Category: Issues

Sandvik has launched its next-generation automated development drill rig, the DD423i, which offers 34.5% more drilling coverage than legacy models.Delivering 48% improved crosscut performance, the DD423i introduces new SB75i booms with double rollovers for superior reach in confined spaces, such as room and pillar applications. Automatic boom movements and integrated boom collision avoidance provide faster, safer and more precise drilling cycles.Sandvik development drills product manager Simon Morrissey says the introduction of the DD423i is an important milestone for Sandvik.“The DD422i set the benchmark for development drilling in 2015 and its success over the past decade has shaped the industry,” he said.“With the DD423i, we honour that legacy while delivering a future ready drill designed for even higher performance, automation and safety.”In field testing in Boliden, in the Skellefteå region of Sweden, the DD423i achieved over 95% machine availability, highlighting Sandvik’s commitment to robust and dependable equipment.“The Skellefteå region is known for its extremely hard and abrasive geological conditions,” Mr Morrissey said.“It is one of the toughest areas for rock drilling in Scandinavia and therefore provided the ideal testing conditions for the DD423i.”The redesigned cabin on the DD423i delivers a step forward in operator safety and comfort, offering 55% increased visibility, lower noise levels and improved dust control.Enhanced serviceability with easy access to key components supports quicker maintenance and reduces downtime while the advanced drilling control system provides fast and accurate performance with intuitive operation for all skill levels.The DD423i is fully compatible with Sandvik digital mining solutions, enabling a connected, data driven approach to development drilling.

Liebherr’s T 264 mining trucks are proving their reliability in one of WA’s most demanding environments, with a fleet now working at a Thiess-operated site in the Pilbara.With high temperatures, abrasive materials and demanding production schedules, mining in the Pilbara region presents a challenging environment.Thiess mining manager Kathryn Harrison says comments on the performance of the T 264s.“What we’re looking for in our machinery is that it can withstand those extremes of temperature, presence of dust, wet weather conditions, as well as hauling some serious dirt,” she says.That expectation is being met in day-to-day operations.Thiess maintenance manager Rob Sue says despite the conditions, the trucks have performed.“We can’t ask any more of the product than that,” he said.“The support from Perth has been phenomenal.”This partnership keeps trucks operating efficiently and reliably in one of the world’s toughest mining environments.

Weir has been awarded a contract to supply a 150tph crushing and screening plant for Bezant’s Hope and Gorob copper-gold project in Namibia.The order includes an ENDURON® ET905 jaw crusher; an ENDURON® ET906 jaw crusher, a Trio® TF4012 vibrating grizzly feeder, a Trio® EF3605 vibrating pan feeder, a Trio® TIOSP6162 scalping screen, conveyor belts and the supporting steel structure.Weir comminution director for Europe, Middle East and Africa JD Singleton comments on the contract.“There is obviously a lot of time, effort and resources that go into designing, developing and bringing to market new products,” he said.“The range of ENDURON® jaw crushers were developed in close collaboration with our customers, so we’ve been confident throughout the entire process that these crushers will help miners overcome some of their most pressing operational challenge.“Nevertheless, it’s rewarding to see this work come to fruition and crushers performing well in some of the most arduous crushing applications.“Today, miners are taking a more holistic view of their operations; rather than looking at pieces of equipment in isolation, they are increasingly considering how what happens upstream impacts what’s happening downstream, and vice versa. In other words, there’s more of a focus on optimising the entire flowsheet.“As an end-to-end solutions provider, Weir has long understood the value of this approach. We’ve worked closely with Bezant and its partners to develop a crushing and screening solution for Hope and Gorob project that optimises the entire flowsheets and enables them to meet their ambitious production targets."Weir recently launched its new range of ENDURON® jaw crushers, which have been developed to enhance safety, boost productivity, simplify maintenance and support its customers’ sustainability goals.The updated ENDURON® jaw crushers now feature a redesigned Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU), which allows for true push-button control of CSS adjustments. This new feature eliminates the need for manual intervention, significantly reducing safety risks for operators and maintenance teams.The new HPU also ensures consistent tensioning of the retraction springs at all times, improving reliability and ease of use across the full wear range of the jaw dies. The optimised motor power and oil tank capacity reduce the HPU’s carbon dioxide footprint and reduce environmental impact.Bezant technical director Martyn Churchouse says Weir’s service centre, located less than one hour from the mine site, significantly reduces project risk from a service and support perspective.“We recognise that crushing and screening plants require extensive maintenance, and having a hands-on partner who supports and stands behind their own equipment is essential to ensuring our success,” he said.

The Queensland Government is investing $500,000 to support the women in resources: empowering development (WIRED) pilot program.The program, delivered by the Queensland Resources Council (QRC), focuses on upskilling and reskilling women into advanced site-based roles to strengthen Queensland’s resources workforce and support more women into higher-skilled operator and technician roles across the state.The WIRED program will deliver targeted training for roles including machinery operators, plant technicians and site supervisors while supporting women transitioning into higher-level operator and technician roles.Early engagement across the sector has commenced, with the program expected to launch in mid-2026.Queensland Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Minister Ros Bates says the investment is about backing a sector that drives jobs and regional growth.“We are backing one of Queensland’s economic powerhouses by delivering the skilled workforce it needs to keep growing,” she said.“We are making sure women have clear, practical pathways into higher-skilled, higher-paid roles on site.“When you expand opportunities in a $44b industry, you strengthen the entire economy.”In the Australian resources sector, women now represent a larger portion of roles but there is still major room for growth with the percentage of women holding roles in the mining sector fluctuating between 22 – 23% since 2024, according to the Federal Government’s Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA).QRC chief executive Janette Hewson says WIRED is about enabling and retaining women in technician and operator roles to move into site-based leadership roles.“Our vision is an industry where women with technical skills have a clear pathway to more senior roles and can thrive in these roles long-term,” she said.“By supporting women who are working onsite, we create a workplace culture where everyone can thrive.”

Fortescue (ASX: FMG) has commenced construction at its largest solar development at the 440MW Solomon Airport solar farm in the Pilbara. Anticipated to be completed during 2028, the project is set to become the largest solar development in WA, with about 671,000 solar panels to be installed during the build and will supply about a third of Fortescue’s solar capacity required to achieve its net zero goals.  Fortescue metals and operations chief executive Dino Otranto says across the Pilbara, Fortescue is using the region’s sun and wind to generate green power for our sites. “We’re building the solar and wind farms, connecting them through our high-voltage transmission network and backing them with battery storage to provide 24/7 firm power,” he said. “Importantly, each successive solar project is being delivered more efficiently than the last. As technology improves and we gain scale, our installed capital intensity continues to come down — strengthening the economics of replacing diesel and gas with renewable energy.” A proposed 644MW solar farm at Turner River is also anticipated to commence construction later this year.  Together with the existing 100MW North Star Junction solar farm, the Solomon, Cloudbreak and Turner River projects will deliver about 1.3GW of solar capacity — equivalent to powering about half a million Australian homes each year. Construction is also underway at Fortescue’s 133MW Nullagine wind farm. Through Pilbara Energy Connect, Fortescue has already constructed more than 480km of high-voltage transmission lines across the Pilbara. Once complete, the network will extend to more than 620km, physically linking Fortescue’s energy assets to its operations and rail network.   

The NSW Resources Regulator has issued a safety alert following a truck rollover involving a Hitachi 3500 haul truck at Boggabri opencut coal mine.The roll occurred when the operator failed to comply with designated crest and ramp speeds while descending an in-pit ramp.The operator was wearing a seatbelt and was not injured, though they had to be extricated from the rolled truck.NSW Resource Regulator coal principal inspector Bill Barraclough says the hazards of not following site procedures when operating equipment in open-cut mines resulted in the roll over.“Following site procedures when operating equipment is crucial to keeping workers safe,” he said.The haul truck was recovered to allow truck monitoring systems to be downloaded, which identified the operator’s non-compliance to the site’s crest and ramp speed limits.Additional recommendations from the incident suggest mine operators conduct regular crest and ramp speed audits and review speed monitors.

WesTrac field service technician Leon Archibald was crowned runner-up in the Caterpillar Global Dealership Technician Challenge in the US.The global competition was first introduced in 2024 to recognise the critical role technicians play in keeping major industries operating, while also showcasing the world-class technical skills across Caterpillar’s global dealer network.Held over three days in Illinois, the challenge tested finalists through a series of high-pressure, real-world scenarios — requiring them to diagnose and repair complex mechanical faults under strict time limits.Mr Archibald, from WA, says the experience was both challenging and rewarding.“It’s been a long process, nearly two years, so to go through all that and get that result is amazing,” he said.“I didn’t think there’d be anything like this , you meet a lot more people and become more widely known.“It’s hard to explain the exact feeling of a podium finish, but it was great.”The result follows Mr Archibald’s standout performance at the semi-finals held in Spain last year, where he placed first against elite technicians from across Europe, Asia, the Americas and the Middle East, securing his spot in the final.Mr Archibald was supported by mentor Peter Bardwell, who helped prepare him for the intensity of the international competition.Mr Bardwell says Mr Archibald’s calm approach on the global stage was the key to his success.“Leon is extremely determined and his technical knowledge is by far the best I’ve seen,” he said.“He was able to shake off some minor things that didn’t quite go our way.“It was such a privilege for me to join him in his journey to success. He is truly deserving of this accomplishment.”WesTrac WA chief executive Jarvas Croome says the result was a proud moment for not only the company, but the state.“Leon’s achievement is an incredible proud moment for WesTrac,” he said.“Standing among the world’s best technicians is no small feat and Leon’s success is a testament to his skill and a powerful example of what investment in our people looks like.”

Metso achieves certification ahead of schedule Metso has achieved the internationally recognised ISO 27001 certification for its information security management system (ISMS), marking a significant milestone in the company’s cybersecurity capabilities.The certification was awarded to Metso IT ahead of the original Q2 CY2026 target, demonstrating the company’s strong commitment to protecting information assets and meeting rising customer and regulatory expectations.ISO 27001 provides a globally accepted framework for managing information security risks and ensuring the confidentiality, integrity and availability of data. By meeting the standard, Metso confirms that its security processes and controls are systematically designed, implemented and continuously improved to meet international best practices.Metso IT risk and compliance director Janne Mennala says achieving this certification signals credibility and discipline, but it is only the beginning of a continuous improvement journey.“With our ISMS now aligned with ISO 27001, our security practices are more transparent and easier to demonstrate to partners and customers,” he said.The certification covers Metso IT’s global functions and strengthens the basis for further security development within the company’s business segments.Throughout the certification process, Metso worked in close partnership with Cyberismo, a Finnish cybersecurity company and long-standing expert partner. Their support has been instrumental in ensuring that Metso’s ISMS aligns with industry best practices and future requirements.“We are truly proud of what we have achieved together. The success confirmed that we have been moving in the right direction for much longer than this project alone,” said Mr Mennala.

Volunteers keep WA trail in top shape  A team from Alcoa Australia’s (ASX: AAI) Willowdale bauxite mine recently lent a hand to refresh a section of the iconic Munda Biddi Trail in WA. Stretching more than 1060km from Mundaring to Albany, the Munda Biddi is a world-class long-distance off-road cycling trail.  Senior community relations advisor Scott Hansen says Alcoa Australia has proudly supported the Munda Biddi Trail Foundation (MBTF) for 25 years through funding and employee volunteering. “Alcoa has a long-running partnership with the foundation, a not-for-profit association which supports the maintenance and promotion of the trail,” he said. Recently, employees rolled up their sleeves to clean up a section of the trail near the northern part of Alcoa Australia’s Willowdale Larego mine area. Their efforts included branch trimming, raking and blower vaccing to ensure the trail remains safe and accessible for riders. “Our employees are proud to help maintain this popular trail,” Mr Hansen said.“It’s a great way to give back to the community and keep the trail safe and functional for cyclists.” Alcoa Australia’s involvement with the trail dates back to its planning in 2000, when the company worked with the foundation to determine a safe, practical and enjoyable route and provide on-the-ground help to make the trail a reality.Since then, Alcoa Australia has continued to consider the trail through mine planning processes, including the recent expansion of a Mining Avoidance Zone (MAZ) around Dwellingup. The expanded MAZ is adjacent to several designated conservation areas and includes recreational tracks and trails, including sections of the Munda Biddi Trail, Bibbulmun Track and Nyingarn Bidi Loop. If future mine planning indicates any interactions with the trail, Mr Hansen says Alcoa consults with the MBTF and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions to discuss options that ensure access is not restricted.Past consultation has resulted in Alcoa Australia building dedicated infrastructure such as tunnels and bridges to provide safe, continuous access for riders through operating mine regions. “Our overarching principle is to maintain continuous access for trail users and we want to ensure this world-class trail remains available for generations to come,” Mr Hansen said.MBTF executive officer Therese Logue says the trail’s ongoing success is founded on strong collaboration across both community and corporate sectors, including a longstanding 25-year partnership with Alcoa Australia. “The continued support of Alcoa extends beyond industry operations, with staff actively contributing their time and skills,” she said. “Their hands-on involvement builds a sense of stewardship, directly helping to preserve this iconic trail. “Through partnerships like these, the trail will continue to flourish, and the provision of vital resources help the foundation empower its volunteers to enhance and maintain a high-quality trail experience for all riders.”  

WA Government supports renewables growth Ngarluma Aboriginal Corporation (NAC) are collaborating with Perdaman and the WA Government to establish a 50MW solar farm at the Ngarluma green energy park on NAC's native title determination south of Karratha.The WA Government will provide $2.7m in initial support to NAC to undertake surveys, approvals works and technical activities over the next 12 months that will lead to the activation of the first park.The Burrup (Murujuga) corridor is one of four priority corridors under the WA Government's Pilbara energy transition plan to accelerate the decarbonisation of heavy industry in the region by connecting industry with renewable energy generation.Ngarluma Country includes the coastal towns Karratha, Roebourne, Wickham, Point Samson and out to Whim Creek and is home of much of the Pilbara's industry including Rio Tinto (ASX: RIO), Dampier Salt, Woodside, Yara and Perdaman.NAC is targeting 5GW of development in its green energy parks while also creating employment, training and long-term income for the Ngarluma people.WA Energy and Decarbonisation Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson says creating jobs through the Pilbara energy transition plan is a key part to making WA a renewable energy powerhouse."Supporting NAC and Perdaman in this landmark partnership is another step in decarbonising the Pilbara and realising the considerable benefits of the region's renewable energy resources,” she said.The solar farm will feed into the common-use Maitland-Karratha-Burrup transmission corridor and aid the activation of the Maitland strategic industrial area.NAC and Ngarluma green energy director Belinda Churnside says the Ngarluma people are proud to be leaders in the development of the energy transition.“Ngarluma green energy parks will be a game changer for the fast and straight forward development of large-scale renewable projects,” she said.The green energy park is expected to be activated through the connection of the solar farm to Perdaman's project Ceres urea plant by mid-end of 2027.Drive to make WA renewable energy powerhouse continues with Warradarge wind farm expansion, with four of 30 additional turbines being erected at the site.Once completed, the expanded Warradarge wind farm will provide up to 283MW of clean energy — enough to power approximately about households — making it WA's largest wind farm both by capacity and energy generated.The expansion is part of the WA Government’s goal to exit from state-owned coal-fired power by 2030."Wind turbines going up as part of the expansion is our renewable energy transformation taking shape, delivering jobs, economic diversification and clean energy,” Minister Sanderson said." will deliver more renewable energy for households and businesses, while work to expand the South West Interconnected System (SWIS) transmission grid will unlock more renewable energy from the mid-west."

Metso acquires MRA Automation Metso has acquired MRA Automation, a leading provider of automation and digitalisation technology solutions for ports and terminals worldwide.The privately owned engineering company based in NSW specialises in providing engineering, automation and software solutions for bulk material handling operators. Its offerings combine proprietary smart automation services with Axo33 Smart Software products.Metso stands at the forefront of the bulk material handling industry, backed by more than a century of expertise and more than 8000 bulk handling installations and, as a result of this acquisition, customers will benefit from integrated end-to-end solutions and advanced technologies designed to enhance efficiency, safety and support throughout every stage of bulk material handling operations.Metso grinding, bulk, pyro and smelting services senior vice president Jonathan Allen says MRA complements Metso’s electrical and control system capabilities, acquired in 2023, extremely well.“We are excited to welcome our new colleagues to Metso. Their expertise and innovative approach to stockyard equipment align seamlessly with our ambition for growth in bulk and port solutions,” he said.“With MRA’s advanced software platform and services, we are expanding our offering to serve bulk and port customers, strengthening our presence in important Australian markets and accelerating our global reach.”MRA Automation managing director Rodney Devetak says the company is excited to join Metso.“This acquisition not only strengthens the value for customers worldwide but also creates opportunities for our team to grow and contribute within a world-class organisation," he said.