating multiple geophysical techniques, we can narrow search spaces faster, reduce environmental impact, and drive a paradigm shift in exploration efficiency. “Consider this: each autonomous vehicle generates 1500 terabytes (TB) of data per year, allowing AI to refine and improve decision-making exponentially. In contrast, a single mine produces just 150TB annually, with much of that data underutilised or unusable. “The future of exploration lies in scaling data collection and feeding AI models that can radically accelerate discovery.” Increasing mineral discovery in Australia is key to fuelling futurefacing technologies. To get there, Nardini said, METS companies must invest in real-time, AIready exploration solutions.

BY EMBRACING INNOVATION TODAY, WE ENSURE A FUTURE WHERE CRITICAL MINERALS ARE DISCOVERED FASTER, DRILLING IS OPTIMISED, AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT IS MINIMISED.”

THE ‘MAKING A MINING TECH MARKET’ SESSION WILL BE ONE OF THREE COLLABORATIVE CONVERSATIONS AT GRX25.

AUSTRALIANMINING 69 MAY 2025

“The next leap forward isn’t just about finding more minerals – it’s about drastically improving discovery efficiency,” she said. “If we scale our ability to acquire and process data by orders of magnitude, we unlock the resources needed for everything from EV (electric vehicle) batteries to space exploration. This is Australia’s opportunity to lead.” With autonomous vehicles and space exploration having already embraced high-frequency and highquality data acquisition, Nardini views this as the predecessor for mineral exploration. “Mineral exploration is evolving from a resource-extraction business into the world’s greatest data intelligence opportunity,” Nardini said. “By embracing innovation today, we ensure a future where critical minerals are discovered faster, drilling is optimised, and environmental impact is minimised – fuelling the next leap forward for civilisation.” GRX25 will be held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from May 20–22. AM The ‘Making a mining tech market’ collaborative conversation session will be held on May 21 from 2.00pm to 3:30pm in meeting room M4.

THE NEXT GENERATION OF MINING ASIA-PACIFIC’S INTERNATIONAL MINING EXHIBITION 23-25 SEPTEMBER 2025 Adelaide Showground, South Australia

INDUSTRY EVENTS

GRX25’S PIONEERING STUDENT PROGRAM GRX25 IS THE NEW INDUSTRY-LED CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION TAKING PLACE IN BRISBANE FROM MAY 20–22.

THE GRX25 UNIVERSITY CAREER OPEN DAY IS DESIGNED FOR STUDENTS LOOKING TO UNLOCK OPPORTUNITIES TO VARIOUS METS CAREER PATHWAYS.

BMA Future Leaders Program

BMA Future Leaders Program attendees will receive full access to GRX25 including key sessions, networking events, guided exhibition tour, career workshops and much more. Austmine strategic development director Marianne Cummings is excited about the opportunities made possible through BMA’s support for the program, giving students exposure

to Australia’s top mining and resources companies and leaders. “The BMA Future Leaders Program is sponsoring 20 university students to receive a full three-day delegate passes to the conference,” Cummings told Australian Mining. “We’ll match them with people at networking events to build their professional networking skills and industry connections, do facilitated walks of the exhibition area, and help them engage with exhibitors so they can learn about the new technologies.”

GRX25 is striving to present new and brave ideas and technologies, and grow partnerships to drive the industry forward, while not underestimating the major role students play in shaping a more sustainable and innovative Australian mining sector. “The future of the industry is in the hands of the students coming through, and from what I’ve seen of those students, we’re in very good hands,” Cummings said. “It’s about embracing a new era, because they’ll be the ones (to do it). We can look at what’s going and understand how we need to make mining better and more sustainable. “Students will ultimately be those who implement and take those ideas forward.” AM GRX25 will be held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from May 20–22. For more information, visit grx.au

University Career Open Day

As part of the GRX25 Student Program, a University Career Open Day will be held on day two (May 21) of the conference, presenting university students with another ‘gateway to the mining and METS sector’. The free program aims to educate students on future career options while unlocking connections to potential mentors, employer and expert opportunities through industry-led collaboration sessions. “There’s a speed networking event that will see experienced people sit with students so they can learn and understand various METS career pathways,” Cummings said.

THE WOMEN IN STEM NETWORKING BREAKFAST WILL OFFER NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES TO WOMEN AT ALL CAREER STAGES.

Women in STEM Networking Breakfast

BMA will also sponsor the Women in STEM Networking Breakfast at GRX25, which is set to unlock myriad discussions and networking opportunities for women at all career stages.

THE GRX25 BMA FUTURE LEADERS PROGRAM WILL TAKE PLACE ACROSS THE THREE DAYS OF THE CONFERENCE.

AUSTRALIANMINING 71 MAY 2025

IMAGES: GRX

ustmine and AusIMM have joined forces to host the 2025 Global Resources Innovation Expo (GRX25), which will provide attendees the opportunity to hear from global thought leaders, network with industry trailblazers, and explore emerging trends and breakthrough innovations. One of the exciting initiatives set to take place is the GRX25 Student Program, which will bridge the gap between academia and industry by giving university students real-world context for their studies. Taking place across the three-day event, the GRX25 Student Program welcomes aspiring geologists, engineers, scientists and data analysts to uncover career pathways in the resources and mining equipment, technology and services (METS) industries. The two main streams available to students are the BMA Future Leaders Program and the University Career Open Day, which will expand their industry knowledge and connections while also opening the door to a diverse range of career opportunities.

The unique industry opportunity has been created to grow, empower and connect women in resources. The breakfast will feature a keynote presentation by Marita Cheng, awardwinning innovator, women in STEM advocate, and former Australian of the Year, plus a panel discussion. According to Cummings, surveys have found the METS industry struggles to recruit and retain women. In response, the Women in STEM Networking Breakfast will help to understand how the mining and METS industry can appeal to more women. “The METS industry is still very much underrepresented by women,” Cummings said. “Studies show women believe they can’t progress in their careers because they can’t attend networking events, and they don’t have enough role models. “This breakfast is about trying to cover both. It’s a casual networking event where there’s no pressure. It’s standing up and eating breakfast.”

INDUSTRY EVENTS

THE PNG EXPO IS BACK AND BIGGER THAN EVER IN 2025.

IMAGES: PRIME CREATIVE MEDIA

AN EVENT LIKE NO OTHER THE 2025 PNG EXPO IS FAST APPROACHING, AND SILVER SPONSOR BIZPRINT IS LOOKING FORWARD TO GETTING INVOLVED.

resh off its successful participation in the 2024 PNG Industrial and Mining Resources Exhibition and Conference (PNG Expo), BizPrint is proud to be returning as a silver sponsor for the 2025 edition from July 2–3. BizPrint executive general manager Bryan Wareing said the business is thrilled to reconnect with key industries in Papua New Guinea (PNG) through the upcoming expo. “Last year’s PNG Expo was a huge success for BizPrint,” Wareing said. “We gained valuable brand exposure, forged new partnerships, and had great conversations with businesses across multiple sectors. “BizPrint is more than just a printing company – we go beyond print. We collaborate with our customers to help them build and grow their brands. From business stationery to promotional merchandise, signage and commercial scanning solutions, we offer the tools to support business success.” Returning to the expo in 2025 aligns with BizPrint’s commitment to supporting local businesses and driving industry collaboration. “This event is an ideal platform for us to connect with existing clients and introduce ourselves to potential customers who may not know the full extent of what we offer,” Wareing said. The 2025 PNG Expo builds on the momentum of 2024’s well-received

event. With a dynamic exhibition floor, a curated speaker program, and high-level networking events, it offers delegates a unique opportunity to do business in Port Moresby’s thriving commercial landscape. Delegates can kick things off with welcome drinks on the eve of the expo a highlight of last year’s festivities. Prime Creative Media general manager of events Siobhan Rocks said the 2024 welcome evening set the tone for meaningful engagement. “The welcome drinks were an amazing opportunity for the exhibitors to come together in a relaxing environment beside the pool at the Stanley Hotel, with great food and great music before the real business started,” she said. “The location, the staff, the food, the music – all of it comes together to really set the scene for what will be an amazing few days.” Wareing said BizPrint was particularly pleased with the quality of interactions at last year’s expo. “It was a chance to have in-depth discussions with business owners, marketing professionals and decisionmakers from a range of sectors,” he said. “Connections we made there continue to generate opportunities for us.” He encouraged all businesses involved in PNG’s development to consider exhibiting or attending in 2025. “Whether you’re looking to invest, grow your brand, or find the right

service partners, the expo offers access to industry leaders and valuable insights into what’s driving the country forward,” Wareing said. With all activities held at the centrally located Stanley Hotel, delegates can focus on meaningful engagement without the logistical stress. “Events like the PNG Expo play a vital role in supporting business growth,” Wareing said.

“They bring together suppliers, investors, and stakeholders in one space, allowing us to exchange ideas, showcase our capabilities, and explore new ways to support the businesses of PNG.” AM The 2025 PNG Expo will be held in Port Moresby from July 2–3. For more information on exhibiting, visit pngexpo.com

THE PNG EXPO FEATURES A PACKED EXHIBITION FLOOR AS WELL AS NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES.

AUSTRALIANMINING 72 MAY 2025

WA’s flagship mining event

Join us at Perth’s largest mining conference and exhibition, where industry leaders, innovators and visionaries come together.

8-9 October 2025 Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre 2024 event sold out, secure your spot today

waminingexpo.com.au

IMAGES: AUSIMM

INDUSTRY EVENTS

LOMMWT2025 WILL BE A DYNAMIC EVENT WITH A BROADER SCOPE.

THE MINING LIFE AUSIMM WILL RUN TWO OF ITS CONFERENCES – LIFE OF MINE AND MINE WASTE AND TAILINGS – SIDE-BY-SIDE IN JULY.

usIMM is set to turn the mining conference world on its head in 2025. For the first time, the peak industry body is running two of its most influential events side-by-side: Life of Mine and Mine Waste and Tailings (LOMMWT2025) conferences. To be held in Brisbane from July 29– 30, LOMMWT2025 will be a dynamic event with a broader scope and increased networking opportunities – and keynote speaker Dr Emma Gagen is looking especially forward to the opening day. “I love the Life of Mine conference, because it’s truly cross-disciplinary,” Gagen told Australian Mining. “It’s cross-disciplinary because, by nature, mine planning, closure, waste management, and post-mining transitions can’t be done without disciplines talking to each other. “This year, I’m excited to see the synergies between Life of Mine and the Waste and Tailings conference being leveraged to look at that design, planning and integrated closure approach to tailings storage facilities also getting a feature.” As International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) director data

and research, Gagen said she found her way into the mining industry “the long way around”. A microbiologist by training, she spent 10 years studying microorganisms that cycle metals and looking at how to harness that ability for biotechnology or improved environmental outcomes. “I saw a lot of openness to innovation in mining which was one big driver (of the career switch into the industry) but why I’ve stayed is the opportunities I’ve seen to continue to drive improved sustainability outcomes which took me to government for a short stint and now to ICMM,” Gagen said. “Mine closure is the element that will always remain my passion. Mine closure is constantly juggling between environmental, financial and social elements that I find fascinating, challenging and incredibly important.” Gagen will draw on this passion when she gives her keynote speech at LOMMWT2025. During her presentation, she will give an update on the Consolidated Mining Standard Initiative. “The initiative is an exciting process ICMM, CopperMark, World Gold Council and Mining Association of Canada have been embarking on

ICMM DIRECTOR DATA AND RESEARCH DR EMMA GAGEN.

for a number of years now towards the goal of simplifying the current mining standards landscape and promoting continual improvement of environmental, social and governance practices across metal and mineral value chains,” Gagen said. “I’ll be able to give an update on where we are on the consolidation process, the summary of the feedback that has been provided on the standard, the governance model, the assurance process and the reporting and claims, and next steps.”

AUSTRALIANMINING 74 MAY 2025

Gagen is also looking forward to seeing the submitted abstracts and catching up with peers in the industry. “I would encourage anyone with an interest in sustainability in mining to attend,” she said. “I would also encourage general managers and site superintendents to consider joining since they have decisions to make that are influenced by the interplay between integrated decisions throughout the life of mine and continual trade-offs between environmental, social and financial elements.” While it will be held in Queensland, LOMMWT2025 will be beneficial for the global mining industry, and Gagen is excited to share those discussions. “Mine closure, life of mine waste management, standards and reporting, and strategic mine planning aren’t just Australian-centric challenges,” she said. “The conversation I’d love the sector to have is, how do we solve the shared industry-wide challenges, how do we amplify better practice beyond our own backyard?” AM AusIMM’s Life of Mine and Mine Waste and Tailings conferences will be held in Brisbane from July 29–30.

womeninindustry.com.au CE

A EBR

TING THE

WOMEN IN INDUSTRY awards

CHAMPIONING WOMEN IN INDUSTRY SINCE 2016

Join us in celebrating the achievements of women in industry. 19 June 2025 / Carousel, Melbourne SPONSORED BY

Australia

Join Australia’s premier mining resource. DECISION-MAKERS

23 IMARC 20 A WIRTGEN GROUP COMPANY

COMMODITY SPOTLIGHT

AWARDS PROSPECT MINERALS L CA ITI CR | FEBRUARY 2024

ENT AGEM MAN

WASTE MINE G MININ PNG

AUTOMATION

VOLUME 116/01

ER 2023

/11 | DECEMB VOLUME 115 ERS Impressively strong. -MAK ISION . DECent Amazingly intellig

MOBICAT MC 120 PRO

2023 MBER | NOVE 5/10 ME 11 VOLU

rrow Tomo

Bette rial Indust Altra in d and new era ith a w ers in d brands d en ne to ow d en en ry. ering deliv vy Indust nd Hea

TO LOOKINGURDO E WN TO THE THE FLEUINATDINEGRS SET NCH

CRU

THOSUURGFHACTNEEMFOR 2024 A NEW ERA IN CRUSHING THEINSTCOEDAYC’SES G

MC 120 PRO

E ON TFHIT O FACE

AND SCREENIN

UR RESO OR SECT

TENANCE OPERATION. WITH INTUITIVE, LOW-MAIN nt preAND RUGGEDNESS, COUPLED crusher and the largest independe POWERFUL PERFORMANCE an impressively powerful the concept actively supports mobile jaw crusher features The MOBICAT MC 120 PRO The intuitive SPECTIVE operating MC 120 PRO: performance up to 650 t/h! touchscreen. The MOBICAT S screen in its class – for maximum and precisely – simply by quickly – IA PARTNER task every MED for OFFICIAL user in finding the ideal setting pack. power The intelligent www.kleemann.info

PRINT POST APPROVED PP100008185

Guildford WA 6055VED PP10000818 Highway (off Ivy St) · South APPRO LTD · Lot 2, Great Eastern PRINT POST WIRTGEN AUSTRALIA PTY · www.wirtgengroup.com/australia +61 448 030 420 RS T: +61 8 6279 2200 or Mobile RTNE IAL

OFFIC

lp an he IPS c tions. d.com xnord lu rexnor al Re rtrain So .regal e www Perth l Pow om nord.c

galrex

a@re

astle Newc

ane

A PA MEDI

85 000081 VED PP1 APPRO POST PRINT

SER

VING

THE

MIN

ING

INDU

OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNERS

STR

Y SI

SERVING

THE MIN

ING IND

USTRY S

INCE 19

SERVING THE MINING

INDUSTRY SINCE 1908

08 E 19

y Macka

Brisb

• Access unparalleled industry insights, news and trends. • Explore exclusive interviews, business profiles, newsworthy innovation, and the latest on regulation. • Australian Mining provides all information in one reputable source. AustralianMining

OzMining

Australian-Mining

INDUSTRY EVENTS

AN UNMISSABLE EVENT THE WOMEN IN INDUSTRY AWARDS RETURNS IN 2025 TO CHAMPION THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF WOMEN MAKING AN IMPACT ACROSS VARIOUS SECTORS. a year, but I already feel like I’ve found my home at Fortescue, everyone here is completely dedicated to the mission.”

Forging a greener path

With a focus on decarbonisation, Booth has made strides towards pushing Fortescue to the top of the ladder for leading sustainable mining practices. “It will become a critical focus for the mining industry over the next decade, and at Fortescue we are definitely forging a path of greening the industry,” she said Booth’s unwavering commitment to meeting Fortescue’s pivotal mandate is being executed within the company’s integration to green equipment and systems. Transformative initiatives fronted by Booth, such as the introduction of battery-electric mobile equipment and locomotives, emulates her commitment to eliminating emissions at Fortescue’s iron ore operations in the Pilbara.

Bridging the gender gap

Booth has also pioneered initiatives to bridge the industry gap in gender disparities and equity. “Having women represented in the mining industry has always been a driving force for me,” Booth said. “That’s

why Fortescue is the perfect place for me, because it sings to both passions I have around equality and decarbonisation.” Booth has not only epitomised excellence and innovation in the mining industry but has also led the Gomo Foundation, which aims to educate disadvantaged women in Africa, underpinning her dedication to shaping equality and sustainability. Booth’s mission to inspire and support women, foster diversity and cut emissions at Fortescue has helped shape the company but also set a precedent for the broader mining community. “You can’t be a leader unless people are willing to follow you,” Booth said. Other proud 2024 winners include Derelle Mitchell, who took home both the Woman of the Year and Excellence in Manufacturing awards, while the Business Development Success of the Year Award went to Sandra Robinson and the Rising Star of the Year Award went to Kate Leone. The Women in Industry Awards provide leading companies with the chance to shine a light on women who are inspiring excellence and leading companies in their respective workplaces and industries. As proud host of the Women in Industry Awards since 2014, Prime

SINEAD BOOTH WON THE MINING EXCELLENCE AWARD AT THE 2024 WOMEN IN INDUSTRY AWARDS.

Creative Media has echoed its support in celebrating exceptional women. This year’s event has seen various companies putting their hat in the ring to back the achievements of women. These businesses include Atlas Copco Australia sponsoring the Rising Star of the Year Award, PACCAR Australia backing the Safety Advocacy Award, Kenter Logistics sponsoring the Excellence in Transport Award and lastly, Fulton Hogan supporting the Woman of the Year Award. This unmissable event will showcase women who continue to inspire and represent future generations of women. AM The Women in Industry Awards will be held at the Carousel, Melbourne, on June 19. Secure your tickets at womeninindustry. com.au/awards

IMAGES: PRIME CREATIVE MEDIA

he annual Women in Industry Awards are returning to celebrate women making their mark in key industrial sectors. The event aims to honour women who are driving change in industries such as construction, energy, manufacturing, resources, engineering and transport. Ahead of the 2025 event, Australian Mining reflects on last year’s Mining Excellence Award winner, Sinead Booth, group manager, decarbonisation delivery at Fortescue. With a decade of both and global experience behind her, Booth has spearheaded game-changing programs at Fortescue and the broader mining industry. At the 2024 awards, Booth said she was committed to driving change towards a greener industry while closing the gender gap. “I feel extremely privileged to win the Mining Excellence Award,” she said at the time. “There is incredible work happening across the mining industry and I feel lucky that I get to play this little role in making the mining industry greener. Not a day goes by where we rest on our laurels. We drive change ourselves. I’ve only been here just over

THE 2025 WOMEN IN INDUSTRY AWARDS BE HELD ON JUNE 19.

AUSTRALIANMINING 77 MAY 2025

PRODUCTS

METSO LAUNCHES NORDBERG HP450E CONE CRUSHER

Atlas Copco’s new MS lighting tower range represents a significant step forward in mobile illumination technology, designed to meet the demanding needs of diverse industries. This cutting-edge series emphasises efficiency, durability, and optimal light distribution, ensuring safer and more productive work environments. A significant feature in the range is the integration of advanced LED technology, which provides bright, consistent light while significantly reducing energy consumption. The MS range has been engineered for robustness, featuring durable construction capable of withstanding harsh conditions on construction sites, mining operations, and large-scale events. Offering a user-friendly design, Atlas Copco has prioritised ease of transport, setup, and maintenance when developing this exciting product. The new range offers various models with customisable features, allowing users to select the perfect lighting solution for their specific applications. With a commitment to sustainability and performance, Atlas Copco’s latest lighting towers are set to redefine industry standards.

Metso has expanded its Nordberg HPe crusher series through the debut of the Nordberg HP450e cone crusher. The new Nordberg HP450e cone crusher provides a comprehensive, scalable and energy-efficient option for high-performance crushing in aggregates and mining applications. Some Nordberg HP450e cone crusher highlights include more efficient chambers, serviceability improvements, 10 per cent more head motion, 13 per cent more power, 20 per cent more force, and a feed cone lifting tool. Known as a mid-range unit, the Nordberg HP450e cone crusher is an environmentally friendly solution as backing material is not required. The HPe crusher series was initially introduced in 2023. Since then, it has rapidly expanded to six models ranging in size and process stages, from secondary to tertiary and quaternary crushing. Existing HP customers can refrofit their system with HPe technology.

• metso.com

IMAGE: METSO

IMAGE: ATLAS CEA

UP IN LIGHTS

• atlascea.com.au

Backplane Systems Technology has introduced the VECOW ECX3200, a highperformance, fanless 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 (central processing units) up to 65 watts (W) of thermal design power (TDP), providing a workstation-grade platform for mining operations. It is equipped with up to 64GB of DDR5 4800 megahertz (MHz) memory, ensuring high-level performance and reliability in complex data processing tasks. The ECX-3200 is uniquely designed for operation in extreme conditions, capable of functioning in temperatures ranging from -40°C to 75°C. This makes it perfectly suited for the harsh and varied environments typically found on mine sites. Its fanless design helps reduce maintenance needs and enhances longevity. For connectivity, the ECX-3200 boasts four independent 2.5GigE IEEE 802.3 at PoE+ LAN ports and two GigE LAN ports, facilitating rapid data transfer and seamless integration with various mining devices and sensors.

Flexco’s Flextreme PXT cushion for the P-Type secondary belt cleaner is designed for extreme heavy-duty mining applications conveying larger tonnages at quicker speeds. The cushion is encased in stainless steel and paired with a polyurethane dampener pressed into the cushion. This patented design ensures durability while eliminating the risk of delamination. It’s also 15 per cent lighter than Flexco’s standard cushion, improving safety during maintenance by reducing manual handling effort. The original P-Type cushion design, with its two plates bonded together, can be at risk of delamination issues under these more extreme conditions. The PXT cushion now provides an option for use in long shutdown cycles where standard cushions will fatigue. Compatible with existing P-type cleaners, the PXT cushion can be used with Flexco standard and extra-life tungsten tips. The PXT cushion is best suited for heavyduty applications within industries like aggregate, cement, coal, copper, open pit/ hard rock mining, and underground mining.

• backplane.com.au

• flexco.com

IMAGE: FLEXCO

THE FLEXTREME PXT SECONDARY BELT CLEANER CUSHION IMAGE: BACKPLANE SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY

BACKPLANE PRESENTS THE VECOW ECX-3200

AUSTRALIANMINING 78 MAY 2025

2–3 JULY 2025 THE STANLEY HOTEL PORT MORESBY, PAPUA NEW GUINEA REGISTER NOW

Bringing back face-to-face business

Tickets now available for the premier event helping PNG and Australia’s industrial, mining and resources industries forge connections, network and do business. Don’t miss your chance to connect with key players and industry leaders. Tickets are selling fast – secure yours now.