Mining
main areas of demand but increasingly for copper and even nickel and zinc as well. That is exciting because we’re not completely reliant on iron ore and coal, which are obviously two of our bigger exports.” Demand for blue-collar jobs such as dump truck drivers, mechanical fitters and excavator operators is starting to ramp up again. “These are pretty straightforward roles,” says Kent, “but during the downturn, wages got cut and working underground especially is still a pretty difficult job, what with the rosters and being away from family.” With the reduction in wages, mining has had to compete with other industries to retain those people. “Take, for example, someone working in an underground coal mine in regional Queensland. There is the threat of black lung and all sorts of health risks but they’re only earning a few bucks an hour more than in a factory just outside Brisbane, where they go home to their family every night.” As a result, Kent says wages for low-level blue-collar roles are starting to go up as mining companies realise they can’t attract people to the sector. For that reason, he expects the first stage of wage inflation will be in the blue-collar space in the coming year. Even with wages destined to go up, Kent believes it will be difficult to entice people back into the sector. “Workers
weren’t treated brilliantly when there was that quick reduction in commodity prices, there was a bit of panic, rosters were cut, wages were cut, conditions were cut and there were years of negative press about the mining sector. The challenge for the industry is to bring some of those workers back and bring new workers into the industry. “There is a marketing piece to be done about the career opportunities in the mining sector. Mining companies need to reassure people who doubt that there are opportunities that it’s possible to make some competitive money but there are also opportunities for career advancement, that mining is a cutting-edge industry that embraces a diverse culture.”
OreWin is Recruiting We currently have positions available for highly capable and motivated consultants. OreWin is an independent mining consultancy offering professional services to the minerals sector in the disciplines of geology, mining engineering, metallurgy and processing, and project management. Our aim is to add value to our clients at all stages of the mining cycle by providing high-quality, practical, and tailored solutions in a collaborative, timely, and cost effective manner. We can manage or contribute to mining feasibility studies, from conceptual to definitive. We are adept at reporting in JORC, NI 43-101 and other jurisdictions. OreWin’s head office is located in Adelaide, however our work is
undertaken globally — currently active in Australia, Mongolia, Canada, South Africa, the DR Congo, and Turkey. Reasons to work at OreWin • Our people are treated as individuals. • The principals of the business are hands-on, with over 30+ years of experience. • Based in modern CBD offices with a terrific team of experienced professionals. • Develop a wide range of experience through exposure to a variety of technical challenges. • Personalised growth and development opportunities. Once you start consulting with OreWin you won’t want to go back! To apply visit www.orewin.com