Author: isoadmin

In a significant move that highlights the growing consolidation within the Australian gold sector, Northern Star Resources has announced its acquisition of De Grey Mining in an all-share deal valued at AUD 5 billion (approximately USD 3.3 billion). This acquisition positions Northern Star to expand its portfolio with access to De Grey’s world-class Hemi gold project, one of the largest undeveloped gold assets globally, located in Western Australia’s Pilbara region. 

The deal reflects a strategic response to rising gold prices, which have surged by about a third over the past year. The Australian-dollar gold price recently reached record highs, surpassing AUD 4,240 per troy ounce, creating fertile ground for mergers and acquisitions across the industry. 

Strategic Benefits for Northern Star Resources 

The acquisition of De Grey Mining is a transformative step for Northern Star Resources. It aligns with the company’s strategy to acquire high-quality, large-scale gold assets in Tier-1 jurisdictions like Western Australia. The Hemi gold project offers a low-cost, long-life development opportunity that is set to become a cornerstone of Northern Star’s future operations. 

According to Stuart Tonkin, Northern Star’s Managing Director and CEO, “De Grey’s Hemi development project will deliver a low-cost, long-life, and large-scale gold mine in the Tier-1 jurisdiction of Western Australia, enhancing the quality of Northern Star’s asset portfolio to generate cash earnings.” 

The Hemi Gold Project 

The Hemi gold project, located in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, is a standout feature of this acquisition. With a mineral resource estimate of 264 million tonnes at 1.3 grams per tonne of gold, totalling 11.2 million ounces, Hemi is forecast to produce an average of 530,000 ounces of gold annually over its first decade of operation. This development is expected to ramp up toward the end of the decade, providing Northern Star with significant growth opportunities. 

Hemi will join Northern Star’s existing production centres: Kalgoorlie and Yandal operations in Western Australia and Pogo in Alaska. The addition of Hemi will increase Northern Star’s production capacity, with the merged entity’s growth path projected to reach 2.5 million ounces per annum. 

Benefits for De Grey Shareholders 

The deal is equally advantageous for De Grey shareholders, offering an attractive upfront premium while allowing them to retain ongoing exposure to the Hemi project. Additionally, shareholders will gain exposure to Northern Star’s broader portfolio of established production assets, creating a diversified investment opportunity. 

De Grey’s Managing Director, Glenn Jardine, emphasised the value of the transaction: “The transaction that we have entered with Northern Star today is a highly attractive opportunity for De Grey shareholders in terms of the upfront premium, as well as retaining ongoing exposure to Hemi and gaining exposure to the broader Northern Star portfolio.” 

Jardine also highlighted the strong project team assembled for Hemi and expressed confidence in the integration of this team into Northern Star, ensuring the project’s continued momentum. 

Consolidation in the Gold Sector 

The Northern Star–De Grey deal is part of a broader wave of mergers and acquisitions in the Australian gold sector in 2024. Other notable deals include mergers between Red 5 and Silver Lake Resources, Westgold Resources and Karora Resources, and Greatland Gold’s acquisition by Newmont. These consolidations reflect the high demand for gold assets and a focus on operational efficiency within the sector. 

As one of Australia’s leading gold miners, Northern Star’s acquisition of De Grey underscores its commitment to strengthening its asset portfolio and delivering superior returns for shareholders. By securing the Hemi project, Northern Star positions itself as a dominant player in the Australian gold industry, poised for sustained growth in the years to come. 

What This Means for the Gold Mining Industry 

The Northern Star–De Grey merger signals a trend toward strategic consolidation, driven by the increasing complexity of mining operations, rising costs, and the need to secure high-quality assets in stable jurisdictions. For Northern Star, the acquisition represents an opportunity to optimise its operations, expand its production capacity, and capitalise on high gold prices. 

For the gold mining industry as a whole, deals like this highlight the importance of collaboration and investment in large-scale, sustainable projects. With Hemi’s long-term potential and Northern Star’s operational expertise, this partnership is likely to set a benchmark for future mergers and acquisitions in the sector. 

The acquisition of De Grey Mining by Northern Star Resources is a landmark deal that will reshape the Australian gold mining landscape. By combining Northern Star’s operational expertise with De Grey’s Hemi project, the merged entity is well-positioned to drive growth, enhance shareholder value, and meet the increasing demand for gold in global markets. As experts in the mining industry, BLJ In-situ Solutions recognises the significance of this deal and its impact on advancing Australia’s gold sector to new heights. 

Image credit: Hemi gold project. De Grey Mining

In a significant stride towards fostering gender diversity in the resources industry, the Girls in Resources Leadership Skills (GIRLS) mentoring program has successfully concluded another round, celebrating the achievements of 20 young women from across Queensland. The program, now in its sixth year, has been instrumental in nurturing the aspirations of female students in Year 12, providing them with the guidance and confidence needed to explore careers in the resources sector.

The GIRLS program, an initiative by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA), the educational arm of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC), is delivered in collaboration with Women in Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ). This mentorship initiative connects participants with experienced female professionals from the resources industry, offering a unique opportunity for these young women to gain insights and inspiration from role models who have successfully navigated their careers in this traditionally male-dominated field.

QRC Chief Executive Officer Janette Hewson highlighted the program’s impact on both the participants and the industry. “Having a mentor in the resources sector while completing Year 12 is invaluable,” Hewson stated. “It will help the students as they make decisions about their career pathway.”

“It is an exciting time to join the resources sector as we meet the challenges of increasing sustainability and decarbonisation targets while meeting productivity demands,” she said. “We need the enthusiasm and innovation of young people to help us on that journey.”

The program’s success is evident in its outcomes: over 80 percent of past participants have gone on to pursue professional or trade careers within the resources sector. This impressive statistic underscores the program’s effectiveness in sparking interest and providing the tools and encouragement necessary for young women to take decisive steps towards a future in this vital industry.

One of this year’s participants, Charlotte Congram from Wavell State High School, shared her experience of the program. She joined the GIRLS program to connect with other girls interested in STEM and to learn from someone who has been through it all. “I am keen to study engineering and maths next year and having a mentor who is an experienced in these fields through her role at BHP has motivated me to pursue a career as a mining engineer,” said Charlotte.

The GIRLS mentoring program enjoys robust support from the industry, with BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) serving as the platinum sponsor since the program’s inception. BMA’s Head of Human Resources, Tamara Barden, expressed the company’s pride in being part of an initiative that empowers young women and enriches the industry with new talent. “This is about more than financial sponsorship, many of our people have been involved in the program as students and then returned to be a mentor to others, which is a testimony to its success,” Barden remarked. The GIRLS mentoring program “is a highly respected program which is having an impact, with four out of five participants going on to have a professional or trades career in the resources industry.”

In addition to BMA, the GIRLS program is supported by several other major industry players, including ConocoPhillips, Jellinbah, Glencore Technology, Rio Tinto, Thiess, and Whitehaven Coal, all of whom have committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within the sector. These companies recognise the importance of initiatives like the GIRLS program in creating a more equitable and inclusive work environment, which in turn drives innovation and growth.

WIMARQ Co-chair Sally Rayner emphasised the importance of such initiatives in achieving a more diverse workforce. “Initiatives like the GIRLS mentoring program play a crucial role in attracting talented young women to be a part of the future of the resources sector, which helps create a more diverse, equitable and inclusive environment. There is an abundance of career opportunities for women interested in trade and professional roles in the resources sector; this mentoring experience will give them the confidence to pursue those dreams.” Rayner said.

As the GIRLS program continues to grow, it stands as a testament to the power of mentorship and the positive impact that a supportive network can have on the career trajectories of young women. By encouraging their interest in the resources sector and providing them with role models who have successfully navigated the industry, the GIRLS program is helping to shape a more diverse, innovative, and sustainable future for the resources sector in Queensland.

Images: Queensland Resources Council 

Queensland has unveiled a pioneering renewable energy code of conduct, marking a pivotal moment in the state’s clean energy journey. This is a significant leap towards a sustainable future. 

Empowering Communities in the Transition 

The Queensland Government’s latest initiative aims to empower regional communities by ensuring their active participation in the clean energy transition. With renewable energy poised to create over 100,000 new jobs by 2040, the code of conduct seeks to make local residents full partners in Queensland’s renewable energy boom. 

“I expect that this nation-leading code will put communities firmly at the forefront of the energy transition because they should have a genuine seat at the table when it comes to decisions in their local area,” said Minister for Energy and Clean Economy Jobs Mick de Brenni. 

“Because we’re committed to ensuring the transition benefits all Queenslanders, we’re ensuring local communities reap the reward by making social licence a race to the top. 

A Collaborative Approach 

Co-designed with key stakeholders, the code mandates genuine engagement between renewable energy developers and local communities throughout the project lifecycle, from development to operation. This collaborative approach ensures that communities are not just bystanders but active contributors to the state’s renewable energy landscape. 

Putting Communities First 

Minister for Energy and Clean Economy Jobs Mick de Brenni emphasized the importance of prioritizing communities in the transition. The code’s implementation is supported by a $20 million investment from the Regional Economic Futures Fund, which enables communities to establish legacy infrastructure and advance critical services. 

“We’ve listened to key advocacy groups like the Queensland Farmers Federation and the Local Government Association Queensland and have taken on feedback from those who know their local communities best.”said de Brenni. 

Setting New Standards 

The code focuses on tangible benefits for communities, including infrastructure improvements and job creation. It sets new standards for social license and regional community priorities. It incorporates findings from the Commonwealth’s Independent Community Engagement Review, reflecting best practices and community priorities. 

A Blueprint for the Future 

The Queensland Government’s commitment to renewable energy is evident in its efforts to set the benchmark globally for leading practices. By prioritising communities, landholders, and environmental protections, Queensland is paving the way for a sustainable and inclusive energy future. 

“If developers want to be approved to connect to the Queensland SuperGrid, they’ll need to show that they can work in partnership with the local community – because locals know their area best.” said de Brenni. 

Conclusion 

As Queensland takes bold steps towards a renewable energy future, the introduction of the renewable energy code of conduct marks a milestone in the state’s journey towards sustainability. With communities at the forefront, Queensland is poised to lead the way in embracing clean energy and building a brighter future for generations to come. 

Queensland’s mining landscape is undergoing a remarkable transformation as the Dugald River Solar Farm (also known as Mica Creek Solar Farm), Australia’s largest remote grid solar farm, springs to life. This monumental project is set to revolutionise energy consumption in Australia’s outback, supplying renewable energy to major mining operations and propelling Queensland’s mining sector into a greener future.

With its vast expanse spanning 200 hectares and adorned with 180,000 solar panels, the Dugald River Solar Farm is an impressive sight to behold. Generating an impressive 88 megawatts of power, enough to sustain 90,000 homes, this solar farm signifies a significant step towards sustainable energy solutions in the resource-rich North West Minerals Province of Queensland.

The solar farm’s strategic location is no coincidence. It is poised to support key mining projects by MMG Limited, Mount Isa Mines, and New Century Resources, all major players in the region’s thriving mining industry. By harnessing renewable energy, these mining operations are not only reducing their environmental footprint but also setting a new standard for responsible resource extraction.

APA Group, the owner of the Dugald River Solar Farm, underscores the pivotal role of renewable energy projects in fostering Australia’s mining industry’s development. Petrea Bradford, APA Group’s executive of operations, highlights the surging demand for renewable energy in the mining sector, driven by the need for cost-effective and reliable alternatives.

“The North West region has a huge renewable resource. Our strategy for being in the North West is to support our mining customers as they continue to look to decarbonise with renewable energy solutions,” she said.

The significance of renewable energy adoption extends beyond environmental considerations. Queensland’s North West Minerals Province boasts an estimated worth of $500 billion and hosts some of the world’s richest deposits of critical minerals like copper, zinc, and vanadium. As global demand for these metals intensifies, Australia’s renewable energy initiatives position us as a key player in meeting the world’s growing needs for renewable technologies.

However, the path towards renewable energy adoption is not without its challenges. One of the primary barriers to the development of Queensland’s rural mining industry has been access to cheap and reliable energy. Recognising this impediment, the Queensland government has taken proactive steps to address the issue, including the acquisition of the CopperString 2.0 project.

CopperString 2.0, a groundbreaking 1,100-kilometer overhead transmission line connecting the North West Minerals Province to the grid near Townsville, promises to provide a reliable and efficient energy supply to the region’s businesses and residents. This ambitious initiative represents a significant investment in Queensland’s renewable energy infrastructure and underscores the government’s commitment to supporting sustainable development in the mining sector.

As Australia stands on the brink of a critical minerals boom, fuelled by the global demand for technology, the integration of renewable energy solutions into the mining industry is more crucial than ever. APA Group’s proactive approach to renewable energy investment reflects a broader industry trend towards sustainable practices and responsible resource management.

With the Dugald River Solar Farm leading the charge, Queensland’s mining sector is embracing a brighter, greener future powered by renewable energy and guided by a commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.

BLJ In-situ Solutions, a leading provider of on-site machining services, has expanded our portfolio with the recent acquisition of cutting-edge equipment: a 4.3M Orbital Milling Machine, the Mirage MM 3000i and MM 4300i. This strategic investment underscores BLJ’s commitment to innovation and enhancing our capabilities better to serve clients in need of precision machining solutions in-situ.

The Mirage Orbital Milling Machines, MM 3000i and MM 4300i, are state-of-the-art orbital milling machines renowned for their exceptional performance and versatility. Mirage Orbital Milling Machines deliver fast material removal and precision flatness tolerances across large diameters. These machines are designed to deliver precise, high-quality machining results directly on-site, eliminating the need for costly and time-consuming dismantling and transportation of equipment to off-site machining facilities. With their advanced features and robust construction, the Mirage Orbital Milling Machines are capable of tackling a wide range of machining tasks with precision and efficiency.

One of the key highlights of this acquisition is BLJ’s in-house engineering and manufacture of an adjustable internal mount spider base plate. This innovative base plate design enhances the flexibility and adaptability of the Mirage Orbital Milling Machine, allowing us to accommodate a broader range of sizes and configurations in the field. By customising the base plate to suit specific project requirements, BLJ ensures that clients receive tailored solutions that meet their exact machining needs, regardless of the complexity or scale of the task at hand.

The addition of the Mirage Orbital Milling Machine with a custom base plate to our arsenal of in-situ machining equipment represents a significant milestone for the BLJ team. With these cutting-edge machines, BLJ is well-positioned to undertake a diverse range of machining projects across various markets, including mining, power generation, oil and gas, infrastructure, and more. Whether it’s machining large-scale components, repairing critical machinery, or performing precision modifications, BLJ has the expertise and resources to deliver superior results on-site, minimising downtime and maximising operational efficiency for our clients.

At BLJ In-situ Solutions, we pride ourselves on our unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and quality craftsmanship. With our team of highly skilled technicians and engineers, BLJ possesses the expertise and experience to execute complex machining tasks with precision and professionalism. By investing in advanced equipment like the Mirage Orbital Milling Machines, MM 3000i and MM 4300i, BLJ reaffirms our dedication to providing innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our valued clients while maintaining the highest standards of safety, reliability, and performance.

For clients seeking machining solutions in-situ, BLJ In-situ Solutions offers a comprehensive range of services tailored to your specific requirements. With our newly expanded capabilities and state-of-the-art equipment, BLJ is ready to tackle even the most challenging machining projects with confidence and precision. We are poised to continue leading the industry and exceeding our client’s expectations across various sectors. For all your machining requirements in-situ, BLJ In-situ Solutions stands ready to deliver superior results on time and on budget.

In a significant development that sent shockwaves through the mining industry and the local community, Glencore, one of the world’s largest mining companies, has announced the closure of its Mount Isa Mines. This decision, which will impact 1,200 workers, marks the end of an era for a region that has long been synonymous with mining and resource extraction.

The Announcement

The decision to close Mount Isa Mines came as a startling revelation to the affected employees, the mining sector, and the local community. Glencore made an official statement regarding the closure, stating the mine’s operations will cease in 2025 after multiple reviews determined the copper mining operation had reached its “end of life”.

“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’s Zinc Assets Australia COO Sam Strohmayr said.

This news was met with widespread concern and disappointment locally and nationally. Mount Isa Mines has played a significant role in the Australian mining industry for almost a century, contributing to the nation’s copper, lead, zinc, and silver production.

Mount Isa Mines’ Legacy

Mount Isa Mines, located in the heart of North West Queensland, has long been considered an economic pillar for the region. With the hundred-year-old mine’s history dating back to the early 1920s, the operation has consistently been a major employer and a source of economic stability for the surrounding communities. The mine has been instrumental in extracting copper, lead, and zinc, essential resources in modern industrial processes, such as electronics manufacturing and construction.

Moreover, the mine has supported a wide range of jobs, including miners, engineers, technicians, and a vast array of support staff, contributing to the local economy. In many ways, the closure marks the end of an era, impacting not only the workers and their families but also the broader region.

Impact on the Workforce

The closure of Mount Isa Mines is estimated to affect approximately 1,200 employees, who will soon face the daunting prospect of redeployment, retraining and even redundancy. These workers come from various backgrounds, including skilled tradespeople and professionals with specialised knowledge in mining and resource extraction.

The sudden announcement has left these employees in a state of uncertainty. Many are now facing the challenge of finding new employment opportunities and securing their livelihoods. This development will impact the individuals directly involved and ripple through the community, affecting local businesses, housing, and services that depend on these workers’ income.

The Economic and Social Consequences

The repercussions of this decision extend far beyond the prospective job losses. The Mount Isa Mines’ closure will also have profound economic and social consequences for the region. Mount Isa’s 20,000-strong population, whom the mine has propped up, will be significantly affected. The mining operation has been a vital source of revenue for local businesses, creating a symbiotic relationship with the community. As workers and their families face the prospect of relocating in search of employment opportunities, the subsequent downturn in economic activity may result in a loss of essential services and businesses, a loss of social cohesion and a potential decline in the local property market.

Government Response and Assistance

The Queensland Government has acknowledged the severity of the situation and has committed to supporting affected workers and the local community. Queensland’s Deputy Premier Steven Miles stated that the government would assist affected workers and help the local community in this transition. This support will be essential to mitigating the social and economic impacts of the closure.

The Implications

The decision to close Mount Isa Mines marks the end of a historic chapter in the Australian mining industry and the local community. While Glencore cites low-quality ore as the primary reason for this decision, the 1,200 workers and the broader region will deeply feel the consequences. The closure underscores the challenges faced by the mining industry in an evolving global economy and the importance of planning for the social and environmental aspects of such transitions. The full extent of the impact on the community and the environment remains to be seen as affected individuals and the government work together to navigate the complex aftermath of this decision.

Australia is on the brink of a transformative minerals mining boom driven by the global push for renewable energy and technological advancements. The spotlight is on critical minerals, which play a vital role in electronic devices and renewable energy technologies, such as electric cars, wind farms, and solar energy. This boom is further amplified by the recent launch of the Critical Minerals Strategy 2023–2030, aimed at propelling Australia to become a world-leading producer of critical minerals while contributing to a net-zero emissions future.

Australia’s Critical Minerals Strategy 2023–2030

The Critical Minerals Strategy 2023–2030 outlines the Australian government’s vision to strengthen the country’s critical minerals sector and create resilient and sustainable supply chains through robust international partnerships. The strategy emphasises building sovereign capability in critical minerals processing and leveraging these resources to establish Australia as a renewable energy superpower. Additionally, it aims to extract more value from onshore resources, generating economic opportunities and jobs for regional and Indigenous communities.

A Coordinated Approach Between Industry and Government

Industry and government collaboration is crucial to the success of the Critical Minerals Strategy. Queensland plays a pivotal role in this endeavour with its rich critical mineral deposits. The Queensland government is committed to establishing the state as a global leader in essential mineral exports and has allocated $245 million to boost the sector under its Critical Minerals Strategy. The plan includes abolishing exploration permit fees for the next five years, establishing critical mineral zones, funding waste stream initiatives, and creating a centralised oversight body called ‘Critical Minerals Queensland.’ Additionally, the state will target mining waste and tailings for critical minerals and invest in scientific research on circular economy initiatives.

Seizing Opportunities for a Greener Future

The potential benefits of Australia’s critical minerals sector are immense. Independent modelling indicates that increased exports of critical and energy-transition minerals could create over 115,000 new jobs and add $71.2 billion to Australia’s GDP by 2040. However, the country can unlock even greater opportunities by expanding downstream refining and processing capabilities. The government plans to target $500 million of new investment into critical minerals projects through the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility to achieve this. It will also establish the National Reconstruction Fund, which allocates $1 billion for value-add in resources and $3 billion for renewables and low emissions technologies. These initiatives are vital for maximising the value of critical minerals and ensuring Australia’s role as a key player in the global metals supply chain for clean energy solutions.

The Path to a Renewable Energy Superpower

Critical minerals are becoming increasingly valuable as the world accelerates its transition towards renewable energy. Vanadium, copper, zinc, and cobalt are just a few examples of the essential minerals needed for renewable energy technologies. In Queensland’s northwest, numerous exploration projects are seeking rich deposits of vanadium to support the production of redox flow batteries for energy storage in power plants and electrical grids. The state’s significant critical mineral reserves and the government’s strategic investments help position Queensland at the forefront of the renewable energy revolution.

A Decisive Strategy with Room for Improvement

While the Critical Minerals Strategy is a step in the right direction, some stakeholders have highlighted areas for improvement. Industry experts indicate that the strategy needs major policy schemes or a comprehensive onshoring action plan. Addressing these aspects will be crucial to ensure that Australia maximises the potential of its critical minerals sector and fully capitalises on the renewable energy transition.

Conclusion

Australia’s critical minerals boom, powered by the recently unveiled Critical Minerals Strategy, is poised to transform the nation’s mining and manufacturing landscape. With a strong emphasis on downstream processing and expanding onshore capabilities, the strategy aims to position Australia as a global leader in critical minerals and a key player in the clean energy future. Collaborative efforts between industry and government, particularly in Queensland, will be vital in unlocking the full potential of this transformative opportunity. As the world’s appetite for renewable energy technology grows, Australia’s rich geological reserves and mining expertise will play a pivotal role in shaping a greener future for all.

Read more about the Critical Minerals Strategy 2023–2030 and Queensland’s Critical Minerals Strategy.

The latest figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) have revealed a significant downturn in mining turnover, with a 10.6% decrease in April compared to March. This decline positions mining as one of the nine industries to see turnover fall this past month. But what does this data mean for the mining industry?

The ABS Findings

According to Kate Lamb, the ABS head of business indicators, the decline in mining turnover can be attributed to the decrease in coal and iron ore exports, coupled with falling commodity prices. The mining industry recorded the largest percentage decrease in turnover among the selected industries. The electricity, gas, water, and waste services sector also witnessed a significant monthly fall in turnover (-9.4%), while the transport, postal, and warehousing industry experienced a downturn of 6.8%.

In year-on-year terms, 11 out of the 13 industries analysed by the ABS witnessed a rise in turnover, highlighting the contrast between monthly and annual trends. Notably, the construction industry showed substantial growth (+18.0%), followed by other services (+13.6%) and accommodation and food services (+11.1%). However, both the mining industry and the information media and telecommunications sector experienced year-on-year declines of 5.2% and 0.1%, respectively.

Implications for the Mining Industry

The downturn in mining turnover raises concerns about the challenges faced by the industry. With declining exports and falling commodity prices, mining companies need to carefully navigate this difficult period. A range of factors may be influencing this downturn, including changes in global demand, market dynamics, and geopolitical factors affecting international trade.

The decrease in mining turnover emphasises the need for the industry to enhance its resilience and adaptability. Mining companies should consider exploring strategies such as diversification, technological advancements, and operational efficiencies to mitigate the impact of market fluctuations. These measures can help optimise resource allocation, reduce costs, and maintain competitiveness in a challenging environment.

Furthermore, the year-on-year decline in mining turnover calls for a closer examination of long-term sustainability and resilience within the sector. Mining companies should focus on adopting environmentally and socially responsible practices to align with evolving global trends and stakeholder expectations. Embracing sustainable mining practices and investing in technologies that promote efficiency and reduce environmental impact can contribute to the industry’s long-term growth and stability.

The ABS data clearly indicates a significant downturn in mining turnover, reflecting challenges faced by the industry. The decrease in exports and falling commodity prices have contributed to this decline. Mining companies need to carefully evaluate their strategies and adapt to the changing market conditions. By diversifying operations, embracing sustainable practices, and investing in innovation, the mining industry can navigate these challenges and position itself for long-term success.

The global mining and resources sectors are gearing up for the 26th World Mining Congress (WMC) 2023, to be held in Brisbane, June 26-29, 2023. This prestigious international gathering will be hosted by Australia’s national science agency, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO). Industry leaders, researchers, regulators, and investors from across the globe will come together to explore the future of mining and its impact on society. BLJ In-Situ Solutions is one of the many organisations eagerly anticipating the conference and the exciting opportunities it presents.

The 2023 WMC will focus on Resourcing Tomorrow: Creating Value for Society as it examines our world’s economic and social dependence on resources into the future. The Congress will tackle issues such as environmental sustainability, digital transformation, disruptive technologies, climate change, and the future of our workforce.

A Unique Opportunity for Global Collaboration:

Since its inauguration in 1958, the WMC has served as the leading international forum for the mining and resources industries. Held triennially, the WMC presents a unique opportunity to unite representatives from the world’s top resource economies and encourage collaboration, sharing expertise, and tackling present-day obstacles. The 26th WMC aims to continue this tradition, presenting a valuable opening for stakeholders to facilitate global information exchange about sustainable mining practices, discuss current challenges and future opportunities, and build new partnerships.

The Host: CSIRO – Leading Innovation and Research:

Australia’s CSIRO is proud to host the WMC 2023. With a team of over 5,500 skilled professionals and researchers working across multiple disciplines and fields, CSIRO is at the forefront of resource research and innovation. Their cutting-edge and breakthrough technologies, such as sensing and automation, have improved productivity and safety for workers across Australia. CSIRO’s dedication to expanding the resource base, enhancing environmental performance, and promoting social welfare perfectly aligns with Congress’s goals of creating value for society through sustainable mining practices.

Shaping the Future of Mining:

WMC 2023 will address a diverse range of topics through plenary sessions, workshops, and panel discussions. These themes include:

There are three prominent symposia within WMC 2023 that address the future of mining and resources in a global context.

• The Sustainable Construction Materials symposium will explore the environmental and social challenges associated with the extraction of sand, gravel, and crushed stone. It will also address circular economy principles and the development of low-carbon alternatives for concrete.
• The Mine Closure symposium will focus on the challenges posed by mine closures and the responsible management of environmental and social transitions. Case studies from around the world will be presented, along with discussions on technological innovations, progressive closure practices, and the engagement of local communities.
• The Minerals Policy & Governance for the New Economy symposium seeks international acceptance for government support in research, education, partnerships, and guaranteed purchasing to achieve environmentally and socially responsible mining goals in fossil fuel transition areas.

Queensland’s Role in Showcasing Resources and Advancements:

As the official host state partner, the Queensland Government will have the opportunity to showcase the state’s abundance of mineral resources and advancements in the mining industry. Queensland is a significant player in the global resources market thanks to its rich deposits of coal, bauxite, gold, and other minerals. Queensland state government aims to demonstrate its innovative mining practices, sustainable resource management, and commitment to responsible mining.

Throughout WMC 2023, Queensland representatives will highlight the state’s mining infrastructure, which includes ports, rail networks, and export facilities that allow for the efficient transportation of resources to both domestic and international markets. The Queensland mining industry strongly emphasises environmental stewardship and community engagement, ensuring that mining operations coexist harmoniously with local communities and ecosystems, a key topic at the 2023 WMC.

Business and Networking Opportunities:

A key benefit of attending WMC 2023 is the opportunity to network with industry leaders, researchers, investors, and government representatives from around the world. The WMC 2023 will feature a comprehensive exhibition showcasing cutting-edge technologies, equipment, and services from global industry leaders in the mining and resources sectors.

Gathering international experts and investors presents a wealth of opportunities for business connections and research advancements. Industry experts and researchers from across the globe will be brought together to share insights, present research findings, and discuss emerging trends in the mining sector. This exchange of knowledge and ideas can foster collaboration and accelerate technological advancements in areas such as automation, digitalisation, and sustainable mining practices. The Congress will also hold business forums and matchmaking sessions, facilitating connections between industry players and potential investors to foster joint ventures and investment opportunities that drive future growth and development in the mining industry. This provides a platform for companies like BLJ In-Situ Solutions to discuss innovative solutions and forge valuable partnerships.

For BLJ In-Situ Solutions, the upcoming World Mining Congress 2023 presents a unique opportunity to connect with industry leaders and be at the forefront of the latest research and developments. BLJ In-Situ Solutions is excited to hear the global dialogue on sustainable mining and the industry’s future.

Queensland has officially opened its largest gold mine, the Ravenswood mine. Having undergone a $350 million expansion at the site, the mine has created nearly 400 local jobs, supported 1000 contractors and a further 220 permanent contractors. The gold mine is set to produce over 200,000 ounces of gold a year. 

The opening ceremony was attended by Resources Minister Scott Stewart and Ravenswood Gold CEO Brett Fletcher. Resources Minister Scott Stewart said the project “deserves a gold medal for how it supports locals and local businesses”. 

Located 130km southwest of Townsville, the Ravenswood mine is a major economic boost for the state and will create hundreds of jobs. It is also a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Ravenswood Gold team. 

The Resources Minister said the mine was a significant investment in Queensland’s resources sector. The Ravenswood mine is expected to produce over 200,000 ounces of gold a year, which will generate significant economic benefits for the state. 

CEO Brett Fletcher said the mine was “a great example of local people working together with private business and government to bring real benefits for the State of Queensland”. 

“We are delivering huge economic benefits and providing local employment opportunities, with the vast majority of our team living within a two-hour drive of the mine.” The Ravenswood mine is proud to be a part of the Queensland community. 

The Ravenswood mine has been in operation since 1987 and was purchased by Ravenswood Gold in April 2020. The company has invested in the expansion of the mine, which is expected to increase production. 

The Economic Impact of the Ravenswood Mine

The mine is located in the heart of the Queensland goldfields and is one of the largest gold producers in the state. The region is already home to a number of other mines, including the Mount Isa mine. 

The opening of the Ravenswood mine is expected to boost the regional economy, create jobs in the mining and construction sectors and generate millions of dollars in revenue for the state. It is also expected to have a positive impact on the local community, providing support for businesses and services in the region. 

The Ravenswood mine is a welcome addition to the Queensland resources sector. The mine is a sign of confidence in the state’s mining industry and is a vote of support for the Queensland economy. 

Image credit: qld.gov.au