Fortescue funds $152,000 in Pilbara community grants

Northern Star (ASX: NST) has selected Sandvik to supply Toro TH663i underground trucks and Toro LH621i and Toro LH517i intelligent loaders for its underground operations in WA.The i-series platforms offer advanced connectivity, real-time analytics, automation readiness and superior maintainability, enabling high payloads, lower operating cost per ton and safer work sites, according to Sandvik.Sandvik load and haul business line manager Andrew Dawson comments on the partnership.“We are proud to partner with Northern Star on this significant fleet investment,” he said.“This order underlines our commitment to delivering equipment and services that help our customers meet their productivity, safety and sustainability targets in underground operations.”The deal was confirmed in Q4 CY25 with deliveries expected to commence in Q1 CY26 and to continue throughout the year.

Construction has started on four key Western Power sites with planned upgrades that could double the capacity in some sections of the South West Interconnected System (SWIS).

Liontown Limited (ASX: LTR) has signed an offtake agreement for 150,000wmtpa of spodumene concentrate with world-leading lithium manufacturer Canmax Technologies.The agreement assures the supply of spodumene concentrate over 2027 and 2028 from Liontown’s Kathleen Valley project in WA.

Metso launches new grinding classification systemMetso has unveiled an innovative, configurable modular grinding classification system.The design consists of pumps, hydro-cyclones, product samplers, liquid resistance starters, particle size analysers, and mill lubrication units, which are easy to install and combine.The system, applicable for all types of grinding mills, is designed for maximised implementation efficiency while also reinforcing safety, quality and reliability in minerals processing.Metso grinding systems manager Jesse Ting comments on the new design.“Our customers get multiple benefits from this advanced system that integrates seamlessly into their operation and boosts the efficiency of their grinding systems,” he said.“Our pre-engineered modules are scalable for different mill types and classification stages, delivering exceptional performance with four times faster installation and more than 20% savings in overall cost compared to conventional solutions.“Each module is sized to match perfectly with standard 20ft or 40ft ISO shipping container dimensions, simplifying transport and installation. Safety is incorporated into every stage of the lifecycle, from installation to operation and maintenance.”The modules can be stacked, allowing for compact use of space, while the pre-engineered design eliminates the need for on-site modification and improves installation safety.