March 2025

The Federal Government has unveiled its $1b Green Iron Fund, designed to boost manufacturing and supply chains by supporting early mover green iron projects and unlocking private investment at scale. Up to $500m has been earmarked for Whyalla steelworks, with the other half of the pot open to applicants around Australia for both existing facilities and greenfield projects that can supercharge Australia’s world-leading iron ore industry. Federal Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen says the energy transition is driving a manufacturing jobs boom. “Australian manufacturing workers today — from the software lab to the steelworks and smelters — have so much to gain from the transformation underway,” he said. “We’re ensuring Australian manufacturers directly benefit from the renewable energy…

Pilbara Minerals, now known as PLS (ASX: PLS), has completed its acquisition of Latin Resources and its flagship Salinas project in Brazil. The acquisition is consistent with PLS’ strategy to grow and diversify revenues beyond Pilgangoora. According to PLS, the Salinas project has the potential to become a leading hard rock lithium operation by production globally, with development flexibility to supply new markets. With the acquisition complete, the Salinas project will be renamed the Colina project. PLS managing director and chief executive Dale Henderson comments on the acquisition. “On behalf of the PLS board of directors and the leadership team, we would like to welcome Latin Resources team members and security holders joining PLS,” he said. “We are excited by…

Worsley Alumina in WA has received federal environmental approval for the Worsley Mine Development Project under the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (1999). This follows South32’s (ASX: S32) appeal of the WA EPA’s recommendations for the Worsley mine expansion in July 2024. The federal approval is subject to conditions which are substantively consistent with the state environmental approval received on December 20, 2024. The development project will enable access to bauxite to sustain production at Worsley Alumina, with mining of bauxite areas located near existing operations expected to commence in Q4 FY25. South32 will now also commence the development of new mining areas that are expected to sustain production to at least FY36. South 32 chief executive Graham Kerr…

BHP (ASX: BHP) had a strong start to FY25, with the company expecting an enduring competitive advantage, thanks in part to its portfolio of commodities linked to global megatrends such as population growth, data centres and AI and the energy transition. According to BHP, demand for commodities in the developed world continued to be soft in CY24 as sluggish industrial activity persisted. However, the company expects recovery for steel and copper demand across the OECD in the near-term. Still, BHP says potential trade tensions present a risk to the recovery in developed economies and across the globe. “Over the long term, population growth, urbanisation, rising living standards, and the infrastructure required for digitisation and decarbonisation are all expected to drive…

 

Aussie Pumps - Aussie Extreme

AUSTLIFT® - Chain Block Series

DTN - Lean on us - Gain trusted weather insights and intelligence

Crusher Screen Sales & Hire

Image Resources (ASX: IMA) has achieved first heavy mineral concentrate (HMC) production at the company’s 100%-owned Atlas mineral sands project, 170km north of Perth WA. Despite construction delays from site evacuations for the bush fire in late November 2024, accelerated construction in December and January resulted in the completion of all major construction activities, allowing a wind down to the remaining non-process infrastructure items. This is in line with the forecast and associated construction schedule approved by the board in July 2024. Image Resources managing director and chief executive Patrick Mutz says this is a significant milestone for the company, on the heels of the successful construction and early-stage commissioning of its second mineral sands project. “Over the next few…

The Federal and WA Governments are teaming up to bolster Australia’s critical minerals processing power with a joint $3m investment to support a feasibility study for a common user Critical Minerals Advanced Processing (CMAP) facility in WA. Federal Resources and Northern Australia Minister Madeleine King says the funding under the $10.2m Critical Minerals National Productivity Initiative will investigate a facility to be built in the Perth region. “The CMAP facility will be home to pilot plant equipment for small and medium sized businesses to undertake downstream processing of critical minerals and strategic materials at demonstration scale,” she said. “Common user facilities are an important piece of the puzzle when it comes to scaling up our capacity to process our mineral…

Fortescue (ASX: FMG) will acquire Red Hawk Mining (ASX: RHK) by way of a $254m off-market takeover bid. Red Hawk is the owner of the Blacksmith Project, an undeveloped iron ore project located in WA, 30km west of Fortescue’s Solomon operations in the Western Hub. The total Blacksmith mineral resource estimate is 243mt at 59.3% iron. The offer price represents an attractive premium of 29% to Red Hawk’s 30-day volume weighted average price (VWAP). The cash consideration under the offer delivers immediate worth to Red Hawk shareholders and provides certainty, noting the significant risks to the development of greenfield iron ore projects. The Red Hawk board unanimously recommends shareholders accept the offer at both the base offer price and, if…

Welding Industries Australia - Miller - Made for the mine site

Miller Made for the Mine Site

Westgold (ASX: WGX) is positioning itself as an Australian gold titan, with promising half-year results including gold production of 158,255oz with all-in sustaining costs of $2,562poz. These results follow the company’s merger with Karora and subsequent inclusion in the ASX200 and dual listing on the ASX and TSX. Westgold says its 29.4% increase in gold production from H1FY24 was a result of the Karora acquisition. Combined with higher achieved gold prices, this increased production contributed to a record half year revenue of $624m. Westgold managing director and chief executive Wayne Bramwell says the post-merger results solidify the company’s position as one of Australia’s top five gold mining companies. “This half-year was a period of consolidation and strategic investment, with a…

Heavy-duty solutions for Pit Viper fleets Across Australia’s demanding mining sites, Pit Viper drill rigs play a crucial role in deep exploration and high-volume production. Keeping these fleets running efficiently requires more than just routine maintenance — it demands expert solutions designed for the toughest conditions. With a heritage built on heavy-duty knowledge and a reputation for delivering practical, high-performance solutions, NAPA understands what it takes to keep your operations moving. We have a commitment to safety, quality and innovation. NAPA mining channel manager Angelo De Jesus says that his customers have praised the ease and simplicity of the D13A Battery installation process, noting the added benefit of no longer having to handle a 60kg battery. “NAPA provides a complete…

With over 35 years of industry experience across Western Australia and Queensland, Denver Technology has become a trusted name in delivering tailored IT/OT solutions for the mining sector. We sat down with Keren Jenns, Chief Technology Officer at Denver Technology to discuss their approach to IT/OT integration and the challenges facing modern mining operations. Overcoming IT/OT integration challenges “Mining companies often struggle to integrate on-site OT with corporate IT,” explains Keren Jenns. “We provide the expertise to streamline operations, reduce costs, and simplify systems. With the industry responding to increased demand for critical minerals, flexibility is key. We’re helping clients restart mines and repurpose assets to meet market demands.” The Role of IT/OT in Mining “Mining operations today are more…

Attard Engineering is a leader in precision engineering, specialising in CNC machining, metal fabrication, mechanical design, 3D tube laser cutting, 5-axis milling, heavy turning, and robotic welding. Committed to quality, innovation, and efficiency, we provide tailored solutions for industries requiring high-performance components and advanced manufacturing techniques. Our qualified mechanical and materials engineers offer product design and manufacturing assistance, helping clients optimise solutions from concept to production. Our CNC machining ensures accuracy and consistency, producing complex parts with tight tolerances. We use state-of-the-art technology to meet aerospace, automotive, and industrial demands. Metal fabrication is central to our expertise, offering welding, bending, and custom fabrication. With our mechanical design expertise, we develop functional, manufacturable solutions. Our 3D tube laser cutting enables fast,…

Adept Training is a Nationally Accredited college and delivers comprehensive, flexible training in drugs of abuse (urine, saliva and alcohol breathalyser) right across Australia. Adept Training has been a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) for over 20 years and has successfully delivered training to hundreds of Australian businesses. Our Nationally Accredited drug and alcohol trainers are qualified toxicology and pathology collectors with Cert IV TAE and current experience testing in the workplace. This Nationally Accredited unit of competency provides insight into the various requirements of collection of bodily fluids under the Australian Standards, the preparation of equipment, specimen collection methods via urine and/or oral and breath testing as well as specific chain of custody requirements. Training includes education on types and…

McLanahan - Maximum production, unwavering support

Where long shifts and physically demanding work are the norm, nutrition and hydration aren’t just important, they’re essential for safety and performance. Fatigue is a definite if miners (our industrial athletes) aren’t getting the fuel their bodies need to perform the physically taxing requirements of their on-site jobs. Body Armour is an Australian company specialising in evidence-based recovery formulas that assist with hydration, nutrition and even sleep. The products are specifically designed to equip the mining industry’s hard workers with what they need to conquer every day on the job. The power of quality sleep The feeling of slow cognitive function and lethargy on a mine site can be a serious risk to workers. Research tells us that insufficient rest…

Truflo Pumping Systems - Dependable mine dewatering systems

McLanahan - Maximum production, unwavering support

Are you fully compliant? Mining is one of the most heavily regulated industries for electrical safety. Unlike other industries, mining sites are legally required to test and tag electrical equipment every three months — and sometimes even more frequently based on risk assessments. With harsh conditions, constant equipment wear and strict compliance rules, electrical safety can’t be taken lightly. Failure to test properly can lead to equipment failure, compliance fines, or even worksite shutdowns. This applies to all mining operations, from open-pit and underground mines to processing plants and maintenance facilities. Many mine sites unknowingly fall short of AS/NZS 3012 standards due to: Incorrect test intervals or missing the required test tag colour rotations based on a safety audit Failing…

From the first survey of untouched ground to the final stages of land rehabilitation, engineers are the backbone of any mining operation. Their expertise shapes every stage of a mine’s life cycle, ensuring efficiency, safety and sustainability. Whether it’s a geotechnical engineer analysing rock stability; a civil engineer overseeing infrastructure from exploration to closure; or industrial, mechanical, mining and production engineers optimising operations, their contributions are critical to a mine’s success. As the mining industry faces increasing pressure to meet ESG standards, the role of engineers is evolving beyond traditional technical responsibilities. Today, engineers are not just problem-solvers but innovators, tasked with designing and implementing sustainable solutions that align with modern expectations. From integrating renewable energy into operations to advancing…

Queensland’s largest resource region is taking a pioneering step toward the future, linking its world-class coal industry with the rising tide of renewable energy. The Isaac region is a driving force in Australia’s economy, powering industries worldwide through its mining, agriculture and energy sectors. Home to 35 active coal mines, including major operations Olive Downs, Peak Downs, Goonyella, Broadmeadow, Grosvenor and Moranbah North, Isaac produces more than half of Queensland’s saleable coal. At the same time, the region is embracing the future, with 26 renewable energy projects in various stages of approval. Beyond mining, Isaac’s rich agricultural industry delivers high-quality beef, grains and seafood to domestic and international markets. Spanning 17 unique communities across vast landscapes, the region thrives on…

In February 2024, Newmont (ASX: NEM) announced its intention to divest its non-core assets, including six operations and two projects from its Australian, Ghanaian and North American business units. Throughout the year, Newmont executed this strategy, shedding non-core assets to concentrate solely on its Tier 1 assets. One such asset, Tanami, located 540km from Alice Springs in the Northern Territory, is exemplifying the benefits of these focused resources, as the mine undergoes an extensive expansion while remaining a stalwart gold producer. The Australian Mining Review speaks with Newmont Tanami general manager Justin De Meillon to get an inside look at how Tanami balances sustainable growth with roaring production in a high-price, high-pressure gold environment. Newmont Tanami strategic focus Newmont had…

One year after the reopening of New Hope Group’s New Acland coal mine, the Australian Mining Review takes a look at the rich history of the site and catches up with New Hope Group chief executive officer Rob Bishop to reflect and canvass projections for 2025 and beyond. Body copy: Located just north of Acland and Oakey in the famously lush pastoral Darling Downs region of Queensland lies New Hope Group’s New Acland mine, which has finally sprung back to life after a protracted approval process for its stage three iteration. The open cut coal mine — part of the Walloon Coal Measures, a late Jurassic geologic subgroup based in the Surat Basin that contains more than 500mt of coal…

Mining projects and operations are under constant pressure to deliver positive ESG outcomes. These requirements are set by a wide range of stakeholders, such as investors, local landowners, governments and broader communities. Improving ESG outcomes continues to drive mining companies and engineers to seek new solutions and innovations to overcome operational challenges, which include reducing energy consumption, emissions, water consumption, footprint and producing safe and stable rehabilitated land from tailings and waste. Leveraging deep technical expertise and a 30-year track record, Ausenco continues to pioneer innovative engineering and ESG practices across the world’s most challenging mineral processing and engineering projects. Ausenco brings a value-adding philosophy to all stages of project development, from consulting and early phase studies, through to project…

The Yandi mine, located 178km north-west of Newman in the Pilbara region of WA, is one of the five mining hubs comprising BHP’s (ASX: BHP) WA Iron Ore (WAIO) operations. Commencing production in 1992, Yandi became the second second WA-based iron ore mine to achieve 1bt of ore produced in its lifetime in 2017. Since then, the mine has begun ramp down activity. But the mine is still playing a pivotal role for BHP, especially on the way to net zero. BHP’s first entry into electrification In August 2024, BHP took a major step on its decarbonisation journey with the deployment of its first electric excavator to Yandi. Instead of a diesel engine, the R 9400 E Liebherr electric excavator…

Two is better than one for Aurelia Metals (ASX: AMI). To meet mounting copper demand amidst a global push for decarbonisation, the company is rapidly progressing the Federation Project, integrating it with the capable Peak Mine with the aims of producing 100,000-140,000t in FY25 and looking towards a full capacity operation in CY26. Leveraging its strong financial position and efficient approval process, the success of the Federation Project is a case study in attracting significant industry interest. Expedited timelines Following first discovery in 2019, the company, from the outset focused on rapid development. Aurelia Metals chief executive and managing director Bryan Quinn says the move from discovery, to studies, to exploration and permitting happened very quickly. Defying the norms of…

After 18 years in care and maintenance, the Dartbrook underground coal mine —located in the iconic Hunter Valley region of NSW — has seen a flurry of activity across the course of the last twelve months and is now set to ramp up production, under new owner Australian Pacific Coal (ASX: AQC) and its joint venture partner Tetra Resources. First opened in 1995 Dartbrook underground employs the bord and pillar mining method and was previously owned by Anglo Coal Australia. After humming along for over a decade, falling coal prices and operational problems saw it shuttered in 2006. Now under new ownership with the joint venture between AQC (80%) and Tetra (20%), the site is back up and running and…

The iconic Ulan Coal Complex, 100% owned and managed by Glencore, is celebrating its 100th anniversary, making it one of NSW’s longest running coal mining operations. The complex consists of two approved underground mining operations, Ulan Underground which commenced production in 1986 and Ulan West which commenced production in 2014 and an open cut coal reserve. Not only is Ulan long-lasting, but its contributions are widespread. The mine was responsible for an impressive 11.3mt of saleable coal in 2023, made possible by its 588-person workforce. While mine-life extension is a focus, Glencore is also looking at the years post-mining at Ulan, with significant rehabilitation efforts underway. The Australian Mining Review speaks with Glencore Ulan Coal Complex general manager Peter Ostermann…

With a 45-year history in the mining industry, Brooks has ramped up their services to facilitate Australia’s top end mining players Starting as Brooks Hire in 1979, Brooks has expanded to include divisions in Mining, Equipment Sales, Access, Site Services, Cranes, Transport, and Airways. The expansion has given Brooks the power to service Australian mining companies in every facet of the industry. XCMG Equipment Dealership In a major industry power move, Brooks Equipment Sales has entered an exclusive dealership agreement with the world’s third largest equipment manufacturer, XCMG. XCMG first caught the attention of Brooks Equipment Sales, when Managing Director, Stuart Brooks was looking for new mining products to offer his clients. When taking the dealership into consideration, Brooks wanted…

Bridging industry excellence with Indigenous leadership and innovation As Australia’s mining and construction sectors continue to evolve, NSR Indigenous stands out as a trailblazer, uniquely combining industry expertise with a strong commitment to Indigenous leadership and female empowerment. Established by Ashena O’Driscoll and Darian Rocci, the majority Indigenous and female-owned company has carved a distinct niche in providing top-tier vehicle and equipment rental services. With over 2,500 vehicles and pieces of equipment, including trucks, buses, excavators, loaders and graders, NSR Indigenous is poised to make a lasting impact on the Australian mining industry for years to come. A unique approach to industry solutions NSR Indigenous prides itself on being more than just a service provider — it’s a partner in…

United Forklift and Access Solutions is one of Australia’s largest providers of new and used forklifts and access equipment. Expanding on its fleet of forklifts, container handlers, scissor lifts, boom lifts and telehandlers, the company’s new electric tyre handler represents a major shift in electrification. The new machine – Konecranes tyre handler – was recently purchased by Fortescue, and is Australia’s first electric tyre handler, and potentially a world first. These purpose-built 17-tonne forklifts feature a tyre handling attachment with 8,500kg lifting capacity, specifically engineered to provide safe, precise, and reliable solutions for lifting, rotating, and shifting up to 8.5 tonne tyres. Developed by United, the new electric tyre handlers incorporate a suite of product enhancements and advanced safety systems.…

An unrestricted supply chain is the lifeline of every remote mining operation. Equipment, fuel, labour and materials are as critical on the way in as the movement of the mineral resource on the way out. Little wonder there’s an increasing focus on the maintenance of often lengthy gravel access roads at remote sites. Broons has the answer. Their range of towed compaction rollers have been the industry standard for well over 50 years and remain widely used in the construction and maintenance of gravel roads across the nation. Their industry leading 10-year structural warranty is without equal, such is the confidence they have in their products. Suitability, durability and reliability are hallmarks of a Broons roller. An Australian company to…

The recent floods in central and northern Queensland are a clear indication that climate change is a reality and, we need to be geared to deal with these crises. The devastation created by the floods has led Aussie Pumps to increase their production of their big 6” heavy duty trash pumps. Powered by 80 hp Deutz air cooled diesel engine, these pumps are built in Aussie’s factory warehouse complex in Sydney’s Norwest Business District. “These are the same pumps that have consistently saved the capital city of South Sudan from seasonal flooding over the last 3-4 years”, said Aussie Pumps Chief Engineer, John Hales. Those big 6” pumps, sometimes air freighted to South Sudan, have done a mighty job in…

Over the last five years, the Collaborative Consortium for Coarse Particle Processing Research has succeeded in bringing mining companies together to develop industry-leading technologies — now researchers at The University of Queensland’s Sustainable Minerals Institute are ready to welcome new partners and push innovation even further. To meet net zero climate targets, industry will have to produce approximately a billion tonnes of copper metal in the next 25 years (more than has been mined in all of human history), due to the metal’s crucial role in renewable energy generation, electric vehicles and efficient grid infrastructure. This means that business as usual is not an option and investment is needed in technologies that enable the processing of new copper deposits in…